Concerning Dionysios Batistatos, Theologian

 

When I bring him to mind, his figure appears—gentle, noble, always full of joy, a presence that attracted others by his mere being. The ever-memorable Metropolitan Cyprian held him in deep esteem, and would often ask him to speak in church and at other gatherings. His speech was always full of grace, very lively, and very authentic, touching both the educated and the unlettered faithful alike. He was one of those genuine and guileless Greeks who once abounded in this land, but who have now become a rare species—a true gentleman in conduct, in speech, in bearing. I also know that Saint Chrysostomos of Florina was deeply saddened when Mr. Dionysios finally decided to marry, for he desired him to become a bishop and possibly his successor, seeing in him the same spirit of anguish and self-sacrifice for our genuine Orthodoxy, as well as his discretion and humility. The loss of the possibility that Mr. Batistatos become a bishop is also one of the reasons why St. Chrysostomos eventually reposed without ordaining a successor. The ever-memorable Mr. Dionysios, like St. Chrysostomos, endured many sorrows from the extreme Old Calendarists, as well as distress from the disputes that unfortunately often characterize us, yet he always strove to remain a friend to all and to offer his services, through the word of God, to everyone.

He had a special relationship with his sister according to the flesh, Gerontissa Vryaini, and I would often encounter him, along with other theologian friends he would bring there, at her monastery when I was serving there. She was the link with their uncle, Elder Joseph the Cave-dweller, for it was with her that the Elder corresponded, and she kept his many letters as a treasure, and of course strove to apply his counsels in her life. It was truly a special joy to behold those two dedicated souls together!

The ever-memorable Mr. Dionysios, according to his will, was buried in his homeland, at the ascetic monastery of the Holy Theodores in Paros, and I remember again, from my visits there, the humble and unadorned grave where he rests until the common resurrection. I therefore rejoice that the remembrance is being made of the many labors he undertook for our struggle, and I pray that he may enjoy from God the reward in eternal life!

Eternal be his memory!

† Ambrose of Methone

 

Greek source: Τιμητικός Τόμος Διονυσίου Μ. Μπατιστάτου, Athens, 2024, pp. 6-7.