Pope Francis to visit Türkiye for 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea in 2025

Pope Francis has announced plans to visit İznik, Türkiye, in 2025 to mark the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, a pivotal event in early Christian history. Speaking to a theological committee on Thursday, the pontiff shared his intention to visit the Turkish town, which was the site of the landmark council in 325 AD.

The First Council of Nicaea was convened to address significant theological debates within the early Christian Church, particularly the nature of Jesus Christ as both divine and human. The council's decisions, including the Nicene Creed, continue to shape Christian doctrine today. Pope Francis' visit will be part of the celebrations during the upcoming Holy Year.

"I plan to go there," Pope Francis said, referring to the planned pilgrimage to İznik in honour of the anniversary.

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