A Phanar hierarch and the Vatican's apostolic nuncio discussed the prospects for restoring church unity

Representatives of the Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Holy See held a meeting dedicated to deepening interchurch dialogue and seeking ways to “restore unity” between the two denominations. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to close cooperation and theological dialogue, according toVima Orthodoxias.

The meeting between Archbishop Elpidophoros and Apostolic Nuncio Gabriele Caccia took place on July 8, 2026, in the United States. During the talks, the archbishop congratulated the diplomat on his new appointment and emphasized that relations between the Phanar and the Vatican have been built over decades on a foundation of “mutual respect and theological cooperation.”

The central topic of discussion was the upcoming 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea. The participants noted that this anniversary serves as an important milestone for the entire Christian world. Special attention was given to Pope Leo XIV’s historic visit to Turkey, which, in the view of both sides, clearly demonstrates the value of a shared ecclesiastical tradition in the process of bringing the churches closer together.

Concluding the meeting, the parties agreed to continue active cooperation. Despite current international challenges, the Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Vatican expressed their intention to strengthen their “joint witness” and develop relations in a spirit of brotherhood, as evidenced by the regular exchange of official delegations on the feasts of Saints Peter and Paul.