ISTANBUL – Pope Francis joined Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, the spiritual leader of the world’s orthodox Christians, and other Christian leaders at the historic Church of Saint George in Istanbul on November 24, 2025, to offer a joint prayer for christian unity. The unprecedented gathering marked a important moment in efforts to bridge the centuries-old divide between the Eastern and Western branches of Christianity.
The meeting, held at a site revered as a cradle of christianity, underscores a renewed commitment to dialog and reconciliation amidst growing global challenges. The schism between the Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches, formalized in 1054, has long been a source of division within the Christian world. this display of unity aims to foster healing and collaboration, possibly influencing interfaith relations and offering a message of peace in a region marked by conflict.The leaders are expected to continue discussions on shared theological concerns and practical cooperation in the coming months.
The Pope arrived in Turkey on November 22, 2025, for a three-day visit focused on interreligious dialogue and strengthening ties with the Muslim-majority nation. He began his visit in ankara, meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and religious leaders. Sunday’s prayer service in istanbul represented the culmination of his efforts to promote understanding and cooperation between different faiths.
Saint George’s Church, located in the Phanar district of Istanbul, holds immense historical and symbolic importance for Orthodox Christians, serving as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate sence 1601. The joint prayer service included readings from scripture and hymns sung in both Latin and Greek, reflecting the shared heritage and aspirations of the two churches.
While concrete steps toward full communion remain complex, the Pope and Patriarch Bartholomew have cultivated a close personal relationship over the years, engaging in numerous meetings and joint initiatives. Their collaboration signals a willingness to overcome historical obstacles and work towards a future where Christians can worship together in unity.
