Mike Johnson Gives Keynote at Reception for Pat. Bartholomew

[Credit: Archons/Orthodox Observer/J. Mindala]

WASHINGTON, DC — On Wednesday, a reception hosted by the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation and Archon John S. Koudounis celebrated Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.

Notable figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, introduced by Rep. Gus Bilirakis, gathered for the occasion.

As the reception took place on Constitution Day, Johnson hailed the U.S. Constitution as “divinely inspired,” saying: “Our rights do not come from a king. They don’t come from the state, from the government. They come from God himself.”

Johnson praised the Orthodox Church for upholding “eternal truths" such as these.

The Ecumenical Patriarch, reflecting on his visit to the Milken Center’s American Dream exhibition, celebrated the Greek Orthodox community’s role in shaping America’s narrative. “America is a nation of immigrants,” he said, noting their “catalytic presence” in expanding the American dream. He blessed the nation, saying, “God bless America.”

VIP guests included Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, Deputy Secretary Mike Rigas, and ambassadors from Greece and Cyprus. Abp. Elpidophoros and the Holy Eparchial Synod were also in attendance.

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