Metropolitan Epifaniy met with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew
On behalf of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, the Primate warmly welcomed Patriarch Bartholomew, expressing gratitude for spiritual support, condemnation of unjust Russian aggression against Ukraine, and various forms of assistance to the Church and Ukraine. In commemoration of Metropolitan Epiphaniy's visit, a collection of documents from the Local Unification Council of 2018, the Church calendar of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine for 2023-24 according to the new style, and an icon depicting the Protection of the Mother of God were presented as gifts. Metropolitan Epifaniy also shared the latest developments in the life of the Ukrainian Church, including the outcomes of the Local Council, and handed over a letter approved by the Council to His All-Holiness.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew expressed great joy at the arrival of the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine at the Ecumenical Patriarchate. "We rejoice in your visit, Your Beatitude. We pray for you, for the Church, and for the people of Ukraine who suffer from unjust, diabolical aggression. We pray for victory and peace so that this war, this diabolical war, may come to an end. We support your work and your efforts. May God assist!" emphasized His All-Holiness Bartholomew.
In their bilateral conversation, the Primates discussed a wide range of issues related to Ukraine.
In honor of the visit of His Beatitude Metropolitan Epifaniy, His All-Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew hosted an official luncheon at his residence, attended by hierarchs, Patriarchate staff, and guests from Greece, including diplomats and government officials.
The meeting concluded with an audience in the Throne Room of the Patriarchate, during which the Primates delivered welcoming speeches.
