Church of Greece marks 1700 years since First Ecumenical Council with commemorative event in Athens
On Monday, 2 June 2025, the Church of Greece held a grand commemorative event under the title “And in One Lord Jesus Christ” at the historic Pallas Theater in Athens to honour the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council, convened in Nicaea of Bithynia in 325 AD.
The event was organised following the decision of the Standing Holy Synod of the Church of Greece on 11 March 2025. The responsibility for planning and executing the celebration was entrusted to His Eminence Metropolitan Hierotheos of Nafpaktos and Agios Vlasios, His Eminence Metropolitan Ioustinos of Nea Krini and Kalamaria, and His Eminence Metropolitan Agathangelos of Fanarion, Director General of the Apostolic Ministry of the Church of Greece (Apostoliki Diakonia).
The evening began with a welcome address by Metropolitan Ioustinos, who warmly greeted His Beatitude Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece, attending hierarchs, the Deputy Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, Mr. Nikolaos Papaioannou, representing the Greek Government, and all participants and guests.
A video message from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was then presented, followed by a greeting by Archbishop Ieronymos, who emphasised the enduring importance of the Council of Nicaea for the unity and doctrinal integrity of the Church.
The event featured the premiere screening of a documentary produced by the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece titled “And in One Lord Jesus Christ”, focusing on the theological, historical, and ecclesiastical significance of the First Ecumenical Council.
The celebration concluded with a Byzantine Music Concert, offering a spiritual and cultural tribute to the landmark anniversary, reminding all present of the legacy and timeless truths affirmed by the Council that continue to guide Orthodox faith and witness to this day.
