Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomeow departs for Italy

Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomeow on Monday departed from Istanbul and is on his way to Rome.

Patriarch Bartholomeow will attend a mass to be directed by Pope Francis on Tuesday at the Saint Pierre Cathedral.

Speaking to reporters at Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport prior to his departure, Bartholomeow said that "the election of the new Pope Francis and the beginning of his tenure was an important event".

Since Tuesday's mass will be important, I decided to join it personally, Bartholomeow said.

"Pope Francis will receive representatives of various churches at 11 a.m. on Wednesday. I will talk with him on behalf of all Orthodox believers," Bartholomeow also said.

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag will represent Turkey at The Vatican ceremonies.

Monday, March 18, 2013