On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, following the Divine Liturgy at the Church of St. Demetrios Sarmasikios, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew delivered a powerful speech. Emphasizing that the flag will never be lowered, he spoke of enduring hardships with unwavering dedication to the Ecumenical Throne.
The Patriarch reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the sacred duty towards the future of the Ecumenical Throne, honoring the legacy of his predecessors. He drew inspiration from St. Sebastian and all the martyrs of the faith, urging Christians to live as witnesses of Christ through their actions and love for others.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Christians, the Patriarch quoted the words of the Lord on persecution and insult, emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast in faith. He expressed gratitude for reaching the 51st year of his archpriesthood and vowed to continue serving with dedication.
In his prayer during the Divine Liturgy, the Patriarch sought divine protection for the Orthodox community and emphasized the importance of trust in God’s providence. He praised Bishop Adrianos of Halicarnassus for his care and restoration efforts within the Church.
The Patriarch concluded with a message of hope and unity, urging the faithful to trust in the guidance of the Mother Church and emphasizing its role in salvation and reconciliation.