Pope grants ecclesiastical communion to Chaldean Patriarch Polis III Nona

Pope Leo XIV has granted ecclesiastical communion to Patriarch Polis III Nona of the Chaldean Catholic Church, marking a significant step in the relationship between the Vatican and the Assyrian Church of the East. The decision follows a formal request from the Patriarch, who was canonically elected on April 12, 2026, by the Synod of Bishops of his sui iuris Church, which convened in Rome. The Pope’s letter, made public on April 28, emphasizes the importance of unity within the Church and the shared mission of building up the Body of Christ.

In his letter, Pope Leo XIV expressed joy at granting the Patriarch ecclesiastical communion, describing it as “an expression and bond of full communion with the Apostolic See.” This recognition is rooted in Canon 76 § 2 of the Codex Canonum Ecclesiarum Orientalium, which outlines the conditions for such communion. The Pope’s message reflects a commitment to fostering unity and mutual support among the diverse traditions within the Catholic Church.

The Pope also expressed hope that Patriarch Nona would lead the Chaldean Church with pastoral care, guiding its faithful according to the Heart of Christ. He prayed for the Holy Spirit to sustain the Patriarch’s mission, encouraging the Church to continue its proclamation of the Gospel. The Pope highlighted the Chaldean Church’s rich apostolic tradition and the legacy of its martyrs and confessors, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of challenges.

The Pope extended his greetings to the bishops, clergy, religious, seminarians, and lay faithful of the Chaldean Church, acknowledging their vital role in the Church’s mission. He also recalled that the Patriarch’s election took place on the day the Chaldean liturgy commemorates the encounter of the Risen Lord with Saint Thomas, a pivotal moment in the Church’s history. The Pope drew attention to the significance of this event, noting how Thomas recognized the merciful manifestation of his Lord in the wounds of Jesus.

This decision underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen ecclesial communion and support the mission of the Chaldean Church, both within its traditional territory and among its diaspora communities. The Pope’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity, aligning with the biblical call to love mercy and walk humbly with God, as seen in Micah 6:8.

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