Patriarch Bartholomew speaks of changing Easter date for dialogue with RCC

Pope Leo and Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: Archons of the Phanar website

In an interview with Vatican News, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew stressed the importance of Christians celebrating Easter on one date.

He stated: “To deserve trust as Christians, we must celebrate the Resurrection of the Savior on the same day” together with Catholics.

“Together with the late Pope Francis, we commissioned a committee to study this issue. A dialogue has begun,” the Patriarch said. He added that progress must be made with caution, as there are differing views among the Churches, and new divisions must be avoided.

Patriarch Bartholomew emphasized that changing the date of Easter in Orthodoxy could only be decided by a new Ecumenical Council.

“Still, we are all open to listening to the Spirit, who, we believe, has clearly shown us this year how essential it is to unify the date of Easter,” he concluded.

It should be recalled that Patriarch Bartholomew recently expressed his hope that Pope Leo would take interest in a common Easter.

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