On October 18, 2025, the prestigious Athenagoras Human Rights Award will be bestowed upon Hon. Michael R. Pompeo, the 70th Secretary of State of the United States. With the blessings of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, this honour will be celebrated at a formal banquet hosted by the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate at the New York Hilton Midtown.
Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis, the National Commander of the Archons, praised Pompeo for his unwavering commitment to the rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and religious minorities in Turkey. He highlighted Pompeo’s awareness of the Orthodox Church’s significance, citing his visit in 2020 as a vital moment showcasing the need for religious freedom. His dedication throughout his career makes him a deserving recipient of this honour.
During Pompeo’s term as Secretary of State, he actively promoted religious freedom, exemplified by a significant event on July 17, 2019, where the State Department hosted a Ministerial on the subject. This gathering included Archbishop Elpidophoros and numerous congressional leaders, indicating Pompeo’s commitment to these issues. Further discussions occurred between Pompeo and Elpidophoros regarding the Ecumenical Patriarchate and regional affairs.
Even beyond his official tenure, Pompeo continued advocating for religious freedom, addressing the 4th Archon International Conference in Athens in 2024. He commended the Ecumenical Patriarchate for granting autocephaly to Ukraine’s Orthodox Church, while condemning the Russian government’s exploitation of faith to justify war and highlighting the plight of the Iranian people under their regime.
Pompeo also expressed discontent over Turkey’s conversion of the Chora Church into a mosque, viewing it as a coercive act against faith and cultural heritage. He asserted, “There is no reason that it should be desecrated.”
Pompeo’s remarkable career includes serving in high-profile roles: Secretary of State from 2018 to 2021 and CIA Director prior to that. A West Point graduate and Harvard Law alumnus, he is currently Senior Counsel for Global Affairs at the American Center for Law & Justice and the Chair at Liberty University’s Helms School of Government.
The Athenagoras Human Rights Award, established in 1986, honours the legacy of Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras, a champion of peace and unity among individuals and communities. This award has previously recognised various esteemed recipients like Yulia Navalnaya, Mother Teresa, and former President Jimmy Carter, among others. The dedicated Archons work to defend religious freedom and safeguard the future of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the vital spiritual centre for millions of Orthodox Christians globally.
Michael R. Pompeo, the former U.S. Secretary of State, will receive the Athenagoras Human Rights Award on October 18, 2025. Recognised for his commitment to religious freedom, especially regarding the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Pompeo’s advocacy spans his tenure and beyond. This prestigious award celebrates leaders who champion human rights, honouring a legacy of respectful dialogue and defence of faith.
The announcement of the 2025 Athenagoras Human Rights Award to Michael R. Pompeo highlights his lifelong dedication to championing religious freedoms. His impactful visits and advocacy while in office, as well as his continued efforts post-tenure, reflect an unwavering commitment to human rights, notably for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and global religious minorities. Established to honour compassionate leaders, the Athenagoras Award recognises an individual’s significant contribution to the fight for freedom of conscience.
Original Source: orthodoxtimes.com
