The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew held a landmark meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, bringing attention to pressing religious, cultural, and geopolitical issues in Turkey and the broader Middle East. The conversation focused on the reopening of the Halki Theological School, the status of Christians in Turkey, interfaith dialogue, and ongoing developments in Ukraine.
Warm Diplomatic Exchange
The Patriarch described the atmosphere as “very warm and respectful,” highlighting the personal reception by the President and Vice President. He expressed gratitude for gifts exchanged, including symbolic items reflecting faith and tradition. Bartholomew also praised the Greek-American community in high government positions, noting their presence in the Oval Office during the meeting, including Mike Kratsios and former Chief of Staff Reince Priebus.
Halki Theological School: A Priority
The Patriarch informed President Trump of ongoing dialogue with the Turkish government aimed at reopening the Halki Seminary. Efforts initiated by President Erdoğan involve the Turkish Minister of Education visiting Halki to meet with Patriarchate officials. Bartholomew emphasized the goal of welcoming the first students by September 2026, signaling progress in church-state negotiations.
Bartholomew painted a stark picture of the Christian minority, now roughly 1% of Turkey’s 84 million population. He stressed the historical continuity of the Orthodox presence over 1,700 years and warned of ongoing decline in the broader Middle East, noting that pilgrimage sites may become museums if the trend continues. The Patriarch urged President Trump to maintain U.S. attention and support for these vulnerable communities.
Global and Regional Engagement
The Patriarch also addressed the situation in Ukraine, recalling the granting of autocephaly to the Ukrainian Church six years ago. He framed the move as recognition of the right of religious independence from Moscow, reflecting the Patriarchate’s commitment to justice and local ecclesiastical autonomy. Interfaith dialogue with Rome was also highlighted as a continuing success, with future international theological assemblies planned.
Faith and Diplomacy Intersect
The Bartholomew-Trump meeting underscored the intersection of faith, diplomacy, and geopolitics. Through strategic dialogue, the Patriarch seeks to protect minority communities, advance theological education, and ensure that the voice of the Ecumenical Patriarchate remains influential in global policy discussions. The Halki Seminary remains a symbol of resilience and a litmus test for Turkey’s respect for religious freedom.
Source: pagenews.gr