Pope Francis & Bartholomew: Highlights Of Their Bond | Latest News
Is the bond between Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew a beacon of hope in a fractured world? Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and a shared commitment to Christian unity, offers a powerful testament to the potential for dialogue and understanding across religious divides, representing a significant step forward in the ongoing quest for reconciliation between the Catholic and Orthodox churches.
The liturgical commemoration of the Apostle Andrew, the patron saint of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, traditionally provides an opportune moment for the exchange of fraternal greetings. Pope Francis, adhering to this custom, consistently extended his warmest wishes to His All Holiness Bartholomew, Archbishop of Constantinople and Ecumenical Patriarch. This practice underscores the deep respect and affection that has come to characterize their relationship.
Their connection resonates with the historic meeting of their predecessors, Pope Paul VI and Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras, who convened in Jerusalem fifty years prior. Just as those leaders sought common ground, Pope Francis and Patriarch Bartholomew demonstrated their shared determination to meet in the Holy Land, the very place where their shared Redeemer, Christ, lived, taught, died, rose again, and ascended into heaven.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Bartholomew I |
| Full Name | His All-Holiness Bartholomew I, Archbishop of Constantinople-New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch |
| Born | Dimitrios Archontonis, June 29, 1940, on the island of Imbros (Gkeada), Turkey |
| Ecumenical Patriarchate | Constantinople (Istanbul) |
| Education |
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| Ordination |
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| Episcopal Consecration | October 22, 1969 |
| Election as Ecumenical Patriarch | October 22, 1991 |
| Key Initiatives |
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| Interactions with Pope Francis |
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| Significant Visits |
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| Areas of Focus |
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| Notable Quotes |
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| Reference Website | Ecumenical Patriarchate Official Website |
This deep connection was clearly visible in many significant moments that punctuated their shared journey. A notable example is their meeting at the Our Lady of Arabia Cathedral in Sakhir, Bahrain in 2022, where they participated in an ecumenical meeting and a prayer for peace. Later in 2023, Pope Francis met with Patriarch Bartholomew in the library of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican.
Furthermore, the Ecumenical Patriarch was expected to attend the funeral service of Pope Francis in Vatican City, a poignant demonstration of their mutual respect and the special bond they shared. The world watched as heads of state and monarchs gathered, highlighting the global significance of this spiritual and diplomatic relationship.
In a deeply emotional statement made amidst the joy of the Paschal season, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew articulated his profound sorrow upon the passing of Pope Francis, whom he described as a cherished brother in Christ and a true friend of Orthodoxy. This tribute underscores the genuine affection and mutual respect that characterized their interactions over the twelve years of Pope Francis's papacy.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, referred to as "my dear brother" by Francis, has consistently shown himself to be an advocate of their special connection, further strengthening the commitment to the Christian unity. The late Pope was, according to Patriarch Bartholomew, an example of someone who exemplified values such as humility, closeness to those in need, dialogue, and peace, which are crucial in the modern era.
Their commitment to unity extended to their actions as much as their words. Pope Francis and Patriarch Bartholomew participated in an ecumenical meeting and prayer for peace at the Our Lady of Arabia Cathedral in Sakhir, Bahrain, in 2022. This event, like others, served as a visible demonstration of their shared dedication to interfaith dialogue and collaboration.
The Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, in a visit to Lisbon, Portugal, shared that Pope Francis was considering a visit to Turkey with him in 2025. This potential trip demonstrates a shared vision for deepening their relationship and advancing the ecumenical cause.
As Patriarch Bartholomew marked the 30th anniversary of his election, Pope Francis extended his best wishes in a congratulatory letter. In this message, the pope said he joined in giving thanks to the Lord for the many blessings that have been bestowed upon Patriarch Bartholomew's life and ministry. He also prayed that God would grant him health, spiritual joy, and abundant grace. This warm message serves as another example of the mutual respect and affection that marks their relationship.
The exchange of sentiments continued on the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle, with Pope Francis sending a message to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople. In this message, the Pope expressed his "fraternal affection," further cementing the importance of their personal connection.
On the occasion of St. Andrew the Apostle, patron saint of Constantinople, Pope Francis has sent a delegation to Istanbul to convey his greetings and the assurance of his fraternal affection to the Ecumenic Patriarch Bartholomew. This is further proof of their commitment to unity and the spirit of collaboration and understanding that permeates their relationship.
The historical importance of their collaboration is evident, in the joint declaration of Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill, also known as the Havana Declaration, was issued following the first meeting in February 2016 between Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow. This declaration signaled a new era of cooperation between the Catholic and Orthodox churches.
Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople have met frequently over the years. A notable instance was when they spoke to the faithful after the divine liturgy at the Ecumenical Patriarchate on November 30, 2014, in Istanbul. These meetings have served to advance the common goals of both leaders.
A future event is planned for the year 2025, when Pope Francis expressed his desire to visit the area of Nicaea to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council. The Pope has been quoted as saying that it is a trip he wholeheartedly desires to make, highlighting their shared vision for the future.
This relationship has also involved a shared commitment to the pursuit of peace. The ecumenical prayer vigil for peace at the Vatican in September 2023, is another example of how they worked together to promote peace and understanding in the world.
