60 Minutes Interview with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I

Overview

The report examines Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I’s role as a leader of Orthodox Christians worldwide while living in predominantly Muslim Turkey. Bartholomew says the church’s presence in Istanbul predates the modern Turkish state by centuries and that its community has a historic and spiritual connection to the country.

He and other church officials say Christians face discrimination, have lost properties and churches, and do not enjoy full rights as Turkish citizens. Despite these difficulties, Bartholomew says his community wants to remain in Turkey.

The Orthodox Community in Turkey

The report describes the small, guarded headquarters of the Patriarchate in Istanbul and the decline of Turkey’s Orthodox population. It recounts the expulsion of many Orthodox Christians in 1923 and the departure of others after anti-Christian riots in 1955. According to the report, about 4,000 Orthodox Christians remained in Turkey at the time.

Bartholomew says he hopes the community will endure.

Christian Heritage

To illustrate the region’s Christian history, the report visits Cappadocia, where guide Sadim Carabik points out ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes and describes the area as central to early Christianity.

The report also visits Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai. Librarian Father Justin shows the monastery’s manuscripts and icons, as well as a letter attributed to the Prophet Muhammad that offered the monastery’s Christians protection and religious freedom.

Halki Seminary and the Patriarch’s Role

Bartholomew highlights the closure of Halki Seminary in 1971, calling its continued closure a shame. He says it prevents the church from training priests and future leaders.

The report notes that Turkish law requires the patriarch to be born in Turkey, while the government does not recognize the “ecumenical” aspect of his title. Bartholomew says his appeals to the prime minister have gone unanswered.

He describes remaining in Turkey as a religious mission, even when he feels “crucified,” and says he holds on to the hope of resurrection.

Presenters and Contributors

• Bob Simon: Reporter
• Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I
• Sadim Carabik: Cappadocia guide
• Father Justin: Librarian, Saint Catherine’s Monastery