Patriarch of Constantinople Opens Symposium on 1700th Anniversary of Council of Nicaea

Patriarch Bartholomew officially opened the Academic Symposium marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea (325 AD), emphasizing its theological significance and relevance today.

Delivering his remarks in English, the Patriarch expressed sorrow over the recent passing of Pope Francis, noting that they had planned to commemorate the milestone together next month in Nicaea.

This planned joint commemoration had been received with skepticism both by Orthodox and Catholics alike over concern that the two bishops might push for another shallow union between the churches—without the Vatican renouncing the many innovations it has adopted over the last thousand years.

Organized under the Patriarchate of Constantinople and led by Dr. John Chryssavgis, the symposium brings together international scholars to explore the Council's lasting impact on Christian doctrine and unity. The final session will take place in Nicaea (modern-day Iznik), where the original council was convened.

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