Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew is currently on an official visit to Athens, where he is set to address the Greek Parliament for the first time in 27 years, marking a significant moment in his long-standing ecclesiastical and diplomatic presence.

His previous address to the parliament took place in 1999.

High-Level Meetings and Official Reception in Athens

The Patriarch arrived in Athens on Monday, 4 May, where he began his visit with a meeting at the Archbishopric of Athens and a discussion with the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece. He was also honored by the City of Athens in a formal ceremony recognizing his contribution to environmental protection.

The program continues with a series of official engagements during his stay in the Greek capital.

Historic Parliamentary Address

The highlight of the visit will take place at 13:00 local time during a special session of the Greek Parliament’s plenary. The session was convened following an invitation by the Speaker of Parliament and will be held in the presence of the President of the Republic.

Following his address, the Speaker of Parliament is expected to award Patriarch Bartholomew the institution’s Gold Medal of Honor. An official luncheon will also be held in his honor after the session.

Symbolic Moment Amid Global Challenges

The Patriarch’s speech comes at a time of international instability, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, adding further significance to his address in the national legislature.

This year also marks 35 years since Patriarch Bartholomew assumed his ecclesiastical leadership role, as well as 65 years of priestly service.