During the celebration of the Feast of the Holy Apostle Bartholomew at Saint George Cathedral in Stockholm, Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden and All Scandinavia addressed the faithful with particular reference to the person and ministry of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
In his address, the Metropolitan recalled the Holy Apostle Bartholomew’s significance for the life of the Church, describing him as a model, authentic disciple of Christ. He noted that the Apostle’s sincerity, purity of heart, and devotion to the Lord set an example for believers that will never grow old.
On this special day, the Metropolitan of Sweden offered his warmest greetings and best wishes to the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the Orthodox Church and the global community.
‘For more than three decades of patriarchal ministry, His All-Holiness has emerged as one of the most respected spiritual figures of our time,’ he stated, adding that the Ecumenical Patriarch has worked ‘with wisdom, discernment and profound ecclesiastical integrity’ to promote unity within Orthodoxy, advance inter-Christian and interreligious dialogue, and foster peace and reconciliation between peoples.
The Metropolitan made special mention of the Ecumenical Patriarch’s environmental initiatives, noting that he has “rightly been recognised as the ‘Green Patriarch’”, as he has long emphasised the theological importance of protecting the natural environment and humanity’s responsibility towards God’s creation.
The Metropolitan further stressed that the Ecumenical Patriarch’s voice has consistently been ‘a voice of justice, solidarity, and humanitarian concern’, steadfastly proclaiming the message of love, reconciliation, and mutual respect in a world afflicted by conflict and division.
‘His contribution to the Church, culture, education, and the global community constitutes a precious legacy for future generations,’ underscored Metropolitan Cleopas.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
