Pope Leo XIV is set to make an historic visit to Istanbul, where he will meet with the Patriarch of the Eastern Orthodox Church to address long-standing divisions between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox communities. This meeting is intended to foster dialogue and reconciliation, highlighting the Pope’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Christian unity. The two faiths, which share a common heritage but have been divided for centuries, are expected to discuss ways to overcome historical conflicts and promote mutual understanding.
The visit coincides with heightened tensions surrounding the closure of the Theological School of Halki, a prestigious Orthodox seminary that has been shut down by the Turkish government. This decision has been a source of controversy, with many viewing it as an attack on religious freedom and cultural heritage. The Pope’s meeting with the Patriarch is seen as a symbolic gesture to address these grievances and reaffirm the importance of religious education and cultural preservation in Turkey.
Religious leaders and scholars are closely watching the developments, hoping that the Pope’s visit will lead to tangible steps toward resolving the ongoing disputes. The meeting is also expected to strengthen ties between the Catholic and Orthodox communities, fostering a spirit of cooperation that could have broader implications for interfaith relations in the region.