The Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, welcomed Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to the University following the award ceremony of the title of Professor Emeritus to Professor Vlasios Io. Feidas.
In a cordial dialogue, the Rector highlighted the Patriarch’s unique status as the sole recipient of honorary doctorates from all faculties and departments of the University, praising the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s significant contributions.
Stressing the intertwined roles of the Church and the University in shaping Greek society, the Rector emphasized their shared historical significance since Greece’s post-1821 Revolution reconstruction.He stressed the University’s commitment to not only education and research but also to fostering humanism and ethics. Additionally, the Rector expressed the University’s readiness to support the reopening of the Theological School of Halki through educational initiatives.
In response, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew commended the University’s progress and highlighted the pivotal role of young people in shaping the future. He emphasized the importance of timeless values amidst technological advancements and rejected the notion of science and faith as competing realms.
Expressing pride in the University’s accomplishments, the Ecumenical Patriarch extended blessings and affection to the academic community and expressed hope for the reopening of the Halki School. He welcomed the University’s offer of assistance for this endeavor and proposed reciprocal educational and pilgrimage activities.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
