2026 Pilgrimage of Discovery Recipients Selected

We are thrilled to announce that the recipients of the 2026 Pilgrimage of Discovery have been selected! This year, 18 outstanding young leaders from across the country, representing every Greek Orthodox Metropolis, are selected to take part in this transformative journey, making this our largest cohort yet.

The Pilgrimage of Discovery is a unique program designed to immerse young Orthodox leaders, ages 23–30, in the history of Constantinople and the spiritual significance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, empowering them to discover their Orthodox roots. Through this life-changing journey, participants strengthen their faith, deepen their connection to the Holy Mother Church in Constantinople, and forge lasting bonds with the global Orthodox community. The program has grown remarkably since its inception, starting with five recipients in 2023, expanding to 16 in 2024, welcoming applicants from other Orthodox jurisdictions in 2025, and now reaching 18 recipients as we embark on our fourth pilgrimage this August.

Dr. John Fotopoulos, Ph.D., Chair of the Pilgrimage of Discovery Selection Committee, shared, "Each year we are humbled by the extraordinary caliber of applicants who apply to this program. Seeing representation from every Metropolis in this year's cohort is a testament to the reach and resonance of this mission. These 18 individuals embody the faith, character, and leadership that this pilgrimage was created to honor, and we cannot wait to witness their transformation in Constantinople."

As we prepare for our fourth Pilgrimage of Discovery, founder Hellena Chrones expressed her continued excitement: "Reaching every Metropolis and growing to 18 recipients is a milestone that fills my heart with gratitude. This program continues to exceed our hopes, and I am so proud of every person who poured themselves into their application. August cannot come soon enough."

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and all of our generous donors, whose unwavering support has made this fourth pilgrimage possible.

Stay tuned and follow us on social media as we unveil and spotlight the 2026 Pilgrimage of Discovery recipients!