May 10, 14: Pope Francis has appreciated “a real communion’ between the Catholic
and Orthodox Churches while recognizing that it is neither full nor perfect and hence
urged for overcoming the remaining obstacles for full communion. This he expressed
in his letter addressed to the Coptic Pope Tawadros II of Egypt, on the occasion
of the first anniversary of their fraternal meeting last year 10th May.
He said their encounter has strengthened the spiritual bonds between their two Churches
that began with the historic “Conscious that what unites us is far greater than
what separates us, we already experience a real communion, while recognizing that
it is neither full nor perfect” the pope noted. “With trust in the Lord’s grace,
we continue to strive through dialogue in charity and truth to overcome the remaining
obstacles to full communion” he wrote. Pope Francis assured his unceasing prayer
for all Christians in Egypt and throughout the Middle East, imploring that the Lord
inspire in those in authority a firm resolve to seek just and peaceful solutions respectful
of the rights of all.