Patriarch Bartholomew unveils a monument to himself

Patriarch Bartholomew sitting next to the monument in his honor. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency

On October 15, 2024, a sculpture was unveiled that will serve as a reminder to visitors of the Holy Monastery of Panagia "Axion Esti" in Melbourne, Australia, of Patriarch Bartholomew's visit, reports orthodoxianewsagency.

Sculptor S. Jinks depicted the Ecumenical Patriarch sitting on a bench with a book in his hand, on which is written in both Greek and English: "The Constitution of the Church."

"The overall appearance of the statue, I believe, conveys a sense of simplicity and humility, qualities that are widely acknowledged to adorn the personality of our Patriarch and make him so approachable and beloved by his spiritual children and those around the world fortunate enough to know him personally," said Archbishop Makarios of Australia (Ecumenical Patriarchate), describing the project.

This is not the first time Patriarch Bartholomew has taken part in such events. In 2015, he unveiled a bust of himself in front of the Higher Theological School on the island of Halki in Greece.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Patriarch Bartholomew accused the Russian Orthodox Church of ingratitude towards the Mother Church.

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