The historic metropolis of Smyrna has inaugurated a new cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary, consecrated on December 8 by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. This beautiful church, originally built in the 17th century, has been granted to serve the needs of the Orthodox community in Smyrna after a request from Patriarch Bartholomew to Pope Francis. In his speech, Bartholomew highlighted the significance of the church and its role in the growing Orthodox flock in the city.