Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew holds key meetings with King Charles III and Church of Crete

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has engaged in high-level diplomatic and religious meetings, including a discussion with representatives from the Church of Crete and a meeting with King Charles III.

On September 24, 2026, the Patriarch received a delegation from the Holy Provincial Synod of the Church of Crete at the Fanar, led by Archbishop Eugenios of Crete. The meeting focused on matters regarding the Cretan dioceses under the Throne. Both parties expressed alignment regarding the faithful observance of Holy Canons and the Church's Charter, reaffirming the strong ties between the Church of Crete and the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople.

Previously, on September 21, 2026, the Patriarch met with King Charles III at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. This marked their second meeting since the King's accession to the throne. The private meeting, which lasted an hour, was described as having a very warm and friendly atmosphere.