[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 185 (Wednesday, November 5, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S7925]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      COMMEMORATING THE VISIT OF ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW

  Mr. COONS. Mr. President, today I would like to commemorate the visit 
to the United States of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual 
head of the second-largest Christian Church in the world which boasts 
300 million faithful. The Ecumenical Patriarch is also the spiritual 
leader of more than 4,000 Delawareans who are Greek Orthodox 
Christians. Delaware's Greek community has a long and vibrant history, 
and it is an honor to mark the Ecumenical Patriarch's visit.
  During his visit to the United States, Ecumenical Patriarch 
Bartholomew received the Templeton Prize: a recognition of someone who 
has dedicated themselves to affirming the spiritual dimension of life. 
The Ecumenical Patriarch received this award for his remarkable 
leadership working to foster an ``ecumenical imperative'' to care for 
creation, in which he has brought together religious, scientific, and 
world leaders to advocate for greater care for our planet. The 
Ecumenical Patriarch joins a long list of powerful advocates for change 
who have received this award, including my good friend Jane Goodall. 
The Ecumenical Patriarch's receipt of the Templeton Award builds on his 
previous accolades, including his receipt of the Congressional Gold 
Medal: the highest award that Congress has to offer.
  Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew's commitment to fostering dialogue 
for the betterment of the world is admirable and an example that we 
should all seek to follow. His All-Holiness is a tremendous leader in 
the world and for many in our country, and I look forward to continuing 
to support his efforts to strive for peace on earth over the years to 
come.

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