ISTANBUL, Turkey (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople met at the patriarchal seat in the ancient Phanar quarter on Saturday (Nov. 29) to sign a joint declaration affirming their commitment to achieving communion between the two churches.
“We continue to walk with firm determination on the path of dialogue, in love and truth, towards the hoped-for restoration of full communion between our sister Churches,” the declaration read.
While seeking theological rapprochement, the two Christian leaders charted a parallel path to unity through practical peacemaking and environmental work. The statement also recognized personal relationships, prayer and “joint work in all those areas where cooperation is already possible” as ways to advance mutual understanding.
The joint declaration made an impassioned appeal for peace, urging world leaders “to do everything possible to ensure that the tragedy of war ceases immediately,” and encouraged faithful to “reject any use of religion and the name of God to justify violence.” Interreligious dialogue, the two church leaders agreed, is an essential path toward unity and tolerance.
“While we are deeply alarmed by the current international situation, we do not lose hope,” the document read, recalling the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, when early Christian bishops laid down the foundations of the C …