Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis sent a message of optimism from Tinos in his statement after the end of the Dormition celebrations.
"The 15th of August is a day associated with optimism and hope, and we, as Greeks have every reason to be optimistic about the future," said the prime minister.
He noted, "Despite our difficulties, the country has overcome more than ten crises and has every right to look to the future with greater optimism and hope, words that are identified with today's great celebration."
The premier made a particular reference to the Armed Forces "to them and to those who make sure that we are all safe and gave their lives in the unequal battle with the fiery blaze," stressing that "they always know the state will be close to them and will support them".
Mr Mitsotakis noted that "I especially wanted today to be in Tinos 200 years after the discovery of the miraculous icon"
While concluding his statement, he wished "to all the celebrants as well as to my wife who is also celebrating, many well wishes. Many well wishes to every Greek wherever they are. Today all Hellenism and all Orthodoxy are celebrating".
In the litany of the holy icon
Mitsotakis followed the litany of the holy icon of the Virgin together with the metropolitans of Syros - Tinos Dorotheos, Pavlos of Servia and Kozani, Serres and Nigritis Theologos, Corfu Paxos and Diapontian Islands Nektarios.
The Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, is also present at the celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, accompanied by the head of the General Defence Forces, General Konstantinos Floros. In contrast, the Prime Minister is accompanied by his daughter Daphni.
The prime minister received the miraculous icon from the Metropolitan of Syros - Tinos Dorotheos and carried it to the church's exit.
Ο Έλληνας πρωθυπουργός με την εικόνα της Μεγαλόχαρης στα χέρια του στην επέτειο των 200 χρόνων από την εύρεση της. Χρόνια Πολλά σε όλους. Καλό Δεκαπενταύγουστο. pic.twitter.com/KLWssC1NXO
— Nikos Michael (@NikosMichael6) August 15, 2023
See photos from the celebrations in Tinos:
READ MORE: Dormition of the Theotokos: Athens is a deserted city - Empty streets and few tourists.
