Pope Leo XIV’s Istanbul visit signals support for Christian unity and Armenia-Turkiye reconciliation

Pope Leo XIV led prayers at the Armenian Apostolic Cathedral in Istanbul on Sunday, marking a significant gesture toward Christian solidarity and subtly supporting ongoing reconciliation efforts between Turkiye and Armenia. The visit, rich in spiritual symbolism, also reflected the Vatican’s cautious encouragement of dialogue between the two nations long divided by historical grievances.

An estimated 1.5 million Armenians died in 1915 during mass killings, deportations and forced marches under Ottoman rule an event widely regarded by historians as genocide, though Turkiye disputes the term and maintains the deaths occurred amid civil unrest. While Pope Leo avoided directly mentioning the word “genocide,” he paid tribute to the Armenian people’s "courageous Christian witness throughout history, often amid tragic circumstances.”

Political analysts say the Pontiff’s presence carries diplomatic weight, as Turkiye and Armenia continue their efforts to normalize relations, following the appointment of special envoys in 2021 to help reopen their long-closed border. The peace initiatives parallel attempts to reduce tensions with Azerbaijan, Turkiye’s ally, after decades of conflict over the Karabakh region.

The Holy Mother of God Patriarchal Church was filled with around 500 Armenian worshipers as Pope Leo and Patriarch Sahak II Mashalian led a solemn service accompanied by incense, traditional chants and a dedication ceremony. Patriarch Sahak praised the Papacy as a moral force that “champions peace and gives voice to those who have none.”

While many Armenians remain skeptical about the impact on policy, they acknowledge the visit’s symbolic value in honoring their history, faith and ongoing challenges. Pope Leo’s visit follows similar gestures by former popes Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI, underscoring the Vatican’s sustained support for Christian communities in Turkiye and the region.