Istanbul, Turkey - His Holiness Pope Benedict departed from the See of the Ecumenical Patriarchate with the ringing of bells and in an atmosphere of joy.

His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew escorted the Pope during his departure and expressed his anticipation for his presence at the Patronal Feast of the Ecumenical Patriarchate the following day.

Earlier the two Primates had the opportunity to introduce to one another the members of their entourages and exchange gifts, and then meet privately in the official Patriarchal Office. During their private meeting the members of the entourages had the opportunity to acquaint themselves with one another in the Hall of the Throne.

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Contact:
Rev. Dositheos Anagnostopoulos
Patriarchal Press Officer
Tel. +90 212 5210430
dositheos@superonline.net

Rev. Dr. Frank Marangos,
Press Officer
Tel. +90 538 2777495 (cell)
frfrank@goarch.org