George Demelis, newly invested as Archon Protomaystor of the Ecumenical Throne, met with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Phanar on Sunday, August 2, where he expressed his gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him by the Mother Church.
In a social media post following the meeting, Demelis described the encounter as a deeply meaningful and blessed moment, noting that some experiences are remembered not only through photographs but are engraved in the soul as a lasting legacy of memory, honor, and gratitude.
He said he had the blessing to pay his filial respects to the Ecumenical Patriarch and personally thank him for the distinction of being received among the Archons of the Great Church of Christ and being awarded the office of Archon Protomaystor.
Demelis emphasized that the distinction is not merely a personal recognition but, above all, a responsibility, a duty, and a call to service. He added that it further strengthens his bond with the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the centuries-old tradition of the Great Church of Constantinople, which, he said, continues to illuminate Orthodoxy and Hellenism.
Reflecting on his personal audience with the Patriarch, Demelis said he felt even more profoundly the weight and the blessing of the honor conferred upon him. He described the Patriarch’s words, fatherly presence, and blessing as a source of strength and inspiration to continue serving the Church, the sacred tradition of Byzantine music, and culture with all his abilities.
Concluding his message, Demelis expressed his deep respect and heartfelt gratitude to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for the trust and paternal honor shown to him.
