Orthodox and Catholic bishops make joint visit to Mount Athos

Orthodox and Catholic delegation during the pilgrimage to Mount Athos. Photo: Avona

Metropolitan Ghattas Hazim of Kuwait and Baghdad of the Antiochian Patriarchate visited Mount Athos together with Catholic Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia. The trip took place from September 6 to 9, 2026, with the blessing of the Patriarch of Constantinople, according to the Czech edition of the UOJ.

The delegation visited twelve of Mount Athos’ twenty monasteries. Among others, the guests were received at Simonopetra and Vatopedi monasteries, where they learned about the daily life and spiritual tradition of the Athonite monks.

The pilgrims venerated the relics of St. Arethas and his companions, sixth-century martyrs. St. Arethas is especially venerated by Christians of the Arabian Peninsula, and his memory unites Orthodox and Catholic believers in the region.

According to Bishop Berardi, the joint trip reflects the good relations between Orthodox and Catholics in Kuwait. The visit took place with the blessing of Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, who welcomed the initiative as a contribution to developing relations among Christians.

As the UOJ previously reported, the Patriarch of Antioch announced a visit to the Vatican and a meeting with the Pope.

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