In a historic and deeply emotional event, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew visited Sparta on Monday, November 25, marking the first time in history he has visited the region.
The Patriarch was warmly received at the borders of the Holy Metropolis of Sparta by His Eminence Metropolitan Efstathios, alongside local dignitaries, including Sparta’s Mayor Michael Vakalopoulos, Peloponnese Regional Governor Dimitrios Ptochos, and military and police officials. Accompanying His All-Holiness were senior clergy and representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The official reception took place at the Holy Church of Saint Niconos, where a large crowd, including local officials, students, and believers, gathered. A military band and honour guard added to the ceremonial atmosphere. Inside the church, the Doxology for the Patriarch’s visit was performed.
Metropolitan Efstathios welcomed His All-Holiness, praising his leadership and global influence, stating, “In an era of cosmopolitan developments and multifaceted and polynomial confusion and crisis… the Protothrone Church is blessed to have at its head a Patriarch with international prestige and aware of its pivotal mission in modern times.” He also highlighted Sparta’s rich spiritual and historical heritage, presenting the Patriarch with a symbolic silver disc and an icon of Saint Bartholomew.
His All-Holiness expressed gratitude for the warm reception, noting the deep spiritual ties between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the region. He honoured the legacy of Saint Niconos and the recently canonised National Hieromartyr Ananias Lampardis, emphasising Sparta’s historical and spiritual significance as a homeland of heroes and saints. Reflecting on Metropolitan Efstathios’ leadership, he said, “[He] shines like a lamp in the darkness.”
The Patriarch also presented gifts, including a Holy Gospel for the church and ceremonial items for local clergy. The event continued with the Great Solemn Vespers, presided over by His All-Holiness and attended by senior church officials and local choirs.
The visit drew numerous dignitaries, including members of Parliament, local mayors, and representatives from educational and civic institutions, underscoring the event’s importance to the region and beyond.
