Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey to Turkey revives local Catholic fervor, advances practical ecumenism, eases Muslim fears, and aligns Holy See with Ankara on two-state solution.
Newsroom (03/12/2025 Gaudium Press ) Pope Leo XIV’s recent apostolic journey to Turkey has “rekindled enthusiasm” among the country’s small Catholic community and awakened it “from a certain torpor,” according to the Apostolic Vicar of Istanbul, Bishop Massimiliano Palinuro. In an exclusive interview with AsiaNews, the prelate described the visit as a moment of profound grace that surprised the faithful with the Pope’s simplicity, attentive listening, and serene presence amid a demanding schedule.
“The pope’s visit rekindled enthusiasm for discipleship in all who welcomed him,” Bishop Palinuro said. “His simplicity and his ability to listen to people were particularly striking.” The pontiff’s words of peace and testimony of faith, he added, have generated new hope and sparked interest in the Gospel even beyond ecclesial circles, with numerous requests for meetings and discussions pouring in from people touched by the papal message.
Marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, the visit placed ecumenical dialogue at its heart. “All Christians recognise themselves in the single profession of faith of the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed,” the bishop noted, praising the “practical ecumenism” inaugurated by Pope John XXIII that focuses on what unites rather than what divides. Yet he acknowledged persistent challenges: limited participation by some Greek Orthodox churches, ongoing divisions within Orthodoxy, and the fact that certain Orthodox theological faculties still label Catholic doctrine heretical.
For Turkey’s Catholic minority – often perceived as a foreign church serving foreigners – the visit was transformative. “There was truly a reawakening even within individual communities,” Bishop Palinuro said. Many who had drifted away or risked assimilation into the Muslim majority rediscovered their sense of belonging. During a private hour-long meeting with Turkey’s six Catholic bishops, the Pope listened intently to pastoral difficulties, especially inculturation and the long-delayed approval of a new Turkish-language missal. The bishops urged swift approval so the liturgy in Turkish can become “an effective tool for evangelisation.”
On interfaith relations, the Pope’s prayer at the Blue Mosque and meeting with Grand Mufti Ali Erbaş helped dispel suspicions in conservative circles that viewed the visit as a Christian “reconquest.” “These simple deeds show Catholics’ profound respect and sincere fraternity towards Muslim believers,” the bishop explained, noting a positive shift in Turkish public opinion.
Politically, a notable convergence emerged. Bishop Palinuro highlighted growing understanding between Ankara and the Holy See on Middle East conflicts, particularly strong alignment on the “Two Peoples, Two States” solution for Israel-Palestine – a position Turkey has long championed and which the Vatican also supports as the path to lasting peace.
As Advent begins, the Istanbul Vicariate is carrying forward the visit’s momentum. “The beginning of Advent has been marked by the grace of the pope’s visit,” Bishop Palinuro said. Christmas preparations will emphasise solidarity with refugees, migrants, and the poor – groups in whom the local Church is called to recognise “the Lord who knocks on our door.” In a nation hosting millions fleeing war and persecution, welcoming the Prince of Peace means concretely welcoming the suffering, he stressed.
For Turkey’s Catholics – vibrant yet historically discreet – Pope Leo XIV’s journey has injected new life, reinforced ecclesial identity, and opened unexpected doors for witness in a predominantly Muslim society.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Asianews.it
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