...represented a blow to efforts for closer ties between the Roman Catholic and Orthodox religions. As leader of the biggest Christian Orthodox church, Alexy's cooperation is vital for any deep ecclesiastical changes. So far, he has been cool to overtures...

...divide, Pope John Paul II offered a sweeping statement of regret Friday for "sins of action and omission" against Christian Orthodox including the sacking of the ancient center of Greek Byzantium. The declaration -- long awaited by Orthodox leaders...

...which stood at the southeast corner of the site on Cedar Street, was destroyed in the attacks. Only a few icons of Christian Orthodox saints survived. The Orthodox community worldwide has already pledged $2 million to fund reconstruction of the...