VATICAN CITY (CNS): With the simple gesture of reverence for a Russian icon, Pope John Paul II and Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored their commitment to improving relations between the Roman Catholic and Russian Orthodox Churches.
The ongoing tension between the Vatican and the Orthodox Patriarchate of Moscow was one of the major topics of discussion during the Pope’s November 5 meeting with President Putin, said Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls.
“The Holy Father wanted the sacred icon of Our Lady of Kazan to be present during this meeting,” the spokesman added.
Pope John Paul made the sign of the cross over the icon and kissed it, then handed it to President Putin, who kissed it.
Russian reporters at the meeting said Pope John Paul told President Putin’s entourage he wanted to thank the Russian President “for everything he has done to bring the Russian Orthodox and Catholic Churches closer together” and for his efforts for peace in the world.
Mr Navarro-Valls said, “Both sides expressed hope for a positive development in the dialogue between the Holy See and the Moscow Patriarchate.”
The reporters said President Putin did not invite Pope John Paul to visit Russia.
Before leaving Moscow, the Russian President had told Italian reporters, “I do not see my task as ensuring the Pope’s visit to Russia, but as helping steps toward unity”.
