The international conference, prepared by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in collaboration with the Volos Academy for Theological Studies and the Center for Orthodox Christian Studies of Fordham University (New York, USA), in honor of the late Metropolitan John (Zizioulas) of Pergamon, was held in Constantinople at the Grand Hyatt Istanbul Hotel from November 5th to 7th, 2024.
The conference was organized with the blessing of His All Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and aimed to highlight the significance of the work of the late Metropolitan of Pergamon for the Mother Church of Constantinople and for Orthodox Theology. It was noted that dozens of doctoral theses and studies have been dedicated to his work, and that ‘there is no serious theological book in the world that does not include a reference to John D. Zizioulas.’
The event gathered renowned theologians, scholars, and clergy from around the globe to reflect on the immense theological contributions of Metropolitan John. It began with an opening address by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who delivered a lecture on The Theological Legacy of Metropolitan John Zizioulas.
Metropolitan Ignatije of Branicevo also addressed the conference and conveyed the greetings and message of Serbian Patriarch Porfirije.
As the first moderator, Prof. Konstantinos Delikostantis, said that “since 1965 until today, all of Zizioulas’ writings have retained the same freshness. This is rare, to have such a youthful spirit so close to the truth in everything he wrote up to now. His book, “Remembering the Future”, is truly a work filled with optimism and hope. There were times when he would ask me to go and buy a book for him—one that had just been published—and he would respond like a small child receiving a beautiful toy. He was truly such a lively person, and he loved staying informed, reading new things. And whether he was speaking to you or engaging in communication, it was clear that he was constantly theologizing”.
The conference featured multiple sessions that highlighted various aspects of Metropolitan John’s life, thought, and theological influence. It explored a wide range of topics central to his theology, including his contributions to inter-Christian dialogues, the theological challenges of contemporary times, and the biblical and patristic foundations of his thought. Key themes such as the Holy Trinity, Personhood, Eucharist, and Eschatology were thoroughly examined.
- Session I: Prof. Dimitrios Linos discussed intimate, personal moments of Metropolitan John’s life. Among other things, he said that “Bishop John of Pergamon’s apartment was filled with books and his notes everywhere—not only on the dining table but also in the kitchen and on the floor. To discuss his medical matters with him, we had to carefully navigate through stacks of his books to find empty spots on the old sofa and the few chairs he had in his apartment.” Dr. Nikolaos Asproulis highlighted the influence of Fr. Georges Florovsky on Zizioulas’ theological evolution while Hieromonk Nicholas Sakharov explored the connection between St. Sophrony of Essex and Metropolitan John.
- Session II: Theologians examined Zizioulas’ theology in dialogue with modern philosophy. Bishop Ignatius of Požarevac analyzed ontology in Zizioulas’ work, and Prof. Paschalis Kitromilides presented him as a member of the Academy of Athens and said: “Metropolitan John Zizioulas made substantial contributions to the Academy of Athens, serving as a key theological figure for three decades. His work emphasized the need for theology to engage with philosophy, especially concerning issues of human dignity, environmental protection, and the ethical challenges posed by modern science. Notably, he advocated for bioethics and supported the election of prominent theologians, strengthening the Academy’s role in addressing critical moral and cultural challenges in society.”
- Session III: Dr. Aristotle Papanikolaou highlighted Metropolitan John’s theology as a basis for ethical reflection in “For the Life of the World.” Dr. Konstantinos Zorbas discussed Zizioulas’ theological perspective on the environment. Rev. Archimandrite Dr. Amfilochios Miltos spoke on the “One and the Many” and “corporate personality” as a necessary distinction in Metropolitan John Theology.
- Session IV: Dr. Ekaterini Tsalampouni and Prof. Alexis Torrance examined the biblical and patristic roots in Zizioulas’ theology, delving into his understanding of tradition and continuity.
- Session V: Elder Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon and Dr. Pantelis Kalaitzidis discussed Zizioulas’ contributions to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, especially his role in preparing the 2016 Holy and Great Council. Metropolitan Maximos of Selyvria spole about the function of the “Primus” in the Orthodox Church.
- Session VI: Metropolitan Job of Pisidia and Rt. Rev. Christopher Hill covered Zizioulas’ role in fostering Orthodox-Roman Catholic and Anglican-Orthodox dialogues, reflecting on his commitment to Christian unity.
- Session VII: Speakers examined Zizioulas’ involvement in the Ecumenical Movement, emphasizing his ecclesiological influence on the World Council of Churches. Prof. Dr. Stylianos Tsompanidis reflected on the contribution of Metropolitan John Zizioulas of Pergamon to the development of the ecclesiological vision of WCC, while Prof. Dr. Martin Illert spoke on Metropolitan John Zizioulas’ theological synthesis and Protestantism.
- Session VIII: The theological themes central to Zizioulas’ thought—such as the Holy Trinity, Personhood, and Eschatology—were explored. Prof. Dr. Stavros Yangazoglou pondered on the Holy Trinity and the theology of personhood in the work of the Metropolitan of Pergamon John Zizioulas, while Rev. Msgr. Prof. Emeritus Paul McPartlan spoke on the Eucharist, Church and catholicity in Metropolitan John Zizioulas’ Theology, while Bishop Maxim discussed the “Dialectic of History and Eschaton” in Zizioulas’ work.
- Session IX: In the closing session of the conference, Mrs. Maria Thalia Carras, a curator of contemporary art, presented on “Being as Communion: An Ecological Survival Technique,” exploring how Zizioulas’ theological ideas offer insights into ecological sustainability. Following her, Dr. Petros Papasarantopoulos, a writer and publisher, delivered a lecture titled “A Secular View of John Zizioulas’ Work,” providing a fresh perspective on Zizioulas’ theological contributions. Concluding the session, Dr. Eudoxia Delli from the Academy of Athens discussed “Theology and Science in the Work of Metropolitan John Zizioulas of Pergamon: Contemporary Challenges and Perspectives of Dialogue.” Dr. Delli highlighted the relevance of Zizioulas’ thought in bridging theological and scientific dialogues, addressing modern issues with Zizioulas’ unique perspectives on personhood, communion, and ecology.
Bishop Maxim of Los Angeles and Western America delivered a presentation titled “The Dialectic of History and Eschaton in the Theology of Metropolitan John of Pergamon.” At the outset, Bishop Maxim remarked, “In this conference, Metropolitan John has brought together people from all walks of life, a testament to his vast influence, which bridged spiritual, scientific, and humanistic realms, each touched by his insight and inspiration. He unveiled the Church’s nature not as a static system but as a living, breathing entity. More than a scholar, Metropolitan John was a prophetic voice—a peripatetic bishop with a vision of future horizons. Through this conference, we delve into the depths of his panoramic vision—a bold thinker whose wisdom transcended mere ideas.”
At the conclusion of the conference, Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon offered his concluding remarks:
“It is my honor to greet you at the conclusion of this conference in memory of Metropolitan John Zizioulas of Pergamon. Naturally, two days are not enough to cover everything about this remarkable figure—scholar, theologian, ecologist, and Metropolitan—who served the Church, theology, and science for so many years. I am certain there will be more opportunities, more conferences, and more symposia where we can continue these discussions. This symposium has offered us the chance to exchange views and insights.
On behalf of His All-Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, I simply extend my heartfelt thanks. I believe that, over the past two and a half days, we have all heard much and, undoubtedly, leave here wiser than we came. And that was our goal.
I would also like to emphasize that we did not come here to canonize Metropolitan John of Pergamon but to honor his memory and celebrate his contribution—through his theology and his life. Each of us, from different perspectives, has tried to engage with his work. Whether you are academics, theologians, or experts in ecology or the arts, everyone here has sought to contribute to this remarkable legacy.
I must especially thank Pantelis Kalaitzidis, as well as Metropolitan Ignatios of Demetrias, with whom we initially discussed this conference, and Metropolitan Maximos of Selyvria, a disciple of our Teacher. Our efforts, with the help of Professor Konstantinos Delikostantis, have all been directed toward organizing this event in the best possible way. Perhaps there were imperfections, but we endeavored for excellence.
Metropolitan John Zizioulas was a man of dialogue, and indeed, even from his place of rest, he watches over us and rejoices in what we have accomplished here over these two days. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the interpreters and the team that covered our event.
Arrangements have been made to publish the conference proceedings, and we will keep you informed. I believe this was a strong beginning. Of course, there may have been some oversights—perhaps we did not cover everything, just as some may remark that a certain topic was left out. But we will ensure continuity, as it is impossible to fully encompass the work of such a great theologian and teacher.
Thank you all warmly for your collaboration, your trust, and the considerate way in which you directed and chaired the sessions, creating an environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing their perspectives and insights.”
Stavros Yangazoglou on the John Zizioulas Foundation
“I would also like to extend my thanks to the organizers of this outstanding symposium, which, as the first of its kind, fittingly began at the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. We are working on holding a similar symposium at the Academy of Athens, coordinating with Mr. Kitromilides to make this possible in 2025.
However, I want to mention some additional initiatives that are important to highlight. A foundation has been established in the name of Metropolitan John of Pergamon, where one can find extensive resources on Metropolitan John’s work. Nearly all cover pages of his publications in various languages are available, along with links to references and publications worldwide. This effort is largely due to the dedication and love of another of his disciples, Bishop Maxim of Los Angeles and Western America. The foundation is developing a comprehensive volume on his career, studies, and works, richly documented with photos and other records.
Within this foundation, a new journal is being prepared, edited by another student of Metropolitan Pergamon, Nikos Askoulis. The journal will primarily be electronic, with print copies available. Additionally, through the website www.zizioulas.org, visitors can explore further projects and initiatives. This foundation aims to provide researchers, scholars, and all those interested in Metropolitan John’s work with the tools to engage and collaborate. The goal is not only to keep his legacy alive but also to inspire future generations, as the theology of Pergamon is clearly not a theology of the past but, above all, a theology for the future.”
Anyone interested in the conference presentations can watch the recorded symposium video here.
