May 5th is a day of celebration and remembrance for the Cyprus Police, honoring their patron saint, Saint Irene. It symbolizes the core values of faith, bravery, and courage, essential for their mission of ensuring security and protecting citizens. The day also pays tribute to fallen and missing officers who served during historical conflicts and in times of peace.
What is the significance of May 5th for the Cyprus Police?
May 5th is a day of celebration and remembrance for the Cyprus Police, honoring their patron saint, Saint Irene. It symbolizes the core values of faith, bravery, and courage, essential for their mission of ensuring security and protecting citizens. The day also pays tribute to fallen and missing officers who served during historical conflicts and in times of peace.
May 5th marks a significant day in the calendar for the Cyprus Police, as it is dedicated to their patron saint, Saint Irene. This day is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection and remembrance.
The Significance of Saint Irene
For the believers, and most notably the members of the Police, the example of Saint Irene is a source of inspiration and strength. The day carries a profound symbolism, resonating with the core values of the police force. These values include faith, bravery, and courage, all of which are vital to the police’s primary mission—safeguarding security and protecting the citizens.
A Day of Remembrance and Honor
Every year on May 5th, the Cyprus Police also pay tribute to those who dedicated their lives in service during tumultuous periods. It’s a day to honor the memory of the missing and fallen police officers who served during the critical moments of the inter-communal disturbances in the 1960s and the tragic events of the 1974 coup and Turkish invasion. The day also serves to remember police officers and firefighters who lost their lives on duty in times of peace.
Solemn Ceremony at Police Headquarters
This year, on May 10th, 2024, the Cyprus Police observed their patron saint’s day with a solemn ceremony at the Police Headquarters. Distinguished guests, including the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, and other high-ranking officials, were present to pay their respects. The Archbishop of Cyprus participated in laying a wreath at the Monument of Fallen Police Officers and Firefighters and led a minute of silence in their honor.
Prayers and Memorials
The ceremony included prayers for the missing and a memorial prayer for the fallen heroes. The reading of the Invitation for Fallen and Missing Police Officers and Firefighters was another poignant moment of the event.
Addresses by Dignitaries
In his address, the President of the Republic hailed the Cyprus Police for their unwavering commitment to the safety of the country and assured continued governmental support. The Chief of Police emphasized the ongoing work to maintain a police force that not only ensures citizen safety but also enhances their quality of life. He highlighted the importance of the force as a pillar of social stability and cohesion.
The Unwavering Mission of the Police
The Cyprus Police remain steadfast in their mission, striving for excellence in protecting and serving the community. This occasion serves as a reminder of their dutiful commitment to the nation and the high esteem in which they hold their values and responsibilities.
On May 5th, the Cyprus Police celebrate and remember their patron saint, Saint Irene, who represents important values like faith, bravery, and courage. They also honor fallen and missing officers who served during conflicts and in times of peace. This year, a solemn ceremony was held at the Police Headquarters with dignitaries paying their respects and prayers and memorials for those who sacrificed for the country. Leaders praised the police force for their commitment to safety and serving the community, highlighting their role in maintaining social stability and cohesion. The event serves as a reminder of the police’s dedication to protecting and serving the nation.
