Patr. Bartholomew Inspects Renovation Work at Halki Theological School

ISTANBUL — Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew visited the Holy Theological School of Halki on July 9 to review the progress of a major renovation project that is expected to restore and enhance the historic institution's facilities in the near future.

The Patriarch was accompanied by Athanasios Martinos, an honorary archon and major benefactor of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, along with his wife, Marina Martinos. The couple fully funded the renovation of the historic building complex, which has long been a significant center of Orthodox theological education.

Following prayers at the Catholicon of the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, Patr. Bartholomew and Martinos toured the school grounds and received updates from project officials regarding the ongoing restoration work. The visit included representatives of the Holy Monastery of the Holy Trinity's governing body, led by Metr. Elder Apostolos of Derkoi, as well as Greek Consul General to Constantinople Konstantinos Koutras.

The Ecumenical Patriarch expressed satisfaction with the progress of the renovations, saying the project would greatly improve the historic buildings of the theological school. He also again thanked Martinos and his wife for their significant financial support and contribution to the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Ecumenical Patriarchate advanced the restoration of the historic Prinkipo Greek Orphanage.