A Historic Meeting at the Apostolic Palace
Newsroom
On Thursday, February 6, 2026, the Consistory Hall of the Apostolic Palace served as the backdrop for a significant ecumenical gathering. Pope Leo XIV welcomed priests and monks from the Oriental Orthodox Churches, delivering a global message of reconciliation and spiritual solidarity.
The meeting, organized by the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, included representatives from the Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Syriac, and Malankara Orthodox Churches. The participants visited Rome as part of a study tour, reaffirming the growing bonds between these ancient Christian denominations.
The Call to "Disarm" the Heart
In his address, the Pontiff used a particularly striking metaphor, exhorted the faithful to "disarm" their hearts of prejudices. According to the Pope, Christian unity is not merely a diplomatic arrangement but a necessity rooted in a shared foundation in Jesus Christ.
"The historic and cultural differences among the churches form a wonderful mosaic of our shared Christian heritage," he stated.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized that these differences should not be seen as obstacles, but rather as a wealth that enriches a collective faith.
One Body, One Spirit
Recalling the recent Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the Pope cited the verse from St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians: "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling."
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Mutual support among Christians of different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds.
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Growth in shared faith, with Christ as the ultimate source of peace.
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Strengthening the "mystical body" of Christ, transcending geographical and dogmatic boundaries.
