His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew greets the faithful at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine on September 18, 2025. Photo by Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman.
A special initiative dedicated to youth and honoring the long-standing ministry of the Ecumenical Patriarch has been officially announced. On July 30, the Archon Ecumenical Patriarchate Global Initiative (The Sprouts Program) announced the inaugural Ecumenical Patriarch Poster Contest, inviting Orthodox students aged 5 to 18 to create original artwork.
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The contest honors the 35 years of spiritual leadership of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, as well as his unwavering commitment to the protection of the natural environment, which has earned him the title of the "Green Patriarch."
Who Can Participate
As this is the inaugural year of the institution, parishes and schools across the country are strongly encouraged to participate, giving young artists the opportunity to express their faith, creativity, and love for God's creation.
Eligible to participate are:
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Students of Sunday Catechetical Schools from all Orthodox jurisdictions under the spiritual guidance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
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Students of Orthodox Christian elementary and secondary schools.
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Students from other Christian schools with a strong Orthodox presence.
Recognition of Young Artists
Although twelve works of art—divided into three age categories—will be distinguished and awarded for their creativity and effort, the primary goal of the contest is broad participation, the cultivation of artistic expression, and honoring the Patriarch's legacy.
"The Ecumenical Patriarch Poster Contest is an opportunity to encourage creativity, celebrate youth, and highlight the talents of our remarkable Orthodox students," stated Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, National Commander of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. "We look forward to honoring these young artists during the Archons Weekend, October 15-18, 2026, in New York."
