Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew extended a warm welcome to the chanters of Constantinople, marking the New Year, and joined them for a traditional meal held in their honor at the Patriarchate.
In his speech, the Ecumenical Patriarch, noted, among other things, that he was aware that the ministry of the chanter is both difficult and lonely today.
“Many times I reflect on those humble chanters who sing tirelessly and honorably for the sanctuaries of the Nation in the churches of Constantinople, without assistance, without any supporters, relying solely on the strength provided by the Lord. Much like us, they contribute to the sanctuaries of the Nation, upholding the legacy bequeathed to us by our holy fathers. The lesson is that we persist in the struggle. We do not lower the flag. We are “few and numerous” and determined, because this is our life, this is our blessed characteristic. Nothing would bring us greater joy than the honorable and optimistic service of those we hold in high regard as holy and sacred. Those who are worth sacrificing our ‘tranquility’ and ‘quietness,’ because they are the truly important ones.”
The Ecumenical Patriarch went on to say that “the difficulty in carrying out any task should never serve as an excuse for anyone to exert less effort. The chanters, even if chanting on their own, have a sacred obligation to strictly observe order. A worthy chanter is not the one who praises God before a large audience that admires him. Worthy is the one who chants the sacred hymns with awe and solemnity, even in an empty church, as if chanting in a full church.”
He added, “You know that our music is an indispensable component of the patriarchal institution. It contributes over time to the reputation and worldwide recognition of the Mother Church. After all, Constantinople will always be the center of the music of our Nation.”
Previously, the Ecumenical Patriarch was addressed by the Vice-President of the Board of Directors of the Association of Music Friends of Peran, Archon Hymnod of the Great Church of Christ, Georgios Sarris. The latter assured the Patriarch of the will and determinacy of all the chanters to work with all their strength “to maintain our Association at a worthwhile level and continue to uphold the chanting tradition of Constantinople in the footsteps of our esteemed predecessors, the great first chanters, and all the chanters of Constantinople in general.” As he mentioned, “the paternal affection and interest of our Ecumenical Patriarch, who is always on our side, serve as a source of inspiration and strength for us.”
Photos: Nikos Papachristou / Translated by Thanos Chrysanthopoulos
