From 26 to 28 May, Athens hosted the 4th International Conference of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, titled “Protecting Religious Freedom, Democracy, and Human Rights.” On 29 May, the 1st World Summit of the Archons took place.
The conference was organized by Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate from America, Canada, Europe, and Australia, with the participation of representatives from around the world.
Οι Άρχοντες αποτελούν μια διεθνή ομάδα που εργάζεται για την προστασία της θρησκευτικής ελευθερίας και το μέλλον του Οικουμενικού Πατριαρχείου – πνευματικού κέντρου 300 εκατομμυρίων Ορθοδόξων Χριστιανών. Ο τίτλος του Άρχοντα έχει βαθιές ρίζες, ενώ το Τάγμα του Αγίου Ανδρέα ιδρύθηκε το 1966.
The conference was considered historic, continuing the tradition of previous gatherings held in Brussels, Berlin, and Washington, D.C. Discussions focused on the treatment of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, authoritarianism, and the role of religion in geopolitics.
The conference was co-chaired by Archons Athanasios Martinos and Dr. Anthony Limberakis. Mr. Martinos emphasized the importance of the Patriarchate in Turkey and its contribution to the country’s European perspective.
Distinguished speakers attended the Summit, including Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, while its proceedings were held at venues of great religious and cultural significance, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, the Stoa of Attalos, the Old Parliament House, and the Zappeion Hall.
