Last updated: 9/5/2026 10:44
The Holy Metropolis of Nea Ionia welcomed Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the “Ionic Center” and the under-construction Church of Saint George of Neapolis, on the occasion of an honorary event organized by the Hellenic Red Cross for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, in the presence of Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece.
Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia welcomed the Ecumenical Patriarch and expressed the joy of the clergy and faithful of the Metropolis for his visit to Nea Ionia.
During the event, which took place at the amphitheater of the Cultural and Youth Center of the “Ionic Center,” the President of the Hellenic Red Cross, Dr. Antonios Avgerinos, awarded the Ecumenical Patriarch the organization’s Highest Honorary Distinction, the Golden Cross with Golden Laurel Branch, in recognition of his spiritual, charitable, social, and humanitarian work, as well as his contribution to Orthodoxy and the wider international community.
In his address, the President of the Hellenic Red Cross spoke warmly about Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, highlighting his global spiritual influence, his pastoral and peacebuilding work, and his longstanding contribution to unity, reconciliation, and the protection of humanity and creation. He also underlined the Patriarch’s continued support for people in need and for humanitarian initiatives.
In his reply, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew referred with appreciation to the wide-ranging work and longstanding contribution of the Hellenic Red Cross to society, while especially praising the spirit of selflessness and service shown by its volunteers.
The Ecumenical Patriarch also expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the “Ionic Center” project of the Holy Metropolis of Nea Ionia and congratulated Metropolitan Gabriel for his initiative and ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the historical memory and spiritual heritage of Asia Minor Greek refugees.
The official ceremony was attended by numerous Hierarchs, ministers of the Greek government, members of parliament, representatives of local authorities, military and security officials, members of the business and academic communities, and other distinguished guests.
Before the conclusion of the event, Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia presented commemorative gifts, silver replicas of Asia Minor plates, to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece, as a sign of respect and appreciation.
He also offered a commemorative gift to the President of the Hellenic Red Cross, Dr. Antonios Avgerinos, expressing the local Church’s appreciation for the organization’s humanitarian work and contribution to society.
The event was presented by journalist Eleni Chrona, while a drone show dedicated to the timeless humanitarian values upheld by the Hellenic Red Cross since 1877 concluded the evening. The initiative was also aimed at engaging younger generations and promoting the spirit of volunteerism and social contribution.
It should be recalled that the Ecumenical Patriarch had previously visited the Ionic Center on Saturday, November 23, 2024. At that time, the Ecumenical Patriarch had expressed his enthusiasm for the Center, which was still under construction, as well as for its facilities and thematic park, while also conveying his desire to return once the project had progressed further.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
