Ecumenical Patriarch facts for kids
The Ecumenical Patriarch is a very important leader in the Eastern Orthodox Church. He is the Patriarch of Constantinople, a city now known as Istanbul in Turkey. Many people see him as the main spiritual leader for Orthodox Christians around the world. He is sometimes called the Greek Patriarch of Constantinople.
It's important to know that there are other leaders in Constantinople too, like the Armenian Patriarch. Also, the Ecumenical Patriarch is different from the old Latin Patriarch of Constantinople, which doesn't exist anymore. The person holding this office is also the Archbishop of Constantinople.
The current Ecumenical Patriarch is Bartholomew I.
What is an Autocephalous Church?
Orthodox Churches are often called autocephalous (pronounced: aw-toh-SEF-uh-lus). This big word means that each Church is independent and has its own leader, usually a Patriarch. Most countries with a large Orthodox population have their own independent Church.
Because of this, the Ecumenical Patriarch is seen as "first among equals" (in Latin, primus inter pares). This means he is respected as the most senior leader, but he doesn't have direct power over all the other independent Orthodox Churches. He is more like a respected older brother or a chairperson who helps guide and unite the different Churches.
Images for kids
-
Emblem found atop the front entrance of the Patriarchate of Constantinople.
-
Throne room inside the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The Gospel is enthroned on the dais; the patriarch sits on the lower throne in front.
See also
In Spanish: Patriarca de Constantinopla para niños
