The Head of State of the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV, held a meeting with bishops, priests, deacons and clergy at the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul’s Harbiye district.
The Pontiff held a service and then addressed those present with a speech.
Leo XIV noted that “the apostles of Jesus moved to Anatolia, and cities such as ancient Ephesus and Antakya in the territory of modern Turkey throughout history and have hosted prominent figures of the Christian world.”
The Pope recalled that today Turkey is home to various Christian communities.
Leo XIV expressed gratitude to international organizations that supported the efforts of the church in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that occurred in Turkey in February 2023.
Pope Leo XIV will also visit France during his stay in Istanbul shelter.
The Head of State of the Vatican is in Turkey on an official visit