Patriarch Bartholomew discusses modern challenges with head of Greek Church
Patriarch Bartholomew called the See of Constantinople a “stable point of reference” in a time of crisis.
On May 5, 2026, a meeting took place at the residence of the Archdiocese of Athens between Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Greece, Archbishop Ieronymos. The parties focused on issues of Orthodox unity and the search for responses to international challenges and uncertainty, UOJ in Greece reports.
Archbishop Ieronymos called the presence of the head of the Phanar “a special blessing” and emphasized the inseparable bond between the Church of Greece and the Patriarchate of Constantinople.
In his response, Patriarch Bartholomew noted that over the years a relationship had developed between them in which they “support one another.” The head of the Phanar also emphasized the role of the See of Constantinople as a stable point of reference and source of spiritual guidance, especially amid international challenges and uncertainty, stressing the need for dialogue, cooperation, and hope.
An important point of the conversation was the Patriarch’s plans to restore liturgical life in historic regions. He said he was awaiting official approval for the reopening of religious sites in Cappadocia – a place where Greek Orthodoxy once flourished.
After the official meeting, the hierarchs visited Athens City Hall, where Patriarch Bartholomew received an award for his contribution to the “protection of environmental heritage.”
As the UOJ previously reported, Patriarch Bartholomew delivered an address in the Greek parliament.
