[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 150 (Monday, September 15, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E844]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      WELCOMING THE ALL-HOLINESS ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 15, 2025

  Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome the All-
Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of 
Constantinople and the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christianity 
worldwide.
  At 85 years old, All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew 
remains at the forefront of the global struggle for religious freedom. 
Known as the ``Bridge Builder'' and the ``Patriarch of Peace,'' he has 
worked tirelessly to foster dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation 
across nations and faith. He has stood firmly against racism, 
extremism, and fundamentalism, championing peace-building measures to 
help defuse conflicts in some of the world's most volatile regions.
  In addition to his leadership on matters of faith and peace, All-
Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has been a pioneering 
advocate for environmental stewardship. Often called the ``Green 
Patriarch,'' he has elevated ecological awareness to the forefront of 
his ministry, inspiring both individuals and institutions to act with 
moral urgency in protecting our planet.
  This month, he is visiting the United States to receive the Templeton 
Prize--the most prestigious award at the intersection of religion and 
science. He joins a distinguished group of past recipients, including 
Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
  As the longest-serving Archbishop of Constantinople in over two 
millennia, All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew embodies the 
values of faith, service, and moral leadership. His life's work is a 
testament to the power of courage, compassion, and conviction, and I am 
honored to welcome him to our country.

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