By the grace of God, the first day of the New Year has dawned. In Tanzania and in the Holy Metropolis of Arusha, the New Year did not find hearts focused merely on the passing of time, but above all turned toward the Person of Christ, from Whom every hope and blessing flows.
The day began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at the Holy Church of Saint Basil the Great in Nyamihu. From the early hours, a multitude of faithful—people of all ages, families, youth, and children—gathered in the church to be sanctified at the beginning of the New Year through their participation in the Mystery of the Holy Eucharist.
At Matins and the Divine Liturgy presided His Eminence the Metropolitan of Arusha, Agathonikos, shepherd of the local Church, who with paternal words and spiritual affection blessed his flock.
Following the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, the joy continued with the offering of a communal meal to all those present, graciously provided by Mr. Christos Rousogiannis, for the health of his family. At the same time, parcels of love containing food were distributed to families, while students received gifts and sweets, filling their faces with smiles and their hearts with joy. These were small acts with great meaning, bearing witness that faith is accompanied by works of love.
With such images, the New Year 2026 began in Tanzania: with prayer, thanksgiving, offering, and hope. We wholeheartedly pray that God may bless the pastoral and philanthropic work of the Holy Metropolis of Arusha, strengthen all those who labor for it, and render the New Year fruitful and peaceful. May the Holy Name and the Grace of our Lord be spread to every corner of Africa, guiding our African brethren on the path of salvation.
