It is tradition for a delegation of Orthodox Christians to visit Rome on the feast of its patrons, Peter and Paul. Pope Leo addressed this year's delegation, sharing with them his memories of their meeting on the feast of the Orthodox patron, St. Andrew. That even last year marked the anniversary of the Nicene Creed.
This celebration offered an eloquent testimony to the communion that already exists amongst those who share faith in God, the Father of all, and who believe in Jesus Christ, as Lord and Son of God, and in the Holy Spirit, who inspires us and leads us to the fullness of truth and unity. That commemorative event made clear that the Nicene Creed must be the foundation and guiding principle of this ecumenical journey, offering the model of true unity within legitimate diversity: Unity in the Trinity, Trinity in Unity (cf. Apostolic Letter In Unitate Fidei, 12).
Already then, Pope Leo spoke of the upcoming celebration of 2,000 years since the Resurrection, traditionally held to have occurred in the year 33. He has indicated that this anniversary can be an occasion for all Christians to come together.
May the journey towards the celebration of the second millennium of the Redemption, in 2033, be undertaken together by all the Christian denominations of the world, rediscovering the gift and the call to be witnesses to the Risen One.
The Pope also noted the importance of Christian unity for society, saying that "it is not only the credibility of the Christian message that is at stake, but the very future of humanity."
In an age marked by wars and growing polarization, as well as cultural and social divisions, Christians — reconciled amongst themselves and united in their profession of the one faith — are called to be a credible sign of peace, making a decisive contribution to the efforts of all men and women of good will to build peace. Moreover, in the current situation, it is not only the credibility of the Christian message that is at stake, but the very future of humanity. The need for greater cooperation amongst Christians in the face of today’s challenges — which include peace, the proper use of new technologies and care for creation — stems from the Gospel of Jesus Christ itself. Indeed, our responsibility for the life and dignity of every human being, beginning with the youngest and most needy, is the criterion that will determine our present and eternal destiny (cf. Mt 25:31–46).
