Submitted by Val Hiscock on
Grand Prior Chev. Antonios K. Kourkoumelis-Kothris GCLJ-J and other senior members of the Hellenic Grand Priory have travelled to visit several other jurisdictions in recent months. We participated in the celebrations for the 800th anniversary of the Order of Saint Lazarus in Gotha, Germany, and attended the double Jubilee and Investiture Ceremonies Vienna 2023, marking 50 years of the Grand Bailiwick of Austria and 20 years of the Hereditary Commandery of Sighartstein. The Grand Prior also attended the Grand Prioral Council of the Grand Priory of America, and the ceremonies that followed, in Tampa, Florida.
On October 30, at the premises of the Association of Athenians, the Hellenic Grand Priory organized the presentation of a book by our Brother, Chev. George Schoinas, KCLJ, "A Manual of Heraldic Art and Armory", Τhe history, rules and evolution of heraldic insignia, from the early middle ages to today, in collaboration with the Heraldic and Genealogical Society of Greece. The editing of the book was undertaken by the Hellenic Grand Priory.
On December 1-2 in Athens, the annual Saint Lazarus Days of the Hellenic Grand Priory took place. This year's celebrations were honoured by the presence of the Grand Master H.E. Chevalier Francisco de Borbon Graf von Hardenberg GCLJ-J..
At the "Αριστείον" Αwarding Ceremony, the following bodies and individuals were awarded with the “Αριστείον”, the highest distinction of the Hellenic Grand Priory:
- The Museum of “Dionysios Solomos and eminent people of Zakynthos. (Dionysios Solomos is our National Poet and writer of the Greek National Anthem.)
- Dr Anastasia Samara-Krispi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Foundation of Professor Elias Krispis and Dr Anastasia Samara-Krispi for International Legal Studies
- Professor Emeritus of the University of Athens, and internationally recognised poet and essayist Mr. Nasos Vegenas.
- Entrepreneur and philanthropist, Mr. Constantinos Sakellarios.
Following an Investiture Ceremony for six new postulants and the presentation of promotions and awards to our members, a Gala Dinner was held, in the presence of. The Grand Master, attended by our members, their families and friends and guests from Germany, Austria and Malta.
In the words of the Grand Master:
"Thank you Grand Priory of Greece for a successful Investiture weekend and everything you do for the Order of St Lazarus".