Pope calls for renewed commitment to Catholic-Orthodox dialogue

Published: 2004-06-28

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Despite continuing ecumenical problems, the Christian unity movement has taken big strides over the last 40 years and deserves a "renewed commitment" by Catholic and Orthodox churches, Pope John Paul II said. The pope made the remarks at a noon blessing June 27 as he prepared to welcome to the Vatican one of the chief spiritual leaders of all Orthodox Christians, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. Patriarch Bartholomew was to join the pope at a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica June 29, the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. The two leaders were to profess the faith together and share a sermon. The pope, speaking to several hundred pilgrims from his apartment window above St. Peter's Square, said he would welcome Patriarch Bartholomew with joy.

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