Welcoming Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

Floor Speech

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Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend a warm welcome to His All-Holiness Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and spiritual leader of Orthodox Christianity. Recognized as ``First Among Equals'' among Orthodox bishops, he is visiting our Nation's Capital to receive the Templeton Prize--the world's most prestigious award honoring contributions to religion and science.

As Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, His All-Holiness leads the world's second-largest Christian church. Since assuming this role in 1991, he has earned global respect for his spiritual leadership and commitment to peace. Guided by his belief that ``war in the name of religion is war against religion,'' Patriarch Bartholomew has built strong relationships with religious and political leaders in every continent to promote unity among faiths.

In 1997, Patriarch Bartholomew became the first Ecumenical Patriarch to visit the United States, and it is our great pleasure to welcome him back as he meets with the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress. I recognize and celebrate his lifelong dedication of peacemaking and his steadfast efforts to build bridges between East and West, Christian and Muslim, and all people of good will. May his presence here remind us of our commitment to remain ``One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.''

I extend my warmest welcome to His All-Holiness and pray that his visit will be blessed with success, fellowship, and hope for the future of our common humanity.

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