Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Calls for Peace at Ukraine Peace Summit

OCP News Service – 20/06/2024

Constantinople – Turkey: Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians worldwide, played a prominent role at the recent International Summit for Peace in Ukraine held in Bürgenstock, Switzerland.

The Patriarch delivered a powerful opening address, condemning war and emphasizing the importance of dialogue in achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. He quoted the biblical verse “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9) to underscore his message.

Patriarch Bartholomew also addressed the controversial issue of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He defended the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s decision in 2019 to grant autocephalous (self-governing) status to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, highlighting the need for Ukrainian Orthodox believers to have “their own ecclesiastical voice.” This move has been a point of contention with the Moscow Patriarchate.

The Patriarch concluded his remarks by expressing his support for a sovereign Ukraine and offering his condolences to those who lost loved ones in the conflict. He urged all participants to work together to achieve lasting peace.

Beyond his address, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew participated in several high-level meetings on the sidelines of the Summit. He met with prominent figures like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. These discussions likely focused on the ongoing conflict and potential paths towards peace.

This Summit marked a historic moment, as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was the only religious leader invited to participate. This signifies the growing recognition of the role faith-based leaders can play in promoting peace and reconciliation.

Source:
OCP News Service