Pope Francis will visit Greece from Dec. 4 to 6. The trip will have a strong ecumenical feel, as Catholics make up less than one percent of the country's 10 million inhabitants.
That's why a key event will be the Pope's meeting with the Orthodox Archbishop of Athens, Ieronymos II.
ABP. THEODOROS KONDITIS
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Athens
“The different Orthodox Churches oppose the primacy of the Pope, perhaps not only for ecclesiastical reasons, but for historical ones, because there is a history of rivalry and conflict, which has marked the culture and conscience.”
For the Catholic minority, there will be two important moments. The first will be on Dec. 4. After meeting with civil and religious authorities, the Pope will meet with catechists, bishops, priests and other religious. The other big event will be the Mass celebration in Athens on Dec. 5.
The country's young people will also have a moment with the Pope.
BP. MANUEL NIN
Apostolic Exarch, Greek Byzantine Catholic Church
“May it be a moment also for Catholics to reaffirm the minority Catholic presence in Greece. We are a very small minority. But we hope his presence will help us reaffirm our faith and our Christian life each day.”
There are high expectations for the Pope's visit with refugees in Lesbos. Pope Francis was there five years ago and returned to Rome with various refugee families.
BP. MANUEL NIN
Apostolic Exarch, Greek Byzantine Catholic Church
“I don't know if it will solve anything, but his presence is very powerful and says, Do not forget this drama. The danger would be to forget this drama.”
Covid-19 vaccination certifications and face masks will be required for participation in all the Pope's events. Greek Orthodox authorities have threatened to excommunicate anyone who refuses to get vaccinated. Catholic leaders also support vaccination, though they have not imposed such drastic measures.
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TR: CT
