On the morning of May 3, 2024, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Vespers of the Descent from the Cross at the Patriarchal Cathedral, accompanied by Metropolitans Meliton of Philadelphia, Eirinaios of Myriofyton and Peristasis, Chrysostomos of Myra, Theoliptos of Iconium, Ioakeim of Bursa, and Theodoros of Seleucia.
The Divine Word was proclaimed by the Grand Protosyncellus, Theodoros.
Amidst a deeply emotional atmosphere, the intricately embroidered Epitaphios, bearing the immaculate body of the Lord, was solemnly carried into the Church and placed at the center of the Solea by the Grand Syncellus Iakovos and Archimandrite Kaisarios Chronis, Archivist of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The Ecumenical Patriarch led the way in paying his respects, followed by the Hierarchs, the clergy of the Patriarchal Court, Ambassador Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in Constantinople, and the Church’s Archons. The Ecumenical Patriarch personally distributed flowers to the Archons and all the faithful present.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
Translated by Thanos Chrysanthopoulos
