U.S. President Barack Obama sent a congratulatory message to the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew who is marking the 25th anniversary of his election to his post. Bartholomew presided on Saturday over a service at the Patriarchal Church of St. George at Phanar in Istanbul to mark the event.

“Guided by the teachings of his faith, His All-Holiness, Bartholomew, has long been a pillar of wisdom and enlightenment for people around the world. His work – whether promoting peace and reconciliation, standing for human rights and freedoms, supporting refugees, or encouraging us to be stewards of the one planet we share – has helped transcend divides that have set people apart throughout history,” the U.S. President said on his message.
“At the heart of his efforts lies a fundamental truth about our common humanity: that it is our sacred obligation to spend our time here on earth working together to forge a brighter future for all – including for generations that have not yet come to be,” he added.

“I hope the years ahead bring continued blessings to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s ministry, and I send all those marking this special milestone my very best wishes.”