Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called on Christians around the world to come together in faith and unity as they prepare to mark the 2,000th anniversary of the Redemption of Christ in the year 2033. Speaking at the Vatican on Tuesday, the Pope said the milestone should become a shared celebration for all Christian communities and a renewed opportunity to strengthen relationships across different traditions.
The Pope made the appeal while welcoming a delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, which was visiting Rome for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. The annual exchange of delegations between the Catholic Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate has become a long standing tradition that reflects the commitment of both Churches to deepen dialogue and strengthen ties.
Greeting the visitors, Pope Leo expressed his joy at receiving the delegation and said their presence reflected the close bond between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church of Constantinople. He also conveyed his warm greetings to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and thanked him, along with the members of the Holy Synod, for continuing the tradition of sending representatives to Rome for the feast of Saints Peter and Paul.
The Pope recalled his own visit last year to the Patriarchal Church of Saint George at the Phanar in Istanbul during the Feast of Saint Andrew. He said that visit, along with his meetings with Patriarch Bartholomew, helped strengthen their friendship and allowed them to discuss important issues affecting Christians around the world.
According to Pope Leo, both Church leaders share a sincere desire to continue working towards full unity among Christians. He said that despite differences that remain between Christian traditions, there is already a strong foundation of shared faith that can guide future progress.
The Pope also reflected on the recent commemoration of the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, one of the most important events in Christian history. He described the anniversary as a powerful reminder of the faith that Christians already hold in common through belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son of God, and the Holy Spirit.
He said the Nicene Creed remains a lasting symbol of Christian faith and should continue to serve as the foundation for efforts to strengthen unity among Churches. The Pope explained that the Creed offers an example of unity while respecting the legitimate diversity that exists among different Christian traditions.
Turning to the challenges facing the modern world, Pope Leo said Christians have an important responsibility to offer hope and peace during a time marked by war, growing political division, and increasing social and cultural tensions. He said believers who are united in faith can become a credible witness to peace and contribute to building a more peaceful and just world.
The Pope warned that the current global situation places not only the credibility of the Christian message at risk but also the future of humanity. For that reason, he stressed that greater cooperation among Christians is more necessary than ever.
He pointed to several areas where Christian communities should work together, including promoting peace, encouraging the responsible use of new technologies, and protecting the environment. He said these shared responsibilities arise directly from the teachings of Jesus Christ and should inspire Christians to act together for the common good.
Pope Leo also underlined the importance of defending the dignity and value of every human life. He said particular attention must be given to children, the poor, and those who are most vulnerable. Caring for those in need, he added, is not simply a moral duty but an essential part of Christian faith that will shape both present actions and eternal destiny.
As he concluded his address, the Pope once again thanked the delegation for their visit and praised the Ecumenical Patriarchate for its continued commitment to promoting Christian unity. He assured the delegation of his prayers and expressed his hope that the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church would continue to grow stronger.
Looking ahead to the Year 2033, Pope Leo said he hopes Christians from every tradition will journey together towards the celebration of the 2,000th anniversary of Christ's Redemption. He encouraged believers across the world to rediscover their shared calling to bear witness to the Risen Christ and to become a united sign of faith, peace, and hope for a world facing many challenges.