On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, the Holy Metropolis of Philippi, Neapolis, and Thassos commemorated the centenary of the Theological School of Halki with a series of anniversary events held at the School’s premises. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew attended the ceremonies, underscoring the significance of this historic milestone.
The day’s events began with a welcome address by Bishop Kassianos of Arabissos, who highlighted the close ties between the Theological School and the Metropolis of Philippi, including the notable fact that its first two Metropolitans were graduates of the School. Following this, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew inaugurated a scientific conference dedicated to the centenary, offering insights into the founding and historical development of the Metropolis of Philippi.
The conference included several speeches, with Metropolitan Stefan of Philippi delivering the closing address. The day’s proceedings also featured a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy presided over by Metropolitan Stefan.
Among the attendees were Archpriests Maximos of Silivria, Nektarios Anthidonos, Apostolos of Miletus, Meliton of Philadelphia, Stefan of Kallioupolis, Elpidophoros of America, Bartholomew of Smyrna, Ioakeim of Bursa, Iakovos of Mexico, clergy and monks from the Metropolis of Philippi, Ambassador Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in Constantinople, former Minister G. Kalantzis, the Regional Governor of Macedonia, the Mayor of Kavala, Greek MPs, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and numerous residents from Kavala, Constantinople, and the Princes’ Islands.
The festivities concluded with a celebratory feast, blessed by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
