Matthew Galli The Vatican hosted a high-profile meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Catholicos Aram I , representing the Armenian Apostolic Church of Cilicia . Before the general audience catechesis, the Pontiff greeted the Head of the Armenian Church in the square outside St. Peter's Square, inviting those present to pray for peace in Lebanon and the broader Middle East.
The Pope's words underscored his concern over the resurgence of violence and the need to support local communities in a climate of brotherhood.
The visit, in addition to its symbolic value, was conceived as a practical opportunity to strengthen ties and promote the path toward full communion between the Churches.
During the meeting, the Pontiff expressed gratitude for Aram I's commitment to promoting stable relations with the Church of Rome and for the active participation of the Armenian delegation in the work of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue , active since 2003.
Historical roots and ecumenical vocation
The conversation recalled long-standing moments that link the two Christian communities: the intense relationship in the Middle Ages, the development after the Second Vatican Council , and the stages of the 20th century.
Leo XIV fondly recalled Aram I's first visit to Rome during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January 1997 and the subsequent public occasions that strengthened the relationship. These historical references serve to demonstrate that the dialogue is not episodic but rooted in consolidated ecumenical practice.
The paths of theological dialogue
In recent years, theological collaboration has resulted in shared documents addressing fundamental themes: the nature and mission of the Church , communion in the ancient Church , and the sacraments . These texts, the fruit of discussion among experts, aim to define points of convergence and clarify doctrinal issues with a view to greater rapprochement. The Pope expressed the hope that, despite the difficulties that have recently emerged, the dialogue will continue with renewed impetus because unity in faith is an essential condition for true rapprochement.
Appeal for Lebanon and the role of the Churches
The theme of peace occupied a central place in the meeting: the Pontiff addressed a special thought to Lebanon , a country that has long been an example of coexistence between different cultures and religions. Faced with new threats to national unity and territorial integrity, Leo XIV encouraged the Churches to strengthen fraternal bonds not only among Christians but also with other civil and religious communities present in the country. The appeal was accompanied by the promise of daily prayers and the expression of sincere pastoral concern.
Program of visits and liturgical moments
The Catholicos' presence in Rome has given rise to a busy schedule of institutional and spiritual events. After meeting with the Pope, Aram I participated in a moment of ecumenical prayer in the Urban VIII Chapel of the Apostolic Palace. During his stay, the Catholicos was scheduled to address the General Audience on May 20 in St. Peter's Square and meet with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin , in addition to visiting the Dicasteries for Promoting Christian Unity, for Interreligious Dialogue , and for the Eastern Churches.
Conferences and symbolic stages
Among the highlights is the public conference entitled The Challenges of the Churches in the Middle East , scheduled for May 19 at the Pontifical Oriental Institute , which offers a space for reflection open to students and scholars. Devotional visits to the Tomb of St. Peter, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and the statues of St. Gregory the Illuminator and St. Gregory of Narek in the Vatican are also planned, gestures that underscore the sacramental and symbolic value of the visit.
Aram I, born in 1946 and Catholicos of Cilicia since 1995 , represents a key figure for the Armenian Church: his age and extensive pastoral experience strengthen the weight of his message. The series of meetings and planned initiatives highlights a shared desire for dialogue supported by concrete actions, prayer, and theological exchange, a path that aims to promote not only spiritual reconciliation but also support for communities in need.