Pope Leo XIV hosted Orthodox Christian leaders last week as part of his continuing efforts to reconcile the centuries-old divide between the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches.

During a June 28 visit to the Vatican, the pope emphasized respectful dialogue and cooperation as necessary steps toward achieving full visible unity with the Eastern Orthodox Church, Catholic News Agency reported.

The delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople was received at the Apostolic Palace ahead of the June 29 feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, a significant annual celebration in the Roman Catholic Church. This exchange is part of a longstanding tradition of interchurch visits that honor each church’s patron saints and reinforce shared Christian heritage.

Ecumenical Delegation Visits Vatican

This year’s Orthodox delegation was led by Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon. He is the president of the Synodal Commission for Relations with the Catholic Church, a key body responsible for fostering dialogue between the two churches. He was accompanied by the Most Reverend Fathers Aetios and Ieronymos.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate, based in Istanbul, is the spiritual center of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Recognized as “first among equals” among Orthodox leaders, the Patriarchate holds significant symbolic authority within Orthodoxy, though it does not have direct jurisdictional control over the entire communion.

Each year, the Ecumenical Patriarchate sends a delegation to Rome for the June celebration of Peter and Paul, considered founding figures of the Church. In return, the Vatican sends a delegation to Istanbul on November 30 for the feast of St. Andrew, the patron saint of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Pope Reaffirms Desire for Unity

During the meeting, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed his commitment to restoring “full visible communion” between the two churches. He noted that such unity could only be pursued with divine assistance and a commitment to openness, listening, and respectful conversation.

He told his guests he is open to suggestions that may help move the Churches closer to reconciliation, but emphasized such proposals must be pursued in collaboration with Catholic bishops who share responsibility for maintaining the unity of the Church.

The pope reflected on the major turning point that came in the 20th century, when then-Pope Paul VI and Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras initiated a serious theological and spiritual dialogue. He described their actions as brave and visionary, noting they laid the path for today’s ongoing relationship.

Centuries After the Great Schism

The split between the Churches dates back to 1054, commonly known as the Great Schism, caused by doctrinal, political, and cultural differences. Although still divided, both Churches have taken steps over the last few decades toward healing this separation.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his appreciation for the work of recent Roman pontiffs and ecumenical patriarchs in continuing the path to what he called “visible communion.” He praised the consistent efforts of Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, who has led the Ecumenical Patriarchate since 1991.

The pope recalled particular gestures of goodwill from Patriarch Bartholomew, including his attendance at Pope Francis’s funeral and the inaugural Mass of the new bishop of Rome. These actions, the pope said, reflect a deep fraternal connection between the two ancient Churches.

Symbols of Apostolic Brotherhood

The pope also highlighted the significance of exchanging delegations during the feast days of Peter and Andrew, the apostles who were biological brothers and remain spiritual symbols of the patriarchal sees of Rome and Constantinople.

He noted that these visits are more than formalities; they are meaningful signs that a spirit of communion already exists. He believes they serve as reminders of the early Church’s unity and offer hope that it can one day be restored.

In closing remarks, Pope Leo XIV thanked the Orthodox delegation for joining the Vatican’s solemn celebrations and asked them to deliver his cordial greetings and appreciation to Patriarch Bartholomew and the Holy Synod.

Looking Ahead in Faith and Dialogue

The pope concluded his address by invoking the intercession of Sts. Peter, Paul, and Andrew, as well as the Virgin Mary, guided the two Churches toward reconciliation. He encouraged both sides to remain steadfast in their pursuit of unity.

“May they accompany and sustain us in our efforts in the service of the Gospel,” the pope said, before offering his final word of thanks.

The visit serves as a continued affirmation of the Catholic Church’s intent to deepen its ties with the Orthodox world, not only through theology but also by reviving shared traditions and fostering mutual respect that transcends centuries of division.