Orthodox Patriarchs lead major liturgies in UK and Egypt

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over a Divine Liturgy on September 20, 2026, at the Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegial Monastery of St. John the Baptist in Essex, UK. During the service at the Holy Temple of St. Sophronius of Athos, the Patriarch expressed deep emotion regarding the monastery founded by St. Sophronius, describing it as a continuation of ancient monastic traditions within the British Isles.

In Alexandria, Egypt, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa led a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy at the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of St. Sava. The service was attended by various Orthodox clergy and representatives from the Anglican Communion, including members of the International Commission for Anglican-Orthodox Theological Dialogue (ICAOTD), which is currently holding sessions in Alexandria. Patriarch Theodore II emphasized that theological dialogue gains true meaning when it is transformed into practical love and service.