Welcoming the All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

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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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