Speaking with deep emotion, gratitude, and heartfelt references to his birthplace, the island of Imbros, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew delivered a moving address during the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Holy Apostles Bartholomew and Barnabas at the Metropolitan Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Panagia, Imbros.
The Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his joy at celebrating his name day in his birthplace, explaining that his decision to mark the occasion in Imbros this year was inspired by his enduring love for his homeland and its people.
“The love for my birthplace, my affection for the younger generation of Imbrians, and my heartfelt attachment to the ancestors and beloved relatives who rest here overcame every hesitation,” he said.
Patriarch Bartholomew offered special thanks to Patriarch Daniel of Romania and Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria for joining the celebrations. He noted that their presence highlighted the “unbreakable bonds of brotherly love in Christ among our three Churches” and provided significant moral and spiritual encouragement to the people of Imbros.
Reflecting on the island’s recent journey, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed optimism about its future. “Our Imbros has been striving in recent years for a new social and spiritual reconstruction and flourishing,” he said, voicing hope for “better days” ahead for its inhabitants.
A particularly emotional moment came as he recalled the 65th anniversary of his ordination to the diaconate, which took place in the same church. He remembered the late Metropolitan Meliton, who gave him the name of the Holy Apostle Bartholomew, emphasizing that the Apostle has remained his heavenly protector ever since.
“His personality and work, his witness and martyrdom, have always been for me not merely a source of inspiration, but also a light upon my path,” the Patriarch said.
He also praised the deep faith of the people of Imbros and their special devotion to the Mother of God, noting that the name of the island’s capital, Panagia, bears witness to the profound reverence that Imbrians have traditionally shown toward the Theotokos.
Turning to global affairs, Patriarch Bartholomew expressed concern over the wars and conflicts afflicting many regions of the world and offered prayers for peace. He prayed “for peace in long-suffering Ukraine, the Middle East, and every corner of the earth afflicted by wars and unrest.”
Concluding his address, the Ecumenical Patriarch thanked all those who traveled to Imbros to participate in the celebrations, as well as Metropolitan Kyrillos of Imbros and Tenedos for organizing the festivities. He also expressed gratitude to representatives of the local Orthodox Churches for their greetings and support.
“May Christ protect Imbros and the Imbrians, those near and those far away,” he said in closing.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
