The Pastoral and Philanthropic Foundation of the Metropolis of Switzerland of the Ecumenical Patriarchate was established just two years after the Holy Metropolis of Switzerland was founded by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1982 under the leadership of Metropolitan Damaskinos Papandreou. The Foundation, as its name suggests, operates under the direct authority of the Metropolis of Switzerland of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Foundation since its inception in 1984, and various events have been organized to celebrate this milestone. The first event was an art competition for children held in April 2024, themed “Philanthropy in Pictures.” Following this, the Foundation’s charity gala took place in May 2024 after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The third commemorative event occurred on October 15, 2024, at the Museum of Christian Art of the Orthodox Center of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Chambésy, Geneva.
The evening featured an exhibition of children’s artworks from the earlier competition and works by Greek artist Anna Benis. Metropolitan Maximos of Switzerland, President of the Board of Directors, praised the Foundation’s contributions over the years and honored past members. He commended the current members for their dedication to the mission of philanthropy and support for the Metropolis.
Professor Henry Peter delivered a keynote speech on “Philanthropy and the World of Tomorrow,” which sparked engaging discussions among the attendees. The event concluded with a reception, and notable figures present included Metropolitan Kyrillos of Krini, Mr. Alexandros Gennimatas, and Archimandrite Fr. Phanourios Tholiotis.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
