The 88-year-old pontiff, who passed away shortly after delivering his Easter Sunday Urbi et Orbi blessing, was honored with this Eastern Orthodox hymn, symbolizing resurrection and eternal life—a fitting tribute to a pope known for bridging divides
Referring to Pope Francis as "brother", Patriarch Bartholomew noted that a meeting between them had been planned in May on the 1,700-year anniversary of the 1st Ecumenical Synod but "the God of life and death decided otherwise".
The return marks a significant step in Greece’s 40-year campaign to reclaim the Elgin Marbles, a collection of Parthenon sculptures taken by British diplomat Lord Elgin in the early 19th century, currently housed in the British Museum.
Each year, the Greek Patriarch of Jerusalem leads the Holy Fire ceremony. He enters the Edicule, a small shrine within the Holy Sepulchre encasing Christ’s tomb, alone.
The enhanced lighting not only accentuates Meteora’s striking geological features but also deepens its spiritual resonance during Holy Week. To mark Pascha, the municipality has introduced evocative displays of the Crucifixion and Resurrection at the “Xenia” recreation area, creating a reverent and mystical ambiance for visitors and pilgrims.
“Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross.”
