On October 22, 1991, His All-Holiness Bartholomew was elected Archbishop of Constantinople–New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch. As he marks thirty-five years in that office, the Orthodox Christian Network joins the faithful around the world in giving thanks for his ministry.
First Among Equals
The Ecumenical Patriarch holds a primacy of honor among the heads of the autocephalous Orthodox Churches. As primus inter pares, “first among equals,” his role is not universal jurisdiction over Orthodox Christians but leadership, coordination, and service within the communion of the Churches.
Patriarch Bartholomew has carried that responsibility through decades of political upheaval, international conflict, and growing secularization, as well as serious strains on Christian unity. He has consistently worked to keep the Orthodox Churches together and in dialogue, most notably by convening the Holy and Great Council in Crete in 2016, an effort to strengthen the Church’s common witness despite real disagreements within the Orthodox world.
A Voice Beyond the Church
His All-Holiness has also insisted that Orthodoxy has something to say to the wider world. His advocacy for the protection of creation brought the Orthodox understanding of environmental stewardship to international attention and earned him the title “Green Patriarch.” His commitment to dialogue with other Christians and with people of other faiths has centered on peace, mutual respect, and the dignity of every human person.
Underlying all of this is a conviction that the Church is not merely the keeper of a glorious past but the living Body of Christ, called to bring the Gospel to every generation.
Our Prayers
At OCN, our work is to share the Orthodox faith through digital media, interviews, educational programming, and international collaboration. The Patriarch’s witness, that faith must reach beyond church walls into the lives of families, communities, and nations, is one we take seriously in that work.
Thirty-five years of patriarchal ministry represent countless prayers, difficult decisions, and pastoral encounters, carried on behalf of the whole Church.
On behalf of the OCN family, our Board of Directors, supporters, and ministry partners, I offer His All-Holiness our congratulations and deepest respect.
We pray that the Lord grant him health, strength, and wisdom for many more years of service; that the Most Holy Theotokos intercede for him; and that the Holy Spirit guide him in the responsibilities of the Ecumenical Throne. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
Εἰς πολλὰ ἔτη, Παναγιώτατε!
Many Years, Your All-Holiness!
Rev. Dr. Christopher Metropulos
Executive Director, Orthodox Christian Network
October 2026
