Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew embarked on a significant visit to the Holy Monastery of the Protection of the Theotokos Bussy-en-Othe on Friday, April 26, 2024. Accompanied by his honorary entourage, he graced the monastery with his presence and presided over the Doxology held at the Katholikon.
Metropolitan Demetrios of France warmly welcomed the Ecumenical Patriarch, emphasizing the significance of his visit to the monastery. In his address, the Patriarch expressed his joy at visiting this Orthodox women’s monastery in Burgundy, led by Nun Emiliani as the Abbess.
Reflecting on the monastery’s rich history, which dates back to its foundation on July 1, 1946, the Patriarch highlighted the contributions of individuals and its enduring testimony within contemporary French society. He commended the monastery’s commitment to maintaining close ties with the Mother Church of Constantinople, underscoring how this communion has enriched Orthodoxy in France.
A poignant moment arose as the Ecumenical Patriarch acknowledged the great blessing bestowed upon the monastery through the possession of the relics of Saint Alexios of Ugine. These relics, originating from the Russian diaspora of Western Europe, were canonized by the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 2004.
In recognizing the spiritual leadership of Nun Emiliani, the Patriarch praised her unwavering faith and devotion to the Mother Church of Constantinople. Despite facing challenges of hatred and division, both the Abbess and the Sisterhood stood firm in their adherence to cultural heritage and canonical truth.
The visit culminated with the Ecumenical Patriarch and his entourage partaking in the Monastic Table at noon. Later in the evening, they departed from Charles de Gaulle International Airport for Constantinople, arriving on the dawn of Lazarus Saturday, April 27, 2024. The Patriarch received a warm welcome at the Constantinople airport from his Commissioner, Elder Metropolitan Apostolos of Derkoi, and Grand Protosyncellus Gregory.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
