Patriarchs of Constantinople and Syriac Orthodox Churches Meet to Discuss Ecumenical Ties
syriacpatriarchate.org
OCP News Service – 08/09/2025
Constantinople – Turkey: On September 5, 2025, His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II of the Syriac Orthodox Church visited His Holiness Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch, at his residence in Istanbul. The meeting underscored the historical relationship between the two churches and provided an opportunity to discuss shared challenges and a path forward for ecumenical relations.
During the visit, the two spiritual leaders spoke about the historical ties that connect their two ancient churches. They also discussed current issues impacting their ecumenical relations and the common challenges they face in witnessing to Christ in the modern world.
Patriarch Aphrem II was accompanied by a delegation of prominent archbishops, including:
- Mor Philoxenus Yusuf Cetin, Patriarchal Vicar of Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir
- Mor Dioscoros Benjamin Atas, Patriarchal Vicar of Sweden
- Mor Joseph Bali, Patriarchal Assistant
- Mor Christophoros Markose Abraham, Patriarchal Secretary for the Affairs of the Church in India
- Mr. Maher Kourieh
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the deep bonds of brotherhood and mutual respect between the Syriac Orthodox Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Source:
OCP News Service
