Pope Leo XIV’s speech at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul

Pope Leo XIV’s speech at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul

Pope Leo XIV, Head of State of the Vatican, visited the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit (Saint Esprit Cathedral) in the Harbiye district of Istanbul during his trip to Turkey and delivered a speech at a ceremony attended by bishops, priests, deacons and other church officials.

In his remarks, he referred to the historical arrival of the apostles of Jesus in Anatolia and emphasized that cities such as Antioch and Ephesus — which today lie within the borders of İzmir province — once hosted prominent figures of the Christian world, stressing that Turkey still hosts diverse Christian communities from various denominations.

Pope Leo XIV also addressed the clergy and members of the Christian communities present, offering advice and guidance and underscoring the importance of coexistence and the continuation of spiritual activities in the country.