Dear readers, like many in the Metro Vancouver Greek community, I woke this morning to learn the news that our spiritual Father had passed away. Below is my tribute.
In the grand tapestry of life, where each thread has its purpose and place, Father Demitrios Partsafas was more than just a presence; he was a guiding light. Every interaction, every lesson, and every gesture from him wove intricate patterns of love, faith, and understanding in our cherished Greek community.
“A single thread in a tapestry, though its colour brightly shines, can never see its purpose in the pattern of the grand design.”
He arrived in Vancouver from Montreal in 1974 and swiftly became the beacon of hope, love, and guidance to the Greek community and its cherished St. George's Church. As its parish priest for four decades, Father Partsafas gave not just his service but his very essence to ensure the spiritual wellbeing of everyone he met.
I was a young girl of seven when our paths first crossed. The circumstances were somber; he was officiating the funeral of my paternal grandmother, Aglaia.
Throughout the years, his guidance and friendship was steadfast. As I delved into studying the 'Bible as Literature' at UBC, Father Partsafas generously shared "The Rudder" with me. This monumental black tome, a compendium of Orthodox Canon law, became the basis for numerous enlightening discussions. Curiously, and with a hunger for knowledge, I'd question the reasoning behind certain rulings. And every time, with that characteristic twinkle in his eye and a wry sense of humor, Father Partsafas would provide clarity, guiding my thoughts and perspectives back to a place of understanding and respect.
This tome not only deepened my academic pursuits but also inspired personal projects, like an art collage I crafted from one of his smaller paperback books on Orthodox marriage — a heartfelt gift for my parents on a milestone wedding anniversary.
His wisdom was not limited to theological discussions alone. During our Sunday school planning meetings in his office, he fostered an atmosphere brimming with laughter and animated chatter, much to the playful dismay of the Greek school teachers holding lessons simultaneously in the adjacent church hall. In every interaction, he combined depth with lightheartedness, making faith both a profound and joyous journey.
He watched as I grew, teaching Sunday school and, in time, under his gentle gaze and blessings, I said my vows in 2002. Noting my then-husband's French first name, in a gesture that showcased his spirit, Father Partsafas, recited our wedding vows in three languages: English, French, and Greek.
“And the stone that sits upon the very top of the mountain's mighty face doesn't think it's more important than the stones that form the base.”
Father Partsafas lived this truth. He guided us through both sorrow and laughter. In October 2000, when my father, Nicolas, had his prayer service on Halloween, with neighbourhood children gleefully singing "trick or treat" nearby, Father remarked with a chuckle that Nicolas would have enjoyed this whimsical blend of the solemn and the playful, the mockery of death amidst a festival of ghouls. And during the fierce snowstorm in November 2006, when the grounds of Forest Lawn froze and my mother, Evangelia, in her Sunday best, spent the night under the church's roof, he consoled us, remarking that her prayers had been answered. She had the privilege to fall asleep under the watchful eyes of Saints and Seraphim.
Beyond spiritual guidance, he had a vision for my potential role within the community. Father Partsafas constantly encouraged my participation and leadership. With his endorsement, I became involved with the Hellenic Congress of BC, putting in considerable efforts for the fundraising surrounding the Hellenic Chair at SFU. And it didn't stop there. He encouraged my pursuit as one of the youngest female board members for the Hellenic Community.
After relocating to Victoria BC post-marriage, he again urged me to immerse myself in local service, suggesting I join the Philoptochos (the Women's Auxiliary). His belief in me was unwavering; he recommended I teach Greek and Sunday school, and further cement my role by serving as a board member for the Victoria and Vancouver Island Greek Community.
“So how can you see what your life is worth or where your value lies? You can never see through the eyes of man; you must look at your life through heaven's eyes.”*
In the divine design of life, Father Partsafas was a beacon, helping us see our worth not through earthly eyes but through heaven's perspective. His legacy isn't just of ceremonies and teachings but of love, compassion, and community.
In celebrating his life, we celebrate each thread, each stone, and every soul he touched. His legacy is a vibrant part of our tapestry, forever shining in its divine design.
Rest in peace, dear Father. Through heaven's eyes, your brilliance will always shine.
*Lyrics from the Prince of Egypt -Through Heaven’s Eyes
His memory lives on in each of us.