Posted by George Patsourakos
on 11/7/2009, 1:23 pm
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew -- who is often called the "Green Patriarch" because of his persevering efforts for a clean environment -- returned to Constantinople yesterday, following a two-week visit to the United States.
The spiritual leader of some 300 million Orthodox Christians around the world, Patriarch Bartholomew was in Washington, D.C. this week, where he encouraged several political leaders to promote environmental initiatives.
He met with President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The Patriarch discussed everything from the environment to health care.
Speaker Pelosi said lawmakers from both parties share the Patriarch's views. She added, "Many believe that this planet is precious, is God's creation, and we have a moral responsibility to preserve it."
Patriarch Bartholomew said, "God's work has incredible healing powers. Within a single generation, we could steer the earth toward our children's future. Let that generation start now."
The Patriarch concluded his speech by emphasizing that the desire to preserve the future for the next generation should transcend differences in politics and religion.
For more information on Patriarch Bartholomew's U.S. visit, log onto the New York Times website.
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