The man you see here is Metropolitan Antonij, head of External Relations for the Russian Orthodox Church and envoy of Patriarch Kirill to the Vatican. This was his first official meeting with Pope Leo XIV.
Among the topics of discussion were Orthodox-Catholic dialogue, with particular focus on current conflicts, such as those in the Middle East and Ukraine.
According to a statement from the Moscow Patriarchate, Antonij informed the Pope of what they describe as the persecution currently faced by the Orthodox Churches in Ukraine, especially those with links to Russia.
Although it was his first face-to-face meeting with the new pope, Antonij has long been one of the most visible liaisons between the Russian Church and the Vatican. For example, here he is with Pope Francis in 2022.
Also pictured, is his visit to Kazakhstan. Initially, it was expected that Patriarch Kirill would attend, but it was ultimately Antonij who traveled and met privately with Pope Francis.
—How is Patriarch Kirill?
—All is well, all is well.
—Send him my regards.
—I spoke with him yesterday, and he asked me to convey his greetings.
—Mine to him as well.
That second meeting never took place. In fact, during that trip, the Moscow Patriarchate stated that relations between the two churches had become frozen.
One must go back to 2016 for their relationship's historic moment. After years of ups and downs, relations between Russia and the Holy See took a major step forward when Kirill and Pope Francis met in Havana and signed a joint ecumenical declaration.
However, just as a second meeting was being considered, war broke out in Ukraine. This was the turning point that led to the deterioration of relations. Kirill sided with Putin, justifying the invasion.
Fr. Stefano Caprio
Pontifical Oriental Institute
Kirill was a great friend of the Catholic Church, but then he found himself caught in the system and now has to adopt extreme positions. In fact, his recent stances seem somewhat influenced by the Kremlin.
However, both Pope Francis and the Vatican have consistently upheld a policy of open dialogue, even in the face of disagreement.
POPE FRANCIS
Sometimes dialogue has to be done in this way, but it has to be done. It stinks, but it has to be done. Always take a step forward, extend a hand, always. Otherwise, we shut the only reasonable door to peace.
Pope Leo XIV has continued this path of dialogue. He has spoken with both Zelensky and Putin. As for Kirill, he sent his congratulations to Pope Leo upon his election.
It remains to be seen whether a reconciliation will occur. In the meantime, the meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Metropolitan Antonij represents a small step forward.
CA
Trans. CRT
