Speaking in Rimini, Italy, during an event marking 1,700 years since the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew stressed the importance of Christian unity in today’s divided world, delivering a strong message on war, justice, and faith.
He described the war in Ukraine as a “fratricidal conflict” and a “scandal for the Christian world, and especially for the Orthodox Church.” He stressed that “as Christians we must raise our voices together and bear steadfast witness to justice, because without justice there can be no peace.”
The legacy of Nicaea
Bartholomew highlighted the historical significance of the Council of Nicaea, which he called “a milestone in the history of Christianity.” The council’s affirmation that Christ is “Light from Light, true God from true God” continues to guide the faithful today, he said.
Bartholomew on Easter unity
Turning to the long-standing issue of Easter being celebrated on different dates, Bartholomew underlined that “in Nicaea it was decided that the Resurrection must be witnessed on the same day worldwide. Unfortunately, history prevented this. But if we are to remain credible, we must celebrate together.”
He noted that a joint study committee was formed with the late Pope Francis and remains active under Pope Leo XIV. “There are sensitivities,” Bartholomew said, “but all are open to the Holy Spirit showing us the need for unity.”
Remembering Pope Francis, meeting Pope Leo XIV
Bartholomew paid tribute to Pope Francis, calling him “not only Bishop of Rome but also a brother, with whom we worked for peace, dialogue, justice, the environment, and the marginalised.”
He added that he has already met twice with Pope Leo XIV and was impressed by the new pontiff’s commitment to continue his predecessor’s path. “We are particularly pleased that his first apostolic visit will be to Constantinople and Nicaea, to affirm our shared commitment to dialogue,” he said.
A world wounded by wars
Bartholomew also spoke about the global reality of wars- in Ukraine, Gaza, and elsewhere. “Behind these tragedies lie interests alien to the needs of the people,” he said. “They do not bring peace but prolong inhumane and destructive violence.”
He called on Christians not only to act for unity but also to rely on their strongest weapon: prayer. “We must never forget it,” he said.
In closing, Bartholomew said: “I gladly accepted the invitation to be here, to bear humble witness. Tomorrow I return to Constantinople, to my see.”
His message from Rimini was clear: there can be no peace without justice, and Bartholomew has faith that Christian unity can serve as a beacon of hope in a world still bleeding from war
Also read: ON THIS DAY: Council of Nicaea defined Christian Orthodoxy (325)
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
