Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew concluded a significant four-day visit to Kilkis, following a joint invitation from Metropolitan Bartholomew of Polyana and Kilkis and Mayor Dimitris Kyriakidis. The visit coincided with the centenary celebration of the elevation of the Diocese of Polyana to the Holy Metropolis of Polyana and Kilkis.
On September 21, 2024, the Patriarch was welcomed at the Metropolitan Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, where a doxology was performed in the presence of Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens. The service, attended by political, military, and ecclesiastical leaders, along with many faithful, set a reverent tone for the visit. Following the service, a special ceremony at City Hall saw Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew declared an honorary citizen of Kilkis.
In his remarks, the Patriarch reflected on the region’s rich history, stating, “The culture, life, and history of the people of this region, both indigenous and refugee, are inextricably linked and interwoven with our Church.”
The following day, September 22, 2024, the Patriarch presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, where he described the elevation of the Diocese to the Metropolis as a “milestone” for the local Church. His presence continued to inspire the community as he inaugurated the Ecclesiastical Relic Office and Youth Center at the Church of St. Demetrios in Kilkis, marking a spiritual and communal milestone for the region.
In his address to the clergy and monastic brotherhoods of the Metropolis of Polyana and Kilkis, Patriarch Bartholomew expressed deep gratitude for being among them. He emphasized the sacred role of priestly ministry as a bridge between God and humanity and underscored the importance of humility and spiritual guidance in their service.
On September 23, 2024, the Patriarch participated in the sanctification ceremony for the new courthouse in Kilkis. Greek Minister of Justice Giorgos Floridis, Mayor Dimitrios Kyriakidis, and other dignitaries were present. Patriarch Bartholomew stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and human rights, stating, “No concept of justice can be understood if it is not dictated by love for our fellow man.”
Further highlighting his commitment to global issues, the Patriarch delivered a compelling speech at the opening of the Ecological Conference, titled “The Vision of an Ecological Metropolis for the 21st Century: Church, State, Philosophy, and Theology,” held at the Conference Center of the Regional Unity of Kilkis. His message centered on the need for concerted global efforts to address the ecological crisis, advocating for an integration of spiritual and ecological consciousness.
The Patriarch’s final public engagement in Kilkis was the inauguration of the Cultural Center at the Church of St. Charalambos in Mavroneri, where he delivered a profound message about the intersection of culture, technology, and faith. He emphasized the eternal values of the Church and the importance of fostering spiritual growth in a rapidly advancing technological world.
The Patriarch’s visit concluded with his departure to Lefkochori, Thessaloniki, leaving a lasting impact on the Kilkis community and further solidifying his role as a global advocate for justice, faith, and ecological awareness.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
