Vatican City : Pope Leo XIV has released an apostolic letter titled In unitate fidei ahead of his upcoming journey to Türkiye, marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea. The letter, published on the Solemnity of Christ the King, invites Christians across the world to renew their commitment to unity and to the profession of faith.

The letter is arranged in twelve points and reflects on the lasting importance of the Council of 325 AD, which affirmed the divinity of Jesus Christ and shaped the foundations of the Nicene Creed. Pope Leo will soon visit Ankara, Istanbul and Iznik, the historic city of Nicaea, as part of his anniversary pilgrimage.

A renewed focus on the Creed

Pope Leo writes that the Creed has been a shared treasure for Christians through the centuries. He highlights that, in every Sunday celebration of the Eucharist, the Nicene Creed continues to unite believers and strengthen them in times of uncertainty.

He notes that the world is facing conflict, natural disasters, injustice and widespread poverty, and says that the Creed offers hope amid these challenges.

Unity is greater than division

Reflecting on the ecumenical value of Nicaea, the Pope acknowledges the progress made in dialogue with Orthodox Churches and communities that arose from the Reformation. Though complete unity has not yet been achieved, he stresses that Christians already share much in common, including baptism and belief in one God who is Father Son and Holy Spirit.

He recalls the witness of Christian martyrs of different traditions and says their memory encourages all believers to become instruments of peace and reconciliation.

 The Nicene Creed as a guide for the journey

Pope Leo encourages Christians to move forward together by using the Nicene Creed as a steady point of reference. He calls for leaving aside theological disputes that no longer hold relevance and urges a spirit of dialogue and shared prayer.

Pope explains that this approach to unity does not mean returning to the conditions before divisions or simply accepting the present differences. Instead he describes it as a journey that looks to the future through cooperation and the sharing of spiritual gifts.

 Call to prayer

The letter concludes with an invitation for all Christians to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As the Church celebrates a Holy Year focused on Christ as hope, Pope Leo’s message aims to strengthen the spirit of unity as he prepares to visit the birthplace of the Nicene Creed.