I write today to give thanks, not just for an anniversary, but for a lifetime of service.
As we commemorate the 35th anniversary of the election and enthronement of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, I offer my personal congratulations, gratitude, and prayers for a man who has devoted his life to Christ and His Holy Church.
For 35 years, His All-Holiness has carried the tremendous responsibility of the Ecumenical Throne through a period of extraordinary change in our world. As the longest-serving Ecumenical Patriarch in modern history, he has witnessed challenges few could have imagined when his patriarchal ministry began. Yet throughout those years, he has continued to proclaim the Orthodox Christian faith and the timeless message of the Gospel to an ever-changing world.
Having also recently celebrated 65 years of ordained ministry, His All-Holiness reminds us that leadership in the Church is ultimately about service—to Christ, His people, and the mission entrusted to us.
His patriarchal ministry has been extraordinary. His voice has reached far beyond Constantinople, calling attention to the protection of God’s creation, religious freedom, dialogue among peoples, peace, and the witness of Orthodoxy throughout the world.
Thank you, Your All-Holiness.
Thank you for your decades of sacrifice. Thank you for your perseverance. Thank you for carrying the responsibilities of the Great Church of Christ, and for continuing to affirm the Orthodox Christian faith as a vital voice and an essential witness for our time.
On behalf of all of us at the Orthodox Christian Network, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and prayers.
May our Lord grant His All-Holiness continued strength, wisdom, good health, and many more blessed years of service to Christ and His Holy Church.
Εἰς πολλὰ ἔτη, Παναγιώτατε Πάτερ καὶ Δέσποτα!
Many Years, All-Holy Father and Master!
Fr. Christopher Metropulos
Executive Director
Orthodox Christian Network
