Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and human rights during the sanctification ceremony for the new courthouse in Kilkis on September 23, 2024. The ceremony was attended by Greek Minister of Justice Giorgos Floridis, Mayor Dimitrios Kyriakidis, Metropolitan Ignatios of Demetrias and Almyros, and Metropolitan Bartholomew of Polyana and Kilkis.
Patriarch Bartholomew emphasized the role of the judiciary in safeguarding justice and human rights, emphasizing the need for love for fellow man to be at the core of the concept of justice. He referenced Plato’s view of justice as a harmony of wisdom, bravery, and prudence, highlighting the unity of virtues in maintaining justice.
Bartholomew also discussed the biblical perspective on justice, noting that justice encompasses all virtues and represents man’s duties to God and fellow humans. He quoted Panagiotis Kanellopoulos, acknowledging the fallibility of human justice but emphasizing the importance of striving for truth and morality.
The Patriarch concluded by stressing the significance of maintaining the independence and prestige of the judiciary through both symbolic and structural integrity. He highlighted the importance of the physical space for administering justice in inspiring respect and ensuring the proper functioning of the rule of law.
The Patriarch’s visit to Kilkis concluded with a departure to Lefkochori, Thessaloniki.
Source: ANA-MPA, Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas