Under the chairmanship of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the 10th Assembly of the Venerable Hierarchy of the Ecumenical Throne took place in Constantinople from September 1 to 3. The Hierarchs of the Autonomous Churches of Finland and Estonia under his protection also participated.
The Assembly commenced with the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Indiction at the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. George the Great Martyr. The Patriarch, Metropolitans, Archbishops, and Bishops of the Throne were present.
The Assembly included five thematic sessions focusing on various issues concerning the life and witness of the Great Church of Christ in the modern world:
a) Discussions on Orthodox and Inter-Christian Relations, the impact of the war in Ukraine, and the Orthodox Diaspora in Western Europe.
b) Deliberations on Canonical and Liturgical Issues, deviations from canon and liturgical tradition, and media interventions.
c) Presentations on the Mother Church in the Contemporary World, including topics like Artificial Intelligence and challenges faced by today’s youth.
d) Addressing Church and Geopolitical Issues, with a focus on the “Russian World” theory and the condemnation of its use to promote state interests and the war in Ukraine.
e) Discussions on Orthodox Monasticism and Mission, highlighting missionary work in the Antipodes and the relationship between the Church of Constantinople and Mount Athos.
Prayers were offered for peace in Ukraine, the Middle East, Syria, Lebanon, and solidarity was expressed with the Patriarchate of Antioch. The Assembly condemned non-canonical actions of the Russian Church and expressed support for the Patriarchate of Alexandria and the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.
The Assembly was praised for its organization, relevant discussions, and ecumenical focus. It served as a platform for dialogue and in-depth conversations on timely issues.
In his closing remarks, the Ecumenical Patriarch announced the upcoming celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea in May 2025, with the participation of Pope Francis.
The proceedings concluded with remarks from Metropolitan Damaskinos of Didymoteicho, Orestiada, and Soufli, followed by the traditional closing service.
Photo: Nikos Papachristou
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou