Continuity and Universality: The Patriarchate of Constantinople in the Contemporary World

The volunteer group “Romaios Praxeis,” under the auspices of the Hellenic Parliament and in collaboration with the Municipality of Alimos and the Municipality of Palaio Faliro, is organizing an event titled “Timelessness and Ecumenism: The Patriarchate of Constantinople in the Modern World” at the Pallas Theater on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. (doors open at 4:30 p.m. – doors close at 5:15 p.m.).

Speakers at the event will include His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Speaker of the Hellenic Parliament, Mr. Nikitas Kaklamanis, Professor of International Law and Foreign Policy Mr. Angelos Syrigos, and the Vice Rector of the Athens School of Fine Arts Mr. Ioannis Melanitis.

The aim of the event is to highlight the work and ministry of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the oldest functioning institution in the City. As part of the event, two short films will be screened about the churches that have at various times served as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, as well as on His All-Holiness’s historic visits to ruined churches, where Divine Liturgies were celebrated after decades of silence.

The event will open with a performance by the Hellenic Air Force Band, which will play in honor of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The event will also feature the choir of the Athens-based Association of Music Lovers of Constantinople, while members of the historical associations “Association of Princes – St. George Koudounas,” “Association of Imbrians,” “Asia Minor Association of N. Psychiko – Ag. Georgios,” “Union of Cypriots,” and “DEROPOLIS Dance and Cultural Association” will appear in traditional costumes.

The event is being held as part of a double anniversary celebration: the 35th anniversary of His All-Holiness’s election to the Most Holy Ecumenical Throne, and the 65th anniversary of his ordination to the diaconate and the beginning of his priestly ministry.