Surrounded on all sides by Islam, the beloved ecumenical patriarch Bartholomew continues to impact the world for Christ from his seat in Constantinople, a city central to Christian history. The Orthodox Church, that great beacon of the East, now boasts 300 million members worldwide. In one of the most remarkable tenures of the patriarchate, it has been more than 25 years since Bartholomew first accepted this ministerial position, which is considered "first among equals" of all Orthodox leaders around the world. He is viewed by many to be a strong, humble leader who is well loved across a wide variety of political and religious boundaries.

With unfettered access to church files, Bartholomew's personal notes and the patriarch himself, author John Chryssavgis has woven together a picture of a man who has longed to serve God, the church and the world his entire life. Through personal and institutional challenges, Bartholomew continues to strive toward unity within the Orthodox community and to build bridges to others. It is a task that can be as daunting as it is important. This book removes the veil that some may have placed upon this joyful man of God, who is anything but mysterious, as evidenced by the heartfelt contributions to the book from world dignitaries, influencers, and religious leaders:

• Pope Francis
• Pope Benedict XVI
• Rowan Williams
• Rabbi David Rosen
• George Stephanopoulos
• Jane Goodall
• Joe Biden Jr.
• Al Gore Jr.

Discover for yourself the man who embodies the meaning of the word ecumenical - while not altering one thing in what he believes - and experience his passion for God, the church, and the world.