Tracing the Epochal Journey of a Pioneering Ecumenical Figure
Born in the heart of Constantinople in 1913, His Eminence Metropolitan Meliton of Chalcedon, secularly known as Sotirios Hatzis, emerged as a pivotal figure in the Orthodox Christian world. His illustrious journey began with an ordination as a Deacon in 1934 by then Metropolitan Maximos of Chalcedon, who later ascended as the Ecumenical Patriarch. Meliton’s academic prowess shone brightly as he graduated with honors from the Theological School of Chalkis. His early career saw a rapid ascension, serving as Archdeacon in the Diocese of Chalcedon, and later being appointed Undersecretary of the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1938. The outbreak of the war in 1941 marked a challenging period, yet Meliton’s dedication led him to the significant role of Proistamenos of the Greek Orthodox Community of Manchester in 1943.
Metropolitan Meliton’s ecclesiastical journey reached a zenith with his ordination as Metropolitan of Imbros and Tenedos in 1950, a role he embraced with exceptional leadership, founding educational institutions and fostering Orthodox Christian teachings. His election as Metropolitan of Heliopolis and Thira in 1963 and subsequently as Metropolitan of Chalcedon in 1966, further cemented his legacy. A notable diplomat, Meliton was instrumental in Orthodox and inter-Christian relations, notably representing the Ecumenical Patriarchate at the Vatican during the historic lifting of anathemas in 1965. His profound influence extended beyond his passing on December 27, 1989, with his burial in the cemetery of Saint Ignatius in Chalcedon. A spiritual father to many, including Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Meliton’s contributions have left indelible marks on the modern trajectory of the Church of Constantinople.
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