Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate conducts mass with 140 bishops from around world

ISTANBUL – Doğan News Agency

DHA Photo

Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Bartholomew has performed a mass marking the beginning of the church’s calendar with the participation of some 140 metropolitan bishops and archbishops from around the world.

The mass, marking the start of the religious calendar the patriarchate uses, was conducted at the patriarchate’s church in Istanbul’s Balat neighborhood, with members of the Orthodox faith also attending. 

Around 140 metropolitan bishops and archbishops from around the world are currently in Istanbul to attend a meeting between Aug. 29 and Sept. 2 in order to discuss issues affecting the church and current global issues.

“The reason of our meeting is to inform our representatives around the world about issues discussed by our patriarchate and to listen to their opinions,” said a statement released by the patriarchate on Aug. 27, adding that four major issues would be on focus during the meeting.

The Pan-Orthodox Synod works and calendar, the potential role of the church in environmental issues, bio-ethics and dialogue between religions are the meeting’s focal points. 

Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Bartholomew, who is leader to 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide, has been a long-time supporter of expanding environmental protections to stop climate change.