Ecumenical Patriarch: The Church is the liberator of History, not its adversary

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew reflected on the significance and legacy of the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church, ten years after its convocation in Crete, during his address at the anniversary conference taking place in Chantilly, France.

The conference, titled “The Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church (2016–2026): Assessment and Prospects,” is being held from October 5 to 8 under the auspices of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Patriarch Bartholomew described the Council of Crete as a “decisive” ecclesiastical event for the self-understanding and course of contemporary Orthodoxy, stressing that both its convocation and its decisions constitute “an important chapter in the synodal identity and history” of the Church and a valuable legacy for future generations.

He also recalled the long and difficult process that preceded the Council and highlighted the role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in its preparation and convocation.

“Postponement Would Have Meant Its Definitive Cancellation” The Ecumenical Patriarch referred to the decision of the Patriarchates of Antioch, Russia, Bulgaria and Georgia not to participate in the 2016 Council, arguing that their…