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Orthodox Unity

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › The Church › Orthodox Unity

The question

Both the Oriental and Eastern Orthodox Churches have essentially established that there is no theological separation (secondary to Chalcedon) of the churches in our dogmas. However, perhaps due to time and distance, the discussions to bring unity has lagged behind in priorities for our generation. 

Are there any discussions, meetings, or councils that are being planned by the bishops of the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches, and if so, when? 

If there is not an official meeting, is there anything we, as the congregations of the churches, can do to encourage unity of the Orthodox believers in the very near future?

If division is tragic and heart-breaking in our history, the unity once more to the churches will be a joy to the body of Christ.

The answer

Without any doubt or hesitation, the unity of all Orthodox churches will be a source of joy to the body of Christ, and to all Christians in the world. Dialogues amongst all the Orthodox churches continue, but progress toward unification requires its own time. Each issue of difference or dispute must be studied thoroughly. There are assigned committees entrusted to review all the variances of theological matters. Nonetheless, we recognize and respect each other with great reverence.

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

Related questions

Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 2535 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.