An Interview with the Head of the Eastern Orthodox Church

The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople is an ancient position. As one of the original five patriarchs of the Christian Church, the Patriarch of Constantinople has been a key figure in all of Christendom and the head of the 300 million-strong Eastern Orthodox Church. Bartholomew I, the current Ecumenical Patriarch, has been hailed as "The Green Pope" for his work in bringing environmental issues to the fore in Christian circles. The Patriarch is also well known for reaching out to representatives of other Churches as well as Jewish and Muslim leaders. In 2006 the Patriarch made headlines when he met with Pope Benedict XVI in Istanbul and the two clergymen participated in services. Despite his busy schedule His All Holiness was gracious enough to answer a few questions for Rich Carriero about his position, world politics, interfaith dialogue and the future of Turkey.

Rich: Your position is often referred to as First Among Equals. What does this term mean? Does it mean the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople takes precedence over other Orthodox Patriarchates?

Patriarch Bartholomew: In this "one body of Christ" comprising "many parts," the Ecumenical Patriarch serves as the "first among equals," while the Ecumenical Patriarchate serves as Mother Church to the family of local Orthodox Churches throughout the world. In this role, the Ecumenical Patriarch presides in historical honor among all Orthodox Primates, convoking and presiding over pan-Orthodox gatherings and in general coordinating the common affairs of the Orthodox family.

Rich: What are some ways the office of Ecumenical Patriarch changed since its inception? How has the office changed since the fall of Constantinople in 1453 and since the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923?