All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in HamiltoN

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It was on May 29th 1453 that the City of Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks, and the Roman Empire came to an end. The luminaries of civilization were not entirely extinguished, but were greatly dimmed. They became the harbingers of the Renaissance in the West. On May 29th, 1998 -545 years after the fall of Constantinople- the head of Orthodoxy, who still resides there, came to Hamilton.

At the invitation of Mayor Robert Morrow, the Patriarch with His Entourage arrived in the City of Hamilton at 11:15am. Archbishop Sotirios of Canada wrote on the visit:

"The scene is indescribable. A multitude of people are standing in the square before the City Hall. Hundreds of Orthodox young people -Greeks, Serbs, Bulgarians, Russians, Romanians, Arabs- are all dressed in their traditional ethnic costumes, and are showering the Patriarch with flower petals as He passes before them. The Mayor welcomes the Patriarch to Hamilton. The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra plays the "Hallelujah" from Handel's Messiah. The sun is shining and everything is radiant and joyous! Mayor Bob Morrow, speaks with much enthusiasm and wonder about the Patriarch and Orthodoxy. The Patriarch responds and thanks the Mayor for this tumultuous welcome. The Mayor requests that Metropolitan Sotirios also address the crowd. The Metropolitan states that it was the love and persistence of the Mayor to bring the Patriarch to Hamilton that made it all possible. Gifts are changed, and among others, a request from the Christians of Pakistan for support and protection of their human rights. The Greeks chant: "To Bartholomew, the All Holy Ecumenical Patriarch, Many Years!". As the Patriarch and His Entourage rise, the strong voice of a 90-year old Serbian Orthodox Priest is heard chanting: "Many Years to You, Master!"."

During His All Holiness' visit to Hamilton City Hall, Mayor Bob Morrow bestowed the distinguished honor of honorary citizenship upon the Ecumenical Patriarch, recognizing His significant contributions to global peace and religious harmony. In a ceremony filled with reverence and respect, Mayor Morrow highlighted the Patriarch's unwavering commitment to fostering dialogue among different faiths and promoting tolerance and understanding worldwide. This symbolic gesture not only celebrated the Patriarch's exemplary leadership within the Orthodox Christian community, but also affirmed Hamilton's dedication to embracing diversity and inclusivity. As the Ecumenical Patriarch graciously accepted this prestigious recognition, the event served as a testament to the city's appreciation for his tireless efforts in advocating for unity and compassion across cultures and religions.

Two years later, the AHEPA Family of Hamilton came together in a poignant gesture to honor the memorable visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch in 1998 by placing a commemorative plaque in Peace Park. This act not only paid homage to the Patriarch's significant presence in the city but also served as a timeless reminder of the enduring impact of his visit on the community. The plaque, stands as a testament to the values of peace, unity, and understanding championed by the Patriarch during His brief visit in Hamilton. 

For our Community, whenever each one of us wanders through Peace Park, we are reminded of the profound connection forged between the city of Hamilton and our Patriarch, which is inspiring a continued commitment for all of us into fostering harmony and goodwill for generations to come. 

Bartholomew in Canada May 25th-June 2nd 1998, Έκδοση Ελληνικής Ορθόδοξης Μητρόπολης Τορόντο (Καναδά), p.111