Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Arrives in U.S. for Historic Official Visit

September 15, 2025

New York, NY – His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew arrived today at Joint Base Andrews Military Facility near Washington, D.C., marking the start of a significant official visit to the United States. The visit, announced by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America on July 9, 2025, celebrates His All-Holiness’ receipt of the prestigious Templeton Prize for his pioneering efforts in uniting science, spirituality, and environmental stewardship.

Washington, D.C. Engagements
Upon arrival, the Patriarch is set to meet with President Donald Trump, members of Congress, the Senate, and the Diplomatic Corps, continuing his tradition of high-level diplomatic dialogue. On September 17, he will preside over a Patriarchal Great Doxology at St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Falls Church, Virginia.

New York City Itinerary
On September 18, His All-Holiness will travel to New York City to celebrate a Patriarchal Doxology at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine. The following day, he will address the Council on Foreign Relations, engage with young adult leaders from New York and New Jersey, and attend the St. Nicholas Gala at Casa Cipriani.

Environmental Tribute and Synaxis
On September 20, coinciding with International World Coastal Cleanup Day, the Patriarch, known as the "Green Patriarch," will be honored at an Environmental Tribute at Stony Brook University’s Marine Station in Southampton. Later that day, he will lead the annual Synaxis of Hierarchs at Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church in Southampton, followed by Great Vespers and a banquet.

Liturgical and Community Highlights
On September 21, His All-Holiness will preside over the Patriarchal Divine Liturgy at Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church, joined by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros and the Holy Eparchial Synod, followed by an Agape Reception. On September 22, he will bless the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation and the Order of Saint Andrew at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, then address the Concordia Annual Summit.

Templeton Prize and Final Events
On September 23, a Patriarchal Audience with clergy and monastics will be held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, followed by a luncheon honoring the Templeton Prize Committee and a visit to Fordham University’s Orthodox Christian Studies Center. On September 24, a Doxology at St. George Greek Orthodox Church will include a blessing for those from Constantinople, Imvros, and Tenedos, culminating in a private Templeton Prize ceremony that evening.

Farewell and Legacy
The visit concludes on September 25 with a Farewell Luncheon at Rockefeller Center, hosted by Archbishop Elpidophoros and Calamos Investments, honoring Rabbi Arthur Schneier. His All-Holiness’ visit underscores his global leadership in faith, environmental advocacy, and interfaith dialogue.

Source: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Photo Credit: Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman