Bartholomew to Trump: We hope the U.S. will defend religious freedom

Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. Photo: ec-patr

On November 7, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constaantinople sent a letter of congratulations to newly elected President of the United States Donald Trump, reports the ec-patr.org website.

"Recognizing the immense responsibilities that come with such leadership, we pray that your decisions will be guided by wisdom and compassion, along with the strength needed to uphold harmony and security in your great and God-guarded nation," wrote the Patriarch.

He added that the Ecumenical Patriarchate, with its history and unwavering commitment to dialogue and reconciliation, continues to be a steadfast supporter of all efforts to foster peace and mutual understanding among peoples of diverse cultures and beliefs.

"We hope that under your leadership, the United States will continue to uphold the cause of religious freedom and human dignity – values that deeply resonate within the Orthodox Christian tradition and all religious communities," the letter from the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople stated.

As the UOJ previously reported, the head of the Phanar praised the authorities of Turkey and Greece for their "happy rapprochement".

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