Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew praised front line health care workers in their battle against the pandemic after leading a mass in Athens with Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Ieronymos II and members of the Holy Synod at the Athens Cathedral for the feast of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary to mark the 30-year anniversary since he ascended to the patriarchal throne.
After the liturgy, Archbishop Ieronymos welcomed the Patriarch and conveyed his best wishes for the anniversary, while referring to the important and multifaceted contribution of the Ecumenical Patriarch and the deep respect, love and support of the Church of Greece.
In his reply, the Ecumenical Patriarch thanked the Greek Church for its invitation and referred to the pandemic and "the touching sacrifice of doctors and healthcare staff" while expressing his support for the work of the state, while stressing the need for knowledge, unity and patience.
The service was attended by Education and Religions Minister Niki Kerameus, Culture and Sports Minister Lina Mendoni, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias, Attica Region governor Giorgos Patoulis, Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis and the Mount Athos Civil Administrator Athanasios Martinos.
