Pope Leo XIV Marks 1,700 Years of the Nicaea Creed in Turkey

IZNIK, TURKEY — In a memorable and touching occurrence, Pope Leo XIV convened with Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I and various Christian leaders this past Friday at Lake Iznik, honoring the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. This impactful assembly took place at the site of the 325 A.D. council responsible for shaping the well-known Nicaean Creed, reflecting a united faith across different Christian traditions.

Arriving by helicopter from Istanbul, the pope was welcomed by the resonant call to prayer from a nearby mosque, underlining the distinct interfaith context of this occasion. Church leaders from Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, Coptic, Armenian, Syrian, and Anglican backgrounds united in prayer over the newly unearthed stone foundations of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos, thought to represent the original council location.

A Unified Prayer

The ceremony elegantly showcased alternating Catholic and Orthodox hymns, promoting a moment of contemplation on their common beliefs. The pope referred to the Nicaean Creed as “the fundamental essence of the Christian faith,” highlighting its long-lasting capacity to unify Christians despite centuries of divisions originating from the Great Schism of 1054.

Responses from the Local Community

While many locals acknowledged the historical and spiritual relevance of the event, reactions varied. Suleyman Bulut, a 35-year-old local, expressed optimism regarding the assembly, emphasizing the importance of Muslims honoring religious heritage globally. On the contrary, shopkeeper Hasan Maral voiced apprehension, reflecting the intricate nature of religious feelings in predominantly Sunni Muslim Turkey.

Support for the Catholic Minorities in Turkey

Before heading to Iznik, Pope Leo engaged with Istanbul’s small Catholic community, encouraging them to find strength in their minority position. His visit encompassed the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit and a nursing home managed by the Little Sisters of the Poor, where he personally connected with residents, extending blessings and kind words.

Leo’s journey continues with ecumenical meetings and interfaith activities, including a visit to the Blue Mosque and a Mass at Istanbul’s Volkswagen Arena. This trip highlights the Vatican’s commitment to fostering dialogue, respect, and unity among diverse Christian groups while actively engaging with other faith communities.