Orthodox patriarch 'recovering well' in New York hospital

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians was recovering well in a New York hospital Thursday after a medical procedure delayed his return home to Turkey at the end of a U.S. visit, according to a doctor who treated him. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was in good spirits and feeling “very spiffy” after having a stent installed Wednesday to open up a clogged coronary artery, said Dr. George Dangas, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center. Bartholomew's trip included a visit with President Joe Biden meetings with Orthodox and other faith groups and a ceremonial blessing at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine near the World Trade Center which is replacing a church that was destroyed on 9/11. As patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew is considered first among equals among Eastern Orthodox patriarchs, which gives him prominence but not the power of a Catholic pope.