Pope Leo Calls Christians to Renew the Creed’s Vision of Unity at Historic Iznik Gathering

During a landmark visit to the ancient city of Iznik, Pope Leo offered an appeal for Christian unity rooted in the doctrinal origins of the faith, returning to the site where bishops from East and West first formulated a shared creed seventeen centuries ago. Standing beside Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the lakeside ruins of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos, he emphasized that the divisions which continue to fragment Christian communities remain a profound scandal in a world already burdened by conflict and distrust. The commemoration of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea served as the central focus of his journey, drawing clergy from Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican and various Eastern Christian traditions. Leo reflected on the council’s historical purpose of resolving doctrinal disagreements and establishing a foundation for unity, noting that its relevance persists as humanity confronts violence and polarization that demand a renewed commitment to reconciliation. His remarks positioned the creed not simply as a historical formula but as a living profession intended to shape how Christians engage with one another and with the world.

The pope urged the Church to reject any invocation of religion that fuels hostility or serves political or ideological aims. He stated that the creed’s proclamation of belief in one God also requires viewing all people as brothers and sisters created in the divine image, making unity not only a theological truth but a practical imperative for Christian communities. Patriarch Bartholomew welcomed the pope and the other delegations by insisting that what endures from Nicaea is not imperial authority or vanished structures, but the abiding reality of shared faith. Both leaders acknowledged that despite progress in ecumenical relations, doctrinal questions and historical grievances still present obstacles. Leo framed the anniversary as an invitation to rediscover a common theological foundation rather than focus solely on past divisions. He also highlighted the council’s significance for contemporary concerns, warning that reducing Jesus Christ to a mere historical figure represents a new form of Arianism that undermines the core confession of the creed. His reflection included a reference to St. John Henry Newman’s insights on doctrinal development to illustrate how faith deepens over time while remaining anchored in truth.

Earlier in the day, Leo met Turkey’s small Catholic community at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul, where he encouraged them not to measure their importance by numbers, wealth or influence. The pope said the Church’s strength is found in its fidelity and witness, especially in regions where Christians are few and live alongside Muslim majorities. Local religious leaders noted that the pope’s commitment to peace and dialogue has been recognized positively by Muslim communities who appreciate his advocacy for stability amid regional conflict. As the pope prepares to continue his journey to Lebanon, his presence at Nicaea and his call for unity have set a tone emphasizing reconciliation, shared doctrine and a renewed sense of common purpose for Christians facing a fractured global landscape.