Pope Leo XIV aims to commemorate key council anniversary in Turkey

• Pope Leo XIV has shown interest in participating in the celebrations of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, which are scheduled to occur in Iznik, Turkey.
• Patriarch Bartholomew I has suggested the dates of November 27-29 for the pope's visit; however, Leo XIV has yet to confirm these dates.
• The Council of Nicaea was the first ecumenical Christian council, convened by Emperor Constantine in 325 AD.

Pope Leo XIV has reiterated his wish to take part in the celebrations marking the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, which will be in Iznik, formerly Nicaea. This information came from sources at the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. During a meeting with the pope, Patriarch Bartholomew I proposed November 27-29 for the visit. Leo XIV has not yet provided feedback on these proposed dates but has expressed a strong desire to honour this historical milestone.

The Council of Nicaea, convened in 325 AD by Emperor Constantine, was the first ecumenical Christian council. Its importance to the Church and Christianity cannot be overstated as it set forth many fundamental principles of faith. Pope Francis had originally planned a trip to Turkey for this anniversary, but now Leo XIV seeks to mark this occasion.

Pope Leo XIV's visit to Turkey for the anniversary of the Council of Nicaea would hold significant symbolic value. It represents an opportunity to highlight Christian unity and encourage dialogue between different church traditions. The celebrations in Iznik will serve as a reminder of the historical importance of the Council of Nicaea for the entire Christian community.