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Bartholomeos I Installed as Leader of 200 Million Orthodox Christians

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From Associated Press

In a colorful ceremony, Bartholomeos I was installed Saturday as the 273rd ecumenical patriarch of the world’s 200 million Orthodox Christians.

Bells pealed as Bartholomeos I walked through a throng of faithful into St. George Church.

The 51-year-old primate, elected Oct. 22 after the death of Dimitrios I, sat on a gilded wooden throne as members of the Holy Synod recited prayers and handed him the patriarchal scepter, symbol of his spiritual power and leadership.

Bartholomeos I has pledged to continue seeking common ground with the Vatican and aiding Orthodox churches in Eastern Europe.

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Among those attending the ceremony were President Bush’s brother, William, Greek Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis and Archbishop Iakovos of the Orthodox Church of North and South America.

Bartholomeos I presides over 14 autonomous Orthodox churches, including those of Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania and Russia.

Turkey considers the patriarchate a Turkish institution.

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