On August 18, 2025, a significant gathering took place at the «Esperides» Center in Molai, marking the annual reunion of the Holy Metropolis of Monemvasia and Sparta with the Greek diaspora. The event was characterized by a warm atmosphere and a high level of participation from attendees.
The evening commenced with a welcoming address by the Archpriest of Molai, Father Panagiotis Legakis, who praised the diaspora for their dedication to their homeland, their commitment to preserving cultural traditions, and their unwavering willingness to contribute to their communities.
Following this, His Eminence Metropolitan Efstathios delivered an emotionally charged speech, expressing his joy as a spiritual father in welcoming the expatriates each year. He emphasized the strong bond between the diaspora and their Motherland, as well as the significant contributions of expatriates to charitable works benefiting those in need. He encouraged attendees to continue their journey in virtue, hard work, and the preservation of Greek Christian ideals.
The event also featured greetings from notable figures, including the Honorary Consul General of Greece in Milan, Mr. Nikolaos Sakkaris; the Mayor of Monemvasia, Mr. Iraklis Trichilis; the Member of Parliament for Laconia, Mr. Neoklis Kritikos; and the Deputy Regional Governor of Laconia, Mr. Theodoros Veroutis.
An informative session was presented by Ms. Vasiliki Nestor, a representative from the General Secretariat of the Ministry of Interior, who discussed the newly simplified procedures for obtaining Greek citizenship. She encouraged those in attendance who do not yet hold Greek citizenship to pursue the process, highlighting the numerous benefits for both the homeland and the individuals involved.
During the evening, the esteemed Metropolitan awarded a certificate of honor to Mr. Georgios Marafatsos, former President and current Director of Projects for the Pan-Laconian Federation of the USA and Canada, recognizing his years of service to the local Church. Additionally, the Pan-Laconian Federation presented a commemorative plaque for a generous donation of $170,000 towards the construction of the Church of Saint Ananias in Sparta.
In a heartfelt speech, Mr. Marafatsos expressed his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the contributions of expatriates stem from their love for their homeland and the Church. He notably acknowledged the Metropolitan’s extensive spiritual, philanthropic, and social work.
Furthermore, Mr. Kopitas, representing the Epidaurus Limirites Association of Montreal, Canada, donated $10,000. The Metropolitan expressed his sincere thanks for this contribution and reciprocated with a handmade icon of Saint Ananias as a blessing.
The evening concluded with an exceptional dance program dedicated to the Aegean islands, performed by the Molai Music and Dance Group «The Mills,» under the direction of Ms. Fani Kolliakou. The festivities continued with traditional music performed by a talented orchestra, featuring artists such as Adamantia Kirkis and Theodoros Skagkos. Many expatriates participated in traditional dances, showcasing their joy for the reunion.
His Eminence made rounds at each table, exchanging well wishes and offering spiritual gifts to attendees, further enriching the sense of community and connection among all present.
