This morning at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV received Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who took part in the enthronement ceremony of the new pontiff on Sunday.
According to the Athens News Agency (ANA-MPA), during their meeting, Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the close fraternal relationship that existed between the late Pope Francis and the Ecumenical Patriarch. This relationship is founded on a shared dedication to protecting vulnerable populations and promoting world peace.
During their conversation, Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew agreed to hold a special meeting this year to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council, which was held in Nicaea, Asia Minor. This event is scheduled for the end of November, coinciding with the feast of St. Andrew, the patron saint of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The Pope may also visit the Phanar's patriarchal residence in Istanbul during this time.
Before leaving Rome, Patriarch Bartholomew planned to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he intended to pray at the tomb of the late Pope Francis.
The Orthodox Times notes, "This meeting underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches through mutual respect, cooperation, and shared witnessing in a troubled world."