Pantelis Boumpouras received the title of Archon from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in Constantinople in the Cathedral of St. George the Victorious. It should be noted that the title of Archon is the highest award in the Orthodox Church, which is conferred on laymen for outstanding service to the church and society.
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Holy Vespers on the occasion of the Feast of Orthodoxy Sunday on March 23.
In his speech, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew noted that in the person of the new Archon, "the Great Church, the supreme institution of the Nation and Orthodoxy, which stands firm in the City of Cities and in the world of native traditions and the truth of faith in Christ, love that does not seek its own, and hope that does not decline, is growing, gaining a new valuable partner and assistant in its good witness in the world and in its social work."
Pantelis Boupouras is one of the largest philanthropists in Ukraine, with projects including the construction of the Greek Park in Odesa, funding for participation in the Young Leaders program at Harvard University's Kennedy School, and the creation and funding of New Greek language courses in a number of Ukrainian educational institutions. Since the beginning of hostilities on the territory of Ukraine in 2014, he has been providing large-scale humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian army and the affected civilian population. He and his family are currently living in Odesa and do not intend to leave the city because of the war. His construction company, GEFEST, is working to provide jobs for Ukrainians and support the economy of our country.
"You care about your brothers in need, and especially, over the past two years, about the long-suffering, brave and pious Ukrainian people. This practical support and love reveals the greatness of the soul, which always exceeds human measure. You contribute to the construction, repair and restoration of holy churches, piously support the activities of holy metropolitanates and parishes. The Church needs such people," Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew also drew special attention to Mr. Boumpouras' many years of charitable work in Greece and Ukraine.
In response, Mr. Pantelis Boumpouras thanked His Holiness for the special honor bestowed upon him and assured him that he would resolutely defend the rights of the Mother Church.
