US State Department voices support for the Ecumenical Patriarchate
A State Department representative, during a dinner in honor of the Ecumenical Patriarch, assured that the United States will defend religious freedom.
On September 16, 2025, US Deputy Secretary of State Michael J. Rigas, speaking at a dinner in Washington organized in honor of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, reiterated the firm support of the American government for the Patriarchate, Orthodox Times reports.
Continuing his Apostolic Visit to the United States, Patriarch Bartholomew addressed diplomats, ambassadors, clergy, and public figures, warning about the dangers of nationalism in religion. He stressed that the Church must not reinforce political or national boundaries, but that its mission is to unite people through dialogue and mutual respect. “As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we are called to pursue the Kingdom of God, not any kingdom of man, no matter how inviting,” the Patriarch said.
Bartholomew also noted that the Ecumenical Patriarchate is a spiritual institution standing above national interests. He urged religious leaders to create space for dialogue and reconciliation. “All the religions of the world teach the value of every human person. We have been confronted by the need to practice acceptance over rejection,” the Patriarch added, recalling the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and its message of human unity.
In response, Deputy Secretary of State Michael Rigas called religious freedom “the first freedom,” enshrined in American history and the Constitution. He praised the Ecumenical Patriarch as a spiritual leader and partner of the United States in advancing religious freedom worldwide. “Religious freedom is not a privilege, but a universal right. The United States will remain steadfast in confronting threats through diplomacy and international partnerships,” he said.
Rigas concluded, addressing the Ecumenical Patriarch directly: “As the good book says, blessed are the peacemakers. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you to advance the cause of religious freedom and the cause of peace in the world.”
The meeting was also attended by Archbishop Elpidophoros, hierarchs of the Orthodox Church in the United States, ambassadors, and public figures. Concluding his address, Patriarch Bartholomew gave a blessing: “May God bless you richly, and may God bless America.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that at the White House Patriarch Bartholomew praised Donald Trump for his efforts toward peace in Ukraine.
