Ecumenical Patriarch Sends Prayerful Letter to President Trump
Patr. Bartholomew wrote to President Trump offering prayers following a security incident during the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew sent a letter on April 26, 2026, to U.S. President Donald Trump expressing concern and prayers following a reported security incident during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in Washington, D.C.
"We give thanks to Almighty God that You and the First Lady were kept from harm, and we express our concern for the member of the United States Secret Service who was injured in the course of duty," Patr. Bartholomew said. "We beseech the Lord to grant him a swift and complete recovery, and to strengthen all those entrusted with the protection of public servants and the preservation of public order."
Patr. Bartholomew described the incident as a reminder of the fragility of public security and called for rejection of violence, hatred, and fanaticism. He urged a renewed commitment to restraint, mutual respect, and human dignity, while extending prayers for the United States and its leadership.
"Please accept, Mr. President, the assurance of our thoughts and prayers for You, for the First Lady, for the injured officer, and for the people of the United States of America," the letter concludes. "May the God of mercy preserve You in safety, grant healing to the wounded, and guide Your nation in justice, harmony, and concord."
The full letter can be read below.
Previously, the UOJ reported that President Trump welcomed Abp. Elpidophoros to the White House for a Greek Independence Day celebration.
