Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of a historic chapter, one that touched Greece and the Orthodox World profoundly. Through his visits in 2016 and 2021 and his messages of solidarity during difficult times, he built bridges of faith and friendship that will long be remembered.
Throughout his twelve years as head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis’ push for a greater sense of unity between all Christian Churches was evident through his words and deeds.
In 2022, he reintroduced the idea of a shared date for the celebration of Easter for the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Seeing that the date of Easter for both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches aligned on the same day in 2025, Pope Francis called on both Churches to make a definitive effort towards unity.
“I renew my appeal that this coincidence may serve as an appeal to all Christians to take a decisive step forward toward unity around a common date for Easter,” he said.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew offered a deeply heartfelt tribute to Pope Francis, calling him “a precious brother in Christ” and “a true friend of Orthodoxy.” Reflecting on their close relationship, His All-Holiness praised the late Pontiff’s humility, love, and unwavering support for the Ecumenical Patriarchate over his twelve-year papacy.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis echoed these sentiments, noting that “all Christians mourn” the loss of a leader who championed peace, solidarity, and compassion. He extended special condolences to the Greek Catholic community, hoping that Pope Francis’ legacy of love and understanding will continue to inspire.
President of the Republic Constantine Tasoulas also honored the Pope’s memory, calling him “a religious leader who left an indelible mark on the world,” and recalling his two visits to Greece, where he described the country as “a gift, a heritage of humanity.”
In 2023, amidst devastating fires in Greece, Pope Francis conveyed a message of solidarity and compassion. His words in St. Peter’s Square reflected his unwavering support for the Greek people during their times of hardship, emphasizing a bond that transcended borders and faiths.
Pope Francis’s initial visit to Greece in April 2016 underscored his commitment to addressing the refugee crisis, urging compassion and openness.
His meetings with religious leaders and refugees at the Moria hotspot exemplified his advocacy for human dignity and solidarity. “Keep your hearts and your doors open,” he urged, acknowledging the Greek people’s generosity amidst challenges.
“You are not alone. You have been through a lot in recent months. You felt compelled to flee the war for your children. You have made many sacrifices for your families.”
Returning in December 2021, Pope Francis revisited Lesvos, where he lamented the persisting global injustices faced by refugees. His poignant words underscored a call for universal respect for human rights and a condemnation of walls and barriers.
“The dignity of every soul must be placed above all,” he passionately proclaimed, challenging Europe and the world to confront their moral responsibilities.
In Athens, Pope Francis celebrated Divine Liturgy, expressing solidarity with Greek Catholics and recognizing Greece’s profound contributions to human culture and thought. His farewell, quoting Aristotle—”A friend is another self”—resonated deeply, encapsulating his belief in the enduring bonds between individuals and nations.
In 2023, he returned three fragments of the Parthenon that had been preserved for more than two centuries in the Vatican Museums to Greece. The Pontiff expressed his endless respect for Greece as the cradle of Western Civilisation, highlighting his relationship with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
The three fragments of Pentelic marble are remnants of a 160-meter-long (520-foot) frieze that ran around the outer walls of the Parthenon Temple on the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena, goddess of wisdom.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, advocacy for the marginalized, and a profound belief in the shared humanity that binds us all. His impact on Greece, both in solidarity during crises and in celebration of cultural heritage, remains a testament to his vision of a compassionate and inclusive world.
