WCC NEWS: “Orthodox reflections on the way to Karlsruhe” published to deepen understanding of assembly theme

Honoring a tradition in place since 1983, an Inter-Orthodox Pre-Assembly Consultation took place during which delegates from both Eastern and Oriental Orthodox churches met to reflect on the theme and sub-themes of the World Council of Churches (WCC) assembly. Church of Our Lady Angeloktisti at Kiti, Larnaca, Cyprus. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 23 August 2022 At the invitation of the WCC and with the generosity and blessing of His Eminence, Metropolitan Dr Vasilios of Constantia and Ammochostos, the consultation took place this time in Paralimni, Cyprus, from 9-16 May. There were 50 participants, including delegates from 20 Eastern and Oriental Orthodox churches: hierarchs, priests, deacons, professors, lay men and women, and youth, as well as ecumenical observers and consultants. In addition to the official Report of the Consultation, the resource book also offers reflections on the theme of the assembly by WCC acting general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca, the late Prof. Dr Gennadios of Sassima, and others. In a preface, the editors of the reflections, Sauca and Prof. Dr Vasile-Octavian Mihoc, WCC program executive for Ecumenical Relations and Faith and Order, express their gratitude o all presenters, moderators, and participants at the Inter-Orthodox Pre-Assembly Consultation, “who showed great commitment to all sessions, engagement in discussions, and shaped a joyful and blessed fellowship.” The editors add: “It is hoped that these contributions will be of use in understanding the Orthodox perspective on the complex theme of Christ’s love for our times.” Orthodox Reflections on the Way to Karlsruhe: Christ’s Love Moves the World to Reconciliation and Unity See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC acting general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca, from the Orthodox Church in Romania.  Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland