After praying together, Pope Francis approached Patriarch Bartholomew, bowed his head, and asked his brother bishop to bless him and the Church of Rome. Bartholomew showed his fraternal care by caressing and kissing the pope's head.
This moment is a high mark in the ongoing and often tumultuous relationship between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox. Originally, the Church remained united for 1,000 years, but since 1054 A.D., the Catholic Church of the West and the Orthodox Church of the East have remained divided due to growing social and theological rifts. This division continues in our times.
Yet, many believe the Holy Spirit is moving our Churches toward unity once again. The pope and the patriarch have been striving towards authentic Christian unity. Our Churches must retain their unique identities and characteristics, all the while remaining one in faith, hope, and love.
We are called to pray for Christian unity. We appeal to Heaven as we continue the quest for unity between the Eastern and Western Church. And so we pray:
Lord God,
send your Spirit among us as we work together toward
Christian unity.
May old wounds and ancient hurts be healed.
May we recognize and value true diversity within our Church.
Let us soon proclaim the Gospel together, as one,
in truth and in love.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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