Pope Leo XIV and Orthodox Leaders Commemorate 1,700th Anniversary of Council of Nicaea in Turkey

Pope Leo XIV, accompanied by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I and other Christian leaders, led a prayer service in Iznik, Turkey, to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea. The 325 A.D. council was pivotal in establishing the Nicene Creed, a foundational statement of Christian faith still recited today.

Addressing the gathering near the ruins of the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of the creed in the journey toward full communion among Christians. He urged believers to "overcome the scandal of the divisions that unfortunately still exist and to nurture the desire for unity for which the Lord Jesus prayed and gave his life."

The Pope also condemned the use of religion to justify war, violence, or any form of fundamentalism or fanaticism, advocating instead for paths of fraternal encounter, dialogue, and cooperation.

The ecumenical service was a highlight of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Turkey, which included meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other religious leaders. The visit aimed to promote peace and unity amid ongoing global conflicts.

Local reactions in Iznik were mixed. While some residents welcomed the event, a small group from a Turkish Islamic party staged a peaceful protest, expressing concerns over Turkey's sovereignty and national identity.

Pope Leo XIV's visit continues with further interfaith and Christian leader meetings before traveling to Lebanon.