Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew led the Great Vespers for the Feast of Indiction at the Cathedral of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary in Pera on Saturday, August 31, 2024.
The service was attended by hierarchs of the Ecumenical Throne, clergy, monks from Mount Athos, Greek Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Georgios Kotsiras, Ambassador Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in Constantinople, Archons of the Great Church of Christ, and numerous believers from Constantinople and abroad.
Hieromonk Kallinikos Chasapis was ordained as Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne by the Ecumenical Patriarch following the Divine Liturgy.
After the service, the renovated cells in the Cathedral courtyard were consecrated by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The restoration of these cells, which were destroyed by fire in the late 1970s, was made possible by a generous donation from Greek-American Archon George Marcus of California.
In his address, the Ecumenical Patriarch emphasized the enduring spirit and resilience of the Greek community in Constantinople showcased through the restoration of the cells.
He expressed confidence in the future and the commitment to preserve the heritage and sanctuaries of the Nation, demonstrating faith in God’s providence.
The Ecumenical Patriarch extended congratulations to Metropolitan Andreas of Saranta Ekklisies and the Ephorate Committee for their successful completion of the project, offering special recognition to President Georgios Papaliaris.
Gratitude was also expressed to Archbishop Elpidophoros of America for his contributions, and an honorary plaque was presented to George Marcus, received on his behalf by Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco.
Georgios Papaliaris addressed the Ecumenical Patriarch, highlighting the history and restoration work of the cells.
