The visit included an important meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, the first official meeting between the Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of Constantinople, underscoring efforts to strengthen dialogue and relations between the churches.
At St. Mark Church, Pope Tawadros checked on the congregation and spoke about faithfulness in the Bible and spiritual life during a gathering attended by representatives of Christian denominations in Istanbul alongside the papal delegation.
On Sunday, the pope attended the patriarchal and synodal Divine Liturgy celebrated by Bartholomew I at St. George Church in the Phanar district, the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul, in the presence of Egypt’s ambassador to Turkey, Wael Badawy, and members of the accompanying delegation.
Following the service, Bartholomew welcomed Tawadros’ visit, describing it as a “true blessing” that reflects the continued guidance of the Holy Spirit in leading churches toward the fullness of apostolic faith.
He said relations between Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches hold a “distinct and unique place” within the broader ecumenical movement, noting that decades of theological dialogue have clarified a shared understanding of the doctrine of the Incarnation.
He stressed that these agreements should not remain confined to theological documents, but must be received and lived within churches both in their historic homelands and diaspora communities, warning that continued separation risks presenting a “false witness” to their shared convictions.
Drawing on the example of the Myrrh-bearing women, Bartholomew called for translating theological consensus into practical steps toward unity, expressing hope for the day when churches gather around a single Eucharistic table.
He also urged prayers for “a just and lasting peace,” calling for an end to hostilities, protection of civilians, and preservation of creation.
The patriarch pointed to the joint Easter celebration last year as a “tangible witness” to progress toward reconciliation, expressing hope that such unity would become a consistent and visible reality.
For his part, Tawadros thanked Bartholomew for the warm welcome and hospitality. Reflecting on the Gospel reading, he quoted St. Paul: “Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ and manifests through us the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.”
He concluded by praying for peace and that the church be filled with the “fragrance” of Christ’s knowledge, expressing hope that believers everywhere would share in the joy of the Resurrection.
During the visit, the pope also met members of the synodal committee for inter-Christian and interfaith dialogue, and a luncheon was held in his honour at the headquarters of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
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