The 88-year-old priest Christos Pappas from Alykos of Agioi Saranda, who was ordained a clergyman in 1991 by Archbishop Anastasios, who was then still Patriarchal Exarch, was recently ordained a protopresbyter by Metropolitan Nathanael of Gjirokastër.

Thus, his contribution was recognized not only during his 35 years of priesthood, but also his defense as a layman, at the risk of his life, of Orthodoxy during the years of atheistic persecution, when he made and distributed crosses with every precaution. And from within him a voice gushed: Do not weep in pain, Despina Panagia, hope always remains, Despina Panagia. Again a thousand lamps will light, again lips will chant reverently.

Tyranny passed, but the spark of faith in God within his soul did not go out, despite the terrible persecutions, which is why his priestly path is full of light and humility.

A short time ago, we met in the hospital where he was being treated, as he was facing a health problem, and despite his exhaustion, we felt that his gaze was permeated by the longing to constantly work and, through prayer, to magnify the hope of faith for everyone.

His soul is always filled with awe of God, but also of his own duty, and he feels that the boundaries of good and evil are not found in the differences between people, but within our hearts.

Father Christos, during the atheism in Albania, when he was not a priest, lived early Christian years. Unrepeatable experiences. Living miracles. Inconceivable realities.

Now as a priest he again lives this grace Of god and takes care to use and transmit it.

And the venerable levite, moved to tears, urges everyone to keep their faith and their conscience free.