U.S. Ambassador Receives Icon From Mt. Athos Monastery
Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle praised the spiritual ties between Greece and the United States during a visit in Athens.
ATHENS — U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle said faith and freedom remain enduring bonds between the United States and Greece after receiving an icon of the Theotokos from the fathers of Xenophontos Monastery on Mt. Athos.
In a statement shared online, Guilfoyle described the icon as a powerful symbol of the spiritual traditions that continue to inspire Orthodox Christian communities throughout the world. She noted that she was especially moved to learn the icon was painted by Fr. Pahomios.
According to the ambassador, Fr. Pahomios also created sacred artwork at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in New York following the September 11 terrorist attacks. Guilfoyle reaffirmed that the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting religious freedom, while emphasizing the spiritual and cultural ties linking the American and Greek peoples through their shared respect for Orthodox Christian heritage and tradition.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Kimberly Guilfoyle met Patr. Bartholomew in Athens.
