Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew Issue Joint Call for Unity and Peace
Pope Leo XIV and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew have today (29 November) signed a Joint Declaration in what SAT-7 CEO Rita El-Mounayer described as “a symbolic bridge built in a world full of walls”.
The statement affirms that Christian unity is not an abstract aspiration but a necessary contribution to peace in a world marked by conflict and division:
“Together we fervently raise our voices in invoking God’s gift of peace upon our world. Tragically, in many regions of our world, conflict and violence continue to destroy the lives of so many. We appeal to those who have civil and political responsibilities to do everything possible to ensure that the tragedy of war ceases immediately, and we ask all people of good will to support our entreaty.”
The two leaders stressed that religion must never be invoked to justify violence, and they encourage genuine dialogue between people of different faith traditions as essential for coexistence. They also call on all people of goodwill to work for “a more just and supportive world” and to confront indifference, domination, greed, and xenophobia with compassion and shared responsibility.
Despite the sombre global context, the declaration carries a message of confidence and hope:
“We do not lose hope. God will not abandon humanity.”
SAT-7’S PRESENCE
As announced on 25 November, SAT-7 CEO Rita El-Mounayer has joined Pope Leo XIV on his first overseas trip to the Middle East, visiting Türkiye and Lebanon as Vatican-accredited media personnel. Today, in Istanbul, the Pope visited the famous Blue Mosque and met with local church leaders.
Rita described the signing of the Joint Declaration as “a profound moment of fraternity”, adding: “Today, Istanbul becomes a living symbol of dialogue, unity, and courage — a place where faiths meet, and Christians stand together with one heart.
“For me personally, it is a reminder that peace is possible, that unity can begin with respecting our differences, and that even in a divided world, the Holy Spirit still moves, still surprises, still heals.”
Rita’s presence, together with coverage from SAT-7 TÜRK and, from Sunday (30 November), SAT-7 ARABIC, ensures that viewers across the region can follow key moments of the visit as they unfold. Selected events from the Pope’s programme are being broadcast live, giving viewers in the Middle East direct access to a historic moment for regional Christians.
LOOKING AHEAD TO LEBANON
As the Pope’s journey moves toward Lebanon on Sunday (30 November) – a nation carrying the weight of economic crisis, political uncertainty, and the enduring impact of the Beirut blast – the themes of unity, dignity, and peace take on renewed significance.
SAT-7 will continue to capture and share moments from the visit: encounters with church leaders, communities seeking hope, and young people yearning for a future marked by stability and justice. These stories reflect the lived reality of believers across the Middle East and underline the Gospel truth: blessed are the peacemakers.
Follow SAT-7 on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to see the latest updates of the visit.
