On Sunday, December 8, 2024, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew led the Divine Liturgy at the newly opened Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos, the official headquarters of the Holy Metropolis of Smyrna.
This historic church, originally constructed in the 17th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Santa Maria), was gifted to the Metropolis in 2023 by Pope Francis and the Franciscan Order following a request by the Ecumenical Patriarch. This generous gesture transformed the church into the Orthodox Cathedral of Smyrna.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Archbishop Marek Solczyński, Vatican Nuncio to Turkey and Azerbaijan; Archbishop Martin Kmetec of Smyrna; a delegation of Franciscan monks from Rome led by John Wong, representing the head of the Order, Saint Massimo Fusarelli; the Consuls General of Greece and Romania in Smyrna, Alexandros Konstas and Lilian Zamfiroiu; representatives of Smyrnaean associations from Greece; and numerous faithful from Smyrna and beyond.
In his sermon, Patriarch Bartholomew spoke about the historical and spiritual importance of the church, highlighting the kindness of Pope Francis and the Franciscan Brotherhood.
“Santa Maria of Smyrna has stood for over three centuries, rebuilt after the tragic earthquake of 1688 that struck the city and took the life of its Metropolitan Ignatius of Smyrna. Throughout its history, this sacred site was home to the Franciscan Order. Today, thanks to the generosity of Pope Francis and the Franciscan Brotherhood, it becomes a spiritual sanctuary for the Orthodox believers of this great city,” the Patriarch stated.
He expressed deep gratitude for the gesture, emphasizing that such actions “strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among us and convey a powerful message of unity and Christian solidarity.”
The Patriarch also emphasized the significance of the church’s designation as the Cathedral of the Metropolis of Smyrna under Metropolitan Bartholomew.
“The Holy Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos will now serve as a place of worship for the spiritual well-being of the faithful and the peace of the world. It will symbolize stability, unity, and divine grace, particularly in these challenging times,” he remarked.
Patriarch Bartholomew offered his warm congratulations to Metropolitan Bartholomew for securing the Cathedral and commended his pastoral commitment. He encouraged the Metropolitan to continue his ministry with love and accountability, under the protection of the Theotokos and the Saints of Smyrna.
The Patriarch expressed sincere gratitude to key contributors who made the restoration and preparation of the church possible. Among them, Marianna Latsi was recognized for her generous donation that supported the upkeep of the church and its surroundings. Additionally, Archon Asikritis, Epaminondas Pantazopoulos, was praised for donating the church’s iconostasis. The Patriarch also acknowledged the efforts of all those who contributed to the project, ensuring the church was ready for its new role.
The inauguration marked a significant moment for the Orthodox community of Smyrna, combining history, faith, and ecumenical collaboration.
The Dormition Cathedral has become a symbol of hope and unity, catering to the spiritual needs of the Orthodox community and representing the lasting influence of Orthodoxy in the area. The stunning photos by Nikos Papachristou capture the essence of this sacred place.
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