The 'ecumenical' debate grows ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Turkey

Following the passing of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV's planned visit to the Iznik district of Bursa is scheduled to mark the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, which holds great significance for the Christian world. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is expected to send an official invitation letter to the Pope for this visit to take place.

Fener Greek Patriarch Bartholomew's self-identification as 'ecumenical,' in a manner deemed contrary to the laws of the Republic of Turkey, has been criticized by the Turkish Orthodox Patriarchate. Patriarchate Press Spokesperson Selçuk Erenerol stated that the commemoration Bartholomew and the Pope wish to hold in Iznik cannot be considered merely a religious meeting. Erenerol expressed that this situation poses a threat to national sovereignty and indivisible integrity.

REACTION FROM THE TURKISH ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE

Erenerol emphasized that the head priest of the Fener Greek Church participates in international events using the title of 'Ecumenical Patriarch' in violation of the Treaty of Lausanne, and that this is unacceptable. Stating that the alignment of the Vatican and the Fener Greek Church could strengthen claims of 'ecumenicity,' Erenerol said that the Republic of Turkey must prevent this situation.

THE HISTORIC COUNCIL OF NICAEA

The Council of Nicaea, convened by Roman Emperor Constantine I in 325 AD, is considered a major turning point in the history of Christianity. One of the most important results of the council was the creation of the Nicene Creed and the acceptance of the belief that Jesus is the Son of God. This historic event played a major role in shaping Christian doctrine.