Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew paid a significant visit to the Holy Monastery of the Protection of the Theotokos Bussy-en-Othe on Friday, April 26, 2024. Accompanied by his honorary entourage, he graced the monastery with his presence and presided over the Doxology held at the Katholikon.
Metropolitan Demetrios of France warmly welcomed the Ecumenical Patriarch, emphasizing the importance of his visit to the monastery. In his speech, the Patriarch expressed his delight at visiting this Orthodox women’s monastery in Burgundy, under the leadership of Abbess Nun Emiliani.
Reflecting on the monastery’s long history since its establishment on July 1, 1946, the Patriarch highlighted the contributions of individuals and its enduring impact on contemporary French society. He praised the monastery’s dedication to maintaining close ties with the Mother Church of Constantinople, noting how this connection has enriched Orthodoxy in France.
A special moment occurred as the Ecumenical Patriarch recognized the great blessing brought to the monastery through the possession of the relics of Saint Alexios of Ugine. These relics, originating from the Russian diaspora of Western Europe, were canonized by the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 2004.
In acknowledgment of the spiritual leadership of Abbess Nun Emiliani, the Patriarch commended her steadfast faith and devotion to the Mother Church of Constantinople. Despite facing challenges of animosity and division, both the Abbess and the Sisterhood remained steadfast in their commitment to cultural heritage and canonical truth.
The visit concluded with the Ecumenical Patriarch and his entourage participating in the Monastic Table at noon. Later in the evening, they departed from Charles de Gaulle International Airport for Constantinople, arriving on the dawn of Lazarus Saturday, April 27, 2024. The Patriarch received a warm welcome at the Constantinople airport from his Commissioner, Elder Metropolitan Apostolos of Derkoi, and Grand Protosyncellus Gregory.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas