Pope Leo XIV has formally granted ecclesiastical communion to the newly elected Patriarch of Baghdad of the Chaldeans, Patriarch Polis III Nona, marking a significant moment of unity between the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Apostolic See. The decision follows a request submitted by the patriarch after his canonical election by the Synod of Bishops of the Chaldean Church, which gathered in Rome on April 12, 2026. The Pope’s response was made public by the Holy See Press Office and described as an expression of deep joy and spiritual communion within the wider Catholic tradition.
In his letter, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that ecclesiastical communion is not merely a formal recognition but a profound bond that expresses full unity with the Apostolic See. He described it as a shared service to the unity of the Church and the building up of the Body of Christ. The Pope’s words highlighted both the theological and pastoral dimensions of this act, reinforcing the idea that communion within the Church is rooted in shared faith, mission, and responsibility across diverse rites and traditions that together form the universal Catholic Church.
The Pope also offered a prayerful message to Patriarch Nona, asking that his ministry be guided by pastoral care and strengthened by the example of Christ. He encouraged the new patriarch to lead the faithful with faith, hope, and charity, invoking the image of Christ’s Heart as the model for ecclesial leadership. The message underscored the importance of unity within the Chaldean Church, particularly as it continues to serve communities across its traditional homeland and an expanding global diaspora shaped by migration and displacement.
Pope Leo further reflected on the spiritual heritage of the Chaldean Church, recalling its ancient apostolic roots and the enduring testimony of its martyrs and confessors. He noted that the election of Patriarch Nona coincided with the liturgical remembrance of the Risen Lord’s encounter with Saint Thomas, a moment deeply embedded in the spiritual identity of the Church. In this context, the Pope highlighted the symbolism of faith emerging from doubt and suffering, presenting it as a source of encouragement for a community that continues to face hardship in various regions of the world.
The message concluded with a prayer for the Holy Spirit to sustain the patriarch’s mission and for the Chaldean Church to continue its evangelizing work with renewed strength. Pope Leo extended greetings to bishops, clergy, religious members, seminarians, and lay faithful, acknowledging the challenges faced by many Chaldean communities. He expressed hope that their witness, shaped by resilience and devotion, would continue to strengthen the unity of the Church while carrying forward its mission in both its historic heartlands and across the global diaspora.
