[markomalley]

I always thought the Roman side claimed superiority.

Superiority is not the right word for it.

I think where the issue comes in is the role of precedence. There is no argument about the See of Peter having the place of honor among all of the Patriarchs. Where there is the argument is what that, exactly, means. The Latin Church has always taken that to mean a more hands-on approach, while the Eastern Churches have taken it to mean a more collegial approach.

But I think if Kirill, Bartholomew, and Benedict manage to live long enough, I'd bet that they are able to work that issue out...at least for the three of them.

[verga]

I think where the issue comes in is the role of precedence.

I think a better word might be "Primacy, not in the sense of superiority, but similar to the British Parliment witht he Prime Minister be3ing the "First among equals."