Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch marks new period in cooperation with Pope Francis

Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew said a new period of cooperation with Pope Francis started which would be for the benefit of not just the church but also the humanity.

Bartholomew replied questions of journalists in Istanbul on Friday regarding his participation in the inauguration mass of Pope Francis in Rome.

Stating that the gestures and attitude of Pope Francis highlighted him as a loved figure in public, Bartholomew said, "this situation will continue as it is. We believe Pope Francis will serve the Christians and all of humanity. We invited him to our patriarchate. As you know, the last three popes have officially visited our patriarchate. We are working together for the unity of the Christians. Pope himself said he wanted to visit Turkey. Turkish President needs to invite him and I'm sure he will."

"My Rome visit went very well. We have begun a new period of cooperation with Pope Francis. This will be for the benefit of not just the church but also the humanity. It will mark an era for humanity," Bartholomew said.

Also mentioning his offer to Pope Francis to meet in Jerusalem in 2014, Bartholomew said, "He accepted my offer with pleasure. Hence, we will visit holy places together."

Friday, March 22, 2013