Phanar head praises Turkish and Greek authorities for "happy rapprochement"
Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. Photo: Screenshot from Facebook video ecumenicalpatriarchate
Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, during a speech in the community hall of the Church of the Archangels in the Turkish town of Arnavutköy, spoke about the warming of Greek-Turkish relations. A video of his speech was posted on the Ecumenical Patriarchate's Facebook page on November 8.
In his address, Patriarch Bartholomew expressed his deep appreciation for the efforts of both governments to strengthen ties between the two nations, especially during times of international crises. "We are grateful to all who contribute to this happy rapprochement of two neighboring, friendly, and allied countries with so much in common," he said.
The head of the Phanar considers "the leaders of these commendable efforts to be, of course, the esteemed President of the Republic of Turkey and the Prime Minister of Greece, with both peoples gladly following their example."
Patriarch Bartholomew is convinced that both leaders "believe this rapprochement and cooperation can bring only positive outcomes for both countries and the entire region."
In his view, friendship and cooperation between Greece and Turkey are crucial for peace and stability in the region.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Patriarch Bartholomew praised the UGCC for being "with its people".
Read also
Pilgrim group from Kyiv Theological Seminary visits Mount Athos
KTS students are making a pilgrimage to the holy sites of Romania, Greece, Mount Athos and Italy.
UOC cathedral celebrates its patronal feast in Ternopil
The service in the cathedral of the Holy Martyrs Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia was led by Metropolitan Serhii of Ternopil, concelebrated by four hierarchs.
MinCulture marks centenary of Soviet-era reserve at Lavra's Refectory Church
Representatives of the Ministry of Culture presented awards to the Reserve's employees on the occasion of the anniversary at the Refectory Church of the Lavra.
Conference to mark 1700th anniversary of Christianity adoption held in Georgia
In Georgia, representatives of the Church and the state noted the defining role of Christianity in the country's cultural development.
MP urges to ease pressure on UOC for sake of peace
Oleksii Honcharenko proposed compromises on language, historical memory, and Church issues as part of efforts to achieve peace, saying those who wish to attend the “Russian Church” should be allowed to do so.
Court takes 17th-century church in Staryi Pochaiv from UOC community
A commercial court overturned a 2018 registrar’s decision and stripped the UOC’s Ternopil Eparchy of ownership of the 17th-century church.