Orthodox leaders gather in Imbros for feast of Saint Bartholomew and Saint Barnabas

On June 11, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew celebrated the feast of Saints Bartholomew and Barnabas on the island of Imbros, which is also his place of birth. The event was attended by the Patriarch of Romania Daniel and the Patriarch of Bulgaria Daniil. Ceremonies included a Great Vespers at the Church of Saint George in Agioi Theodoroi and a Divine Liturgy at the Metropolitan Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. During his speech, Patriarch Bartholomew discussed the historical challenges faced by the Greek population on the island and noted improvements in social and spiritual reconstruction with the support of Turkish authorities. Patriarch Daniil of Bulgaria emphasized the unity of the Orthodox Church and the importance of fraternal cooperation. The Patriarch of Constantinople also prayed for peace in conflict-affected regions of the world. The gathering served to mark both the apostolic feast day and the Ecumenical Patriarch's name day.