The plenary of the Hellenic Parliament hold a historic special session, as the Ecumenical Patriarch delivered his address before the national assembly.

His presence follows an invitation by the Speaker of Parliament, Nikitas Kaklamanis, while his previous speech before the Greek Parliament dates back to 1999.

The session, of major historical significance, was held in the presence of the President of the Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas.

Amid a difficult international climate—due to the crisis in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine—the Patriarch’s speech carries even greater weight.

Following his introductory address, the Speaker awarded the Ecumenical Patriarch the Gold Medal of the Hellenic Parliament. After the special session, an official lunch was hosted in his honor.

It is also noted that His All-Holiness marks 35 years of patriarchal service and 65 years of priesthood this year.

On Thursday, May 7, at 17:30, the Speaker of Parliament will deliver remarks at an event titled “Timelessness and Universality: The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in the Modern World,” held in honor of Patriarch Bartholomew at the Pallas Theater, co-organized by the volunteer group “Romion Praxeis.”