Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew mourns ‘precious brother’ Pope Francis

·

In a poignant tribute during the Paschal season, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew mourned the passing of Pope Francis, calling him “a precious brother in Christ” and “a true friend of Orthodoxy.”

“Throughout these twelve years of his papacy, he was a faithful friend, companion, and supporter of the Ecumenical Patriarchate… He left behind an example of genuine humility and brotherly love,” said the Patriarch.

Photo: CNS photo / Vatican Media.

Reflecting on their 2014 meeting in Jerusalem, just a year after Francis’ enthronement, Bartholomew recalled, “We knelt side by side in prayer before the Lord’s Tomb,” and shared that he had proposed a joint celebration in 2025 for the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea—an idea Pope Francis had warmly welcomed: “This is an amazing thought, an amazing idea and proposal.”

Though the Pope will not see that moment, Bartholomew affirmed that the Ecumenical Patriarchate will still honour the anniversary, while the Catholic Church’s role will depend on the new Pope’s direction.

“Eternal be your memory, Brother Pope Francis,” the Patriarch concluded, offering prayers for his soul and hope for a worthy successor.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘Una Faccia, Una Razza’: The politics of memory and the power of saying ‘OXI’

The annual homage to “OHI” Day stems from Greece's Prime Minister Metaxas firmly stating “OHI” (NO) to Mussolini's request.

The Master Miller and the art of olive oil perfection

The Master Miller’s mission has its roots in a philosophy that begins at the olive tree and reaches the heart of those who seek quality.

Brain regain: For the first time in 14 years, more people return to Greece than leave

For the first time in over a decade, Greece is witnessing a positive migration balance as more Greeks return home than emigrate.

When everyday Greeks said OXI: Resistance and survival during World War Two

“Aera!” (Air!) roared Greek soldiers as they clawed over jagged rocks on the brutal Pindus Mountains during Italy’s 1940 invasion.

Botanical Park of Crete: Rooted in fire, inspiring hope

The October 2003 fire started with electrical cables in a village near the Marinakis family’s olive groves.

You May Also Like

Preserving tradition: The Psaltries Choir of Melbourne and the beauty of Byzantine music

The Psaltries Choir of Melbourne stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural preservation within the realm of Byzantine music.

‘I want to be number one’: Andriana Petrakis earns title in inclusive SA Tennis Championships

A tennis player on the autism spectrum Andriana Petrakis has been competing for ten years and now wants to inspire others

Greece still ready to send aid to Mariupol as it continues to condemn Russian invasion

Greece is still prepared to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine’s embattled city of Mariupol when conditions allow it.