Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Christmas Divine Liturgy on January 7, 2024, following the Julian calendar, held at the Holy Metochion of St. Andrew in Galatas. This location serves as a hub for Constantinople’s Russian-speaking community. Addressing the faithful, the Patriarch conveyed the Mother Church’s love for her spiritual children, extending warm Christmas wishes, particularly to the younger members of the congregation.
Expressing his closeness to the community celebrating Christmas according to the Julian Calendar, the Patriarch emphasized the unity of Orthodox believers in Christ. He highlighted the unifying nature of Christmas, uniting various nationalities—Russians, Ukrainians, Greeks, Georgians, Gagauzes, Romanians, Turks—all gathered around Christ the Savior. He stressed the harmony prevailing among them on this sacred occasion, transcending conflicts and divisions.
The Ecumenical Patriarch invited Elder Zacharias, spiritual father of the Holy Forerunner Monastery in Great Britain, to deliver a speech on spirituality, acknowledging the monastery’s devoted connection to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Grand Preacher Panaretos addressed the Patriarch, highlighting the Metochion of St. Andrew as a sanctuary for those in need, immigrants, refugees, and sufferers who find refuge in shared language and faith in Christ. He sought the Patriarch’s blessing for the Russian-speaking community members.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated in Slavonic by Grand Syncellus Iakovos and Patriarchal Deacon Epiphanius, included chants by the parish’s women’s choir. Metropolitan Joachim of Bursa, Archimandrite Petros of Essex, Hieromonk Nicholas of the nearby Metochion of St. Panteleimon of Mount Athos in Galatas, along with other serving fathers, and dignitaries such as Moldova’s Consul General in Constantinople, Mr. Sergiu Gurduza, and many believers were present at the ceremony.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
