[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 148 (Wednesday, September 10, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H4231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      WELCOMING HIS ALL-HOLINESS ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW

  (Mr. Patronis asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the Greek 
Orthodox community in Florida and also across the United States to 
extend a heartfelt welcome to his All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch 
Bartholomew who will visit Washington, D.C., from September 15 through 
September 17.
  For many Greek Orthodox faithful in my district, His All-Holiness is 
more than a religious leader. He is their spiritual father. He is a 
voice of compassion, a symbol of faith that has been carried across 
generations of families who came to America in search of freedom of 
opportunity. His visit to our Nation's Capital is an occasion for pride 
for my constituents and all Orthodox Christians who call America home.
  Patriarch Bartholomew is known worldwide as a bridge-builder, working 
tirelessly to promote peace, dialogue, and respect among all different 
faiths. He is also a champion for protecting our natural environment, 
earning him the title of the ``Green Patriarch.''
  His leadership is a source of inspiration not only for the Greek 
Orthodox community but all those who care about human rights, religious 
liberty, and the stewardship of God's creation.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming His All-
Holiness to the United States and celebrating this historic visit with 
many Greek Orthodox Americans who are honored by his presence. This 
moment is a reminder of enduring contributions that faith, family, and 
the community make the strength of our Nation a great nation.

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