Sacred Journeys: Documenting the Global Impact of the Greek Orthodox Church
These photographs capture the meaningful moments over four plus years as Archbishop Elpidophoros and Patriarch Bartholomew engage in a journey of faith and diplomacy across the globe. From significant meetings at the White House with President Biden to pivotal visits in Turkey, Jerusalem, Palestine, Jordan, and Panama, each photograph tells a story of unity, cultural exchange, and the vital role of faith leaders in contemporary global issues. Through intimate portraits and candid moments, these images aim to highlight their commitment to fostering dialogue, promoting peace, and strengthening the bonds between communities worldwide.
Photographs by Brittainy Newman
The Feast of Dormition
TRABZON, Turkey — The Feast of Dormition in Trabzon, Turkey, alongside the Patriarch captures a vibrant celebration of faith and tradition honoring the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The stunning backdrop of the Sumela Monastery sets the stage for joyful processions, colorful vestments, and heartfelt devotion from worshippers who come together to commemorate this significant event.
Unity in Istanbul
ISTANBUL, Turkey — The Patriarch meets Archbishop Stefan of the Macedonian Orthodox Church in Istanbul, symbolizing a significant moment of unity and collaboration between their communities. This historic encounter takes place at the Patriarchal Cathedral, emphasizing the commitment to dialogue and solidarity within the Orthodox faith. The meeting highlights the importance of fostering relationships among Orthodox leaders across borders.
Journey to the Holy Land
Middle East — This documentation chronicles Archbishop Elpidophoros's significant visit to the Holy Land, encompassing his journey through Palestine, Israel, and Jordan. It captures key moments at sacred sites, profound interactions with local communities, and the Archbishop's unwavering commitment to fostering unity and dialogue within the Orthodox faith, reflecting the rich spiritual heritage of the region.
The Spirit of Hellenism
PHOENIX, Arizona — The Folk Dance Festival (FDF) is a vibrant celebration of Greek culture, showcasing traditional dance and music from parishes across the country. Photographing the dance competition captures the dedication and joy of participants, highlighting colorful costumes and intricate choreography, while reflecting the festival's mission to preserve Greek traditions and foster connections within the community.
Panama Pilgrimage
PANAMA CITY, Panama — This documentation portrays Archbishop Elpidophoros's impactful visit to Panama, highlighting his time at the iconic Panama Canal, a meeting with the President, and heartfelt interactions with local residents seeking spiritual guidance. Through evocative images, the visit captures the Archbishop’s dedication to fostering faith and community, showcasing his commitment to addressing the spiritual needs of the Panamanian people while promoting unity within the Orthodox Church.
Diving into Faith
TAMPA, Florida — During Archbishop Elpidophoros's visit to Tarpon Springs, the traditional ceremony of the Blessing of the Waters takes center stage, where children dive into the water to retrieve the cross. This time-honored event symbolizes the manifestation of faith, courage, and community spirit, as the act of jumping into the water reflects the dedication of the young participants to uphold their Greek Orthodox heritage. For many, it represents a rite of passage and a spiritual connection to their ancestors, while also serving as a reminder of the importance of seeking blessings and guidance from God in their lives.
Holy Week with the Archbishop
NEW YORK, New York — Photographing Greek Easter with Archbishop Elpidophoros offers a unique opportunity to capture the profound spiritual and cultural significance of this cherished celebration. The lens focuses on Archbishop Elpidophoros as he leads the faithful through the solemn rituals of Holy Week, from the reflective services leading up to the resurrection to the joyous celebrations of Pascha. Each frame tells a story, highlighting moments of prayer, community, and tradition, such as the lighting of candles, the preparation of festive meals, and the vibrant midnight procession. Through these images, the connection between faith and heritage is vividly illustrated, capturing Archbishop Elpidophoros’s pivotal role in uniting the community in their shared beliefs and customs during this sacred time.
