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Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, was honored as a Lord of the Ecumenical Patriarchate during a special ceremony at the Phanar.
The title of “Lord Kyaisotor” was awarded to him for the first time, as noted by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in his speech.
“The Holy Great Church of Christ, always upholding the Christian way of life and the blessed progress of its followers, today honors your exceptional service, granting you, through our Humility, the esteemed title of Lord Kyaisotor, which is being presented for the first time,” stated the Patriarch, explaining that the Lord Kyaisotor holds a rank just below the Grand Logothete in the hierarchy of offices.
In his address to Mr. Tzitzikostas, His All-Holiness remarked: “You are a figure in political and administrative life, equipped with extensive education, wisdom, and experience. You merge your dedication to public service with your Orthodox Christian faith and respect for the Mother Church and its traditions. Your long-standing contributions to regional development in Greece as the Regional Governor of Central Macedonia and, from December 1, 2024, as Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism of the European Union, challenge you to harness your energy for the European idea, deeply rooted in Christian values.”
The announcement expressed confidence that, during his tenure as Commissioner, Mr. Tzitzikostas will embody Christian values and a passion for European culture. The Patriarch urged him to remain committed to serving the common good, staying true to the nation’s traditions and Orthodoxy through policies promoting social cohesion and environmental protection.
Concluding, Mr. Bartholomew highlighted: “You understand that politics is not merely about power, competition, or interests, but primarily a realm for upholding high ideals, democratic ethics, and ensuring human dignity, fighting for justice, peace, and freedom. As Europe faces significant challenges and crises, it requires individuals devoted to these high ideals, countering the arrogance of power and moral confusion. We encourage you to continue your honorable service with faith in God’s guidance. Every Orthodox voice in Europe and beyond must advocate for a culture of solidarity.”
In his speech, Mr. Tzitzikostas expressed gratitude for the honor, stating that it reflects the values he upholds in his public role.
He emphasized the role of Orthodoxy and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, declaring: “Throughout the centuries, Orthodoxy has been a guiding light for Hellenism and Europe. The Ecumenical Patriarchate remains the bastion of our faith and a guardian of universal values. The European Union’s foundations align closely with the principles Orthodoxy has taught through the ages: peace, justice, dialogue, and respect for every individual.”
“Today marks a significant moment for me,” he remarked, adding, “This occasion embodies not only an honor but a profound responsibility that I accept with respect. It compels me to continue dedicating myself to social justice, sustainable development, and European unity. In these troubled times, we must advocate for a discourse that unites, based on universal values while remaining modern. Such dialogue can serve as a remedy against division and a beacon of hope. We are fortunate to have a leader like His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who embodies this message and tirelessly champions human rights and environmental conservation.”
Mr. Tzitzikostas praised the Patriarch as a symbol of the struggles of their nation and Church, embodying the ideals of humility, patience, and strong faith that reflect the great figures of Hellenism and Orthodoxy. He commended the Patriarch’s significant legacy and impact on future generations.
He shared his long-standing relationship with the Ecumenical Patriarchate and expressed anticipation for the reopening of the Theological School of Halki, emphasizing his commitment to the challenges ahead.
“This title signifies a culmination of my relationship with the Church and a renewed motivation to uphold our great values, promote solidarity, and support sustainable development models. I view today’s proclamation as confirmation that Orthodoxy is a living institution actively engaging with contemporary issues while rooted in tradition. This honor inspires my determination to serve all European citizens diligently. I am grateful to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and His All-Holiness for this exceptional recognition. I pledge to uphold the values that unite Orthodoxy, Greece, and Europe,” Mr. Tzitzikostas concluded.
Comments
7 responses to “App. Tzitzikostas Appointed as a Lord of the Ecumenical Patriarchate”
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Just what we needed—another title to add to the long list of bureaucratic honors! Guess the Lord Kyaisotor position really helps to get those sustainable transport policies rolling, doesn’t it? 😏
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So, Tzitzikostas gets a shiny new title and suddenly he’s the poster boy for Christian values in Europe? 🤔 Who knew a bit of holy bling could solve all our political dilemmas! 😂
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Looks like Mr. Tzitzikostas just leveled up in the holy game of titles! 🎩 Who knew being a commissioner could come with a side of ecclesiastical bling? 😏
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Just what we needed, another title to add to the political CV! Next up, “Supreme Overlord of Sustainable Snacks”? 🍪🤣
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Oh, what a surprise! Just when you thought titles couldn’t get any fancier, along comes “Lord Kyaisotor” to spice up the bureaucracy—because apparently, we needed another layer to the “honorary” cake! 🥳
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So, they’ve gone and made Apostolos a “Lord Kyaisotor” now? Next, they’ll be handing out titles like confetti at a Euro football match!
🤷♂️ -
Oh, wonderful! Just what Europe needs—a new title for a guy already drowning in bureaucratic accolades. Guess “Lord Kyaisotor” is the latest trend in political fashion! 😂
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