Ecumenical Patriarch weighs in on East-West schism, Russian invasion of Ukraine, recent popes
August 14, 2024
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CWN Editor's Note: Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, who holds a primacy of honor among the Orthodox churches, said in an interview that he prays “intensely” for the end of the Catholic-Orthodox schism and expressed “hope for a final common agreement” on the date of Easter.
The Ecumenical Patriarch also renewed his criticism of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
“The Russian invasion into a sovereign country in no way can be called a ‘holy war,’ but it actually is a ‘diabolic’ one,” he said. “We believe that only through sincere dialogue and peaceful negotiations can we see a real solution in Ukraine. In order for dialogue to have a realistic perspective, the war must end immediately.”
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, installed in 1991 as Archbishop of Constantinople, paid tribute to the last three popes.
“Each pope has been a dear friend and partner in promoting Christian unity,” he said. “John Paul II had an extraordinary charisma and deep spirituality. Benedict XVI possessed a brilliant theological mind. Francis embodies Christ-like humility, simplicity and care for the poor and marginalized.”
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