On Friday, 18 July 2025, the Interorthodox Centre of the Church of
Greece, located at the Holy Monastery of the Dormition of Mary in
Pendeli, had the distinct pleasure of welcoming the multicultural and
interfaith youth delegation “Bel Espoir – MED 25”, as part of their
maritime journey across the Mediterranean.
Comprising young adults aged 18 to 30 from diverse religious traditions
and cultural backgrounds across Mediterranean countries, the
delegation’s mission is to foster peaceful coexistence, interreligious
dialogue, and mutual understanding among the peoples of the region. This
initiative operates under the auspices of the Focolare Movement and,
during its recent stop in Constantinople, the group was warmly received
by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
During their visit to Pendeli, the participants had the opportunity to
become acquainted with the work of the Interorthodox Centre and to
explore the Orthodox Church’s theological approach to ecological
issues—an especially pertinent topic, as this year’s mission focuses on
the relationship between humanity and creation.
Particular interest was expressed regarding the environmental
consequences of recent wildfires that have affected Pendeli and the
surrounding region.
The delegation was accompanied by:
• Fr. Alexis Leproux, Vicarius Episcopalis of the Archdiocese of
Marseille, responsible for Mediterranean affairs;
• Deacon Fr. Marios Atallah, Head of Youth Ministry and Vocations of the
Catholic Archdiocese of Athens;
• and Ms. Patrizia Taranto, Head of the Focolare Movement in Greece and Cyprus.
The group was officially welcomed by His Grace Metropolitan Ioannis of
Thermopylae, Director of the Interorthodox Centre of the Church of
Greece, who conveyed his heartfelt wishes for their peacebuilding
mission and encouraged them to continue serving as ambassadors of hope
and unity in the Mediterranean region.
Representing Interorthodox Centre, the following staff members also
received and engaged with the delegation:
• Ms. Kalliopi Mavragka, (Scientific Staff)
• Mr. Sergios Voilas, (Scientific Staff)
• Mr. Spyros Bitzas (Security Officer),
• and Ms. Irini Grypaiou (Head Librarian).
This visit proved to be a meaningful occasion for dialogue,
intercultural exchange, and spiritual encounter—underscoring the Church
of Greece’s commitment to cultivating a Mediterranean marked by mutual
understanding and peace.
