The holy memory of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Mark, and founder of the Second-throne Patriarchate, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Ancient Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa.
St. Mark came to Egypt after the martyrdom of his companion, Apostle Barnabas, in Salamis, Cyprus. He began his preaching in Alexandria and he first baptized Anianus, who became his successor on the Episcopal Throne.
According to historical testimonies, during Mark’s second visit to Alexandria in 63 AD. on Easter day he was arrested and subjected to horrific torture.
He wrote the Holy Gospel that bears his name. There were sacred temples in his honor both in Alexandria and in Cairo. The Patriarchal Offices of Cairo were housed there for a number of years.
In the courtyard of this temple, Saint Nektarios built huts to accommodate the poor and those in need. Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa, honoring the great feast of his first Holy predecessor, officiated at the Great Vespers, Orthros and the Divine Liturgy that were held at the Patriarchal Church of St. Nicholas in Cairo.
Source: ekkairo.org
