Patriarch Bartholomew gets UK honorary degree for environmental advocacy

Patriarch Bartholomew at the University of Chichester, Britain. Photo: chi.ac.uk

Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople has received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from the University of Chichester in the UK. According to the University of Chichester, the honor recognized his environmental advocacy as well as his contributions to theological scholarship and inter-Christian and interfaith dialogue.

The primate of the Church of Constantinople received the honor during a week-long visit to the UK. The university said it recognized the Patriarch’s longstanding efforts to strengthen relations among Christian traditions and foster dialogue between different religious communities, as well as his advocacy for religious freedom and human dignity.

The university placed particular emphasis on the Patriarch’s environmental work. It described the head of the Phanar as a leading voice on environmental issues, human rights, and religious freedom who is known worldwide as the “Green Patriarch.” Through international conferences, partnerships with scientists, and public advocacy, the university said, he has helped draw greater attention to the connection between faith and environmental responsibility.

As the UOJ previously reported, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople arrived in London on September 14, 2026, for a meeting with King Charles III of the United Kingdom, who is Supreme Governor of the Church of England.

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