Pope Leo XIV Commemorates Historic Christian Synod in Turkey

Pope Leo XIV marked a significant anniversary in Christian history on Friday, gathering with patriarchs and clergy from both Eastern and Western traditions at a site in Turkey where a pivotal synod took place in 325 A.D. They came together to pray for Christian unity.

At Lake Iznik, where the Council of Nicaea was held, Leo, along with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I and other Christian leaders, recited the Nicene Creed—a declaration of faith that continues to resonate with millions today. Leo emphasized its importance, stating it plays a crucial role in Christians’ journey towards full communion. He urged everyone to strive against the divisions that exist, echoing the desire for unity that Jesus himself prayed for.

This prayer service highlighted Leo’s visit to Turkey, marking his first trip as pope.

A Momentous Occasion in Christian History

The Nicene meeting occurred when the Eastern and Western Churches were still united, but this changed with the Great Schism of 1054, which was primarily about papal authority. Despite this divide, the Nicene Creed remains accepted by Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and many Protestant groups, making it a cornerstone of Christian belief.

Celebrating the origins of the Creed with spiritual leaders from different Christian denominations was seen as a historic milestone in the long struggle for unity. “The Nicene Creed is not merely a minimal symbol, but rather, it embodies the essence of our Christian existence,” Bartholomew remarked.

Opening the prayer gathering, he conveyed a sense of duty to keep the faith expressed by the early Church Fathers alive. “We return to this foundation of Christian faith to take steps forward,” he noted.

A Prayer for Unity

Emperor Constantine, after years of civil conflict, summoned bishops from across the Roman Empire to a gathering. Although he did not convert to Christianity until later, by 325 he was already extending tolerance towards Christians. The Nicene Creed, which many Catholics recite today, begins, “I believe in one God, the Father Almighty…”

The service, featuring a blend of Catholic and Orthodox hymns, was conducted at the site of the ancient Cathedral of St. Neophytos, where recent discovereies have revealed its stone foundations beneath the lake’s receding waters, believed to be the site of an earlier church from 1,700 years ago.

Joining Leo and Bartholomew were numerous other clergy from various Christian denominations, including the Greek Orthodox Church, the Coptic Church, and more. Leo urged that all Christians must reject the misuse of religion to legitimize violence or extremism. “We should instead pursue a path of dialogue, cooperation, and fraternal encounters,” he stated.

A Brief Protest

In a predominantly Sunni Turkey, a small protest was staged before the prayers, with about 20 members of a political party expressing concerns over sovereignty and national identity. They voiced opposition to any efforts perceived as establishing a “Greek Orthodox state similar to the Vatican.” However, the gathering disbanded peacefully soon after.

While some residents like Suleyman Bulut acknowledged the significance of the event for Christians, others, such as shopkeeper Hasan Maral, expressed discomfort about the pope’s visit. “It feels contradictory to my beliefs,” he commented.

Supporting Turkey’s Catholic Community

On the first full day in Istanbul, Leo encouraged Turkey’s small Catholic community, estimated at around 33,000 amid a population of 85 million, mostly Sunni Muslims, to find strength in their smallness. He received an enthusiastic welcome at the Basilica of the Holy Spirit with cheers of “Papa Leo.”

“The logic of smallness is the true strength of the church,” he stated. He also recognized the challenge of serving the vulnerable immigrant population in the country.

Afterward, Leo visited the Little Sisters of the Poor, who provide care at a nursing home. Sister Margret described him as “simple” and “at home,” noting the kind words and blessings he shared, reflecting the event’s significance for all involved.

On Saturday, Leo is set to continue his ecumenical mission by meeting with Bartholomew and other Christian leaders, while also planning to visit the Blue Mosque and hold a mass at Istanbul’s Volkswagen Arena. He will then head to Lebanon for the final leg of his journey.