20101124

Jerusalem Armenian Patriarch to Have Co-Adjutor



JERUSALEM, November 22nd, 2010 — It was announced that the Armenian Church in Jerusalem is to have a co-adjutor patriarch to assist His Beatitude Patriarch Torkom (Manoogian), the 96th Patriarch of Jerusalem.

This was proposed by Patriarch Torkom himself, during the four-day 19th general Assembly of the monastic Brotherhood of St. James, whose members administer the Patriarchate. Patriarch Torkom, who is 94, has been in declining health for some time although he co-chaired the Assembly with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, the primate of Diocese of Armenian Church of America (Eastern).

Born in an Iraqui refugee camp in 1919 Patriarch Torkom studied at the Armenian Seminary in Jerusalem before becoming its Assistant Dean. Following his episcopal consecration in 1962 he served in the USA as Primate of the Western diocese and for a short period of the Eastern diocese, being elected Patriarch in 19990. Following the death of Catholicos Vazgen he served as locum tenens of Etchmiadzin 1994-5. He has tried hard to reinforce the Armenian presence in the Holy Land through administrative reforms, refurbishing the dilapidated residences of the priests, renovating churches and upgrading the educational standards of the theological seminary.

His insistence on accountability and transparency and imbuing the Armenian Church with his vision of a revived Jerusalem, has earned him universal respect from all Armenians and brought a measure of much-needed stability to the Armenian community but the strains have taken a heavy toll on his health.




Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem Issues Communiqué Following General Assembly of the St. James Brotherhood



20101123

Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem Issues Communiqué Following General Assembly of the St. James Brotherhood



18 November 2010

What follows is an English-language translation of the official Armenian-language communiqué issued by the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem, following the General Assembly of the Patriarchate's St. James Brotherhood, which convened November 15-18, 2010.

COMMUNIQUÉ



The 19th session of the General Assembly of the Brotherhood of St. James in Jerusalem was convened in the tahlidj of the Patriarchate from November 15 to 18, with His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Patriarch, presiding and 28 members of the Brotherhood participating.

His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, was elected as Co-Chairman of the General Assembly, a task that he carried out capably.

The General Assembly was presented with the Financial Report of 2010 and the Proposed Budget for 2011. The Brotherhood carefully reviewed the Financial Report, and accepted and approved the Proposed Budget for 2011 by majority vote.

During the course of 2009-2010, the Executive Council [Dnoren Zhoghov] had held 40 routine sessions, during which the members had discussed issues concerning education, real estate, finances, the Dominical sites, public relations, ecumenical relations, local departments and others, about which the General Assembly received a report and appreciatively accepted it with an absolute majority vote.

During the meeting various issues and proposals of interest to the Brotherhood concerning real estate, finances, Bylaws were taken into consideration, and a partial election was held to replace the members of the Executive Council whose terms had expired.

The General Assembly heard reports and explanations concering Soorp Nikoghayos [Nicholas] Monastery of Jaffa, Soorp George Monastery of Ramle, Soorp Hreshdagabedats [Archangels] Monastery of Jerusalem, Soorp Hagop Church in the Armenian Monastery in Bethlehem and the basic renovations in Soorp Tarkmanchats [Translators] School. Mr. Yossi Avner, the attorney of the Monastery, presented explanations about various real estate related issues connected with Soorp Krikor Loosavorich Church in New Jerusalem and clarified all the concerns that the members of the Brotherhood had. The status of Soorp Krikor Loosavorich Church in New Jerusalem remains unchanged under the jurisdiction of the Armenian Patriarchate.

The Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Bourjekian, the Dean of real possessions, presented the report for the Real Estate Department of the Patriarchate and answered questions from all the members of the Brotherhood. The General Assembly accepted with appreciation the explanations of the Dean of Real Estate Possessions.

During the meeting His Beatitude the Patriarch presented a memorandum to the officers of the Assembly and the Chairman read His Beatitude's wish: taking into consideration the situation of his health and the future of the Monastery, he proposes to the General Assembly of the Brotherhood to consider the issue of electing a coadjutor Patriarch and towards that end articles fulfilling the stipulations of the Bylaws to be prepared. He also advised that the Chairman, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, chair the committee of this segment of the Bylaws Committee. It is the wish of His Beatitude that approval of the articles to be added to the Bylaws be given in March of 2011.

Besides this, the General Assembly of the Brotherhood elected a new Bylaws Committee in order to amend the Bylaws of the Holy See during the course of next year.

After examining the plan to construct an income generating guest house on a plot of land on the Mount of Ascension that belongs to the Monastery, the General Assembly of the Brotherhood gave its consent.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood expresses its appreciation to His Beatitude the Patriarch, to His Eminence Archbishop Nourhan Manoogian, Grand Sacristan, and to the Co-Chairman of the General Assembly of the Brotherhood, and the secretaries.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood expresses its appreciation to the members of the past Executive Council and to its Chairman Archbishop Aris Shirvanian for services rendered.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood congratulates the newly elected members of the Executive Council, wishing them success in their endeavors.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood noted with appreciation the activities of the Education, Holy Sites, Real Estate and Finance Departments and thanked all those that gave their best for the benefit of the Holy See.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood prays to God to keep the Holy See of St. Etchmiadzin unshaken, and give a long life to His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood prays to God to always keep under his shadow the Holy See and give good health to His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood thanks all the members of the Brotherhood who have turned their immediate concern to the welfare and prosperity of the Holy See.

St. James Brotherhood with its Presiding head thanks all those who have contributed to the prosperity of the Holy See by means of material and moral assistance.

The General Assembly of the Brotherhood ended with a positive and constructive spirit. The General Assembly of the Brotherhood's 19th session ended with the Holy See's anthem being chanted in standing position and after the Dismissal prayer of the Patriarch.

November 18, 2010
Divan of the Holy See [of Jerusalem]

http://www.armenianchurch-ed.net/news-and-media/news/armenian-patriarchate-of-jerusalem-issues-communiqu-following-general-assembly-of-the-st-james-brotherhood/

20101102

115th Catholicos of the East Baselios Marthoma Paulose II installed



PARUMALA, (KERALA,INDIA): Nov 1 : Baselios Marthoma Paulose II was enthroned as Catholicos of the East, supreme head of the Orthodox Church of the East and Malankara Metropolitan at a special ceremony held at St. Paul’s and St. Peter’s Church (Parumala Pally) at Parumala in Kerala, southern India, on November 1, 2010.

The 64-year-old Catholicos, His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Poulose I (Former Paulose Mar Milithios), was consecrated after his predecessor His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I decided to step down on his 90th birthday on Oct. 29.


Former Catholicos His Holiness Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Didymus I was the chief celebrant at the consecration ceremony. The Newly consecrated Catholicos, Baselios Marthoma Paulose II is the eighth Catholicos since the Catholicate of the East was relocated to India and 115th Catholicos in the lineage of Catholicoi of the East in the apostolic throne of St. Thomas. He is also the 21st Malankara Metropolitan (Major Arch Bishop of India) of the Malankara (Indian) Church.

“The consecration ceremony was conducted under the rich traditions of the church. We are happy the church is getting a new head who dedicated his life in prayers,” said Orthodox seminary principal Father K. M. George.

Father George believes the new Catholicos is a great shepherd. “He prioritizes prayers and spirituality,” the priest added.

Starting with a procession, the major part of the consecration ceremony was held at the Pontifical Mass. During the consecration, the former Catholicos handed over the throne and all its designations to his successor.


The consecration ceremony

At 6.30 am all Metropolitans have ceremoniously accompanied His Holiness Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Didymus I into the Church and the day’s event began. Arch Bishop of Chengannur Diocese Thomas Mar Athanasius celebrated the Holy Qurbana. Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Didymus I was the chief celebrant for the consecration ceremony.


New Catholicos readout and put his signature on his confession of faith (Amalogia), which the new Pontiff himself piously submitted to the Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Paulose II.

Thereafter the reigning Catholicos declared that the new Pontiff is worthy to be elevated to the Catholicosate and to the throne of St. Thomas. This led to reading of the Gospel, with Metropolitans carrying the throne, on which the new Catholicos was sitting. This was to symbolize the authority of the new Catholicos over the Church of God. Staff for the new Catholicos was also handed over in a similar fashion, where nine Metropolitans held their hands below the hand of the New Catholicos, which was guided to the top by the reigning Catholicose.

Concluding the ceremony, litanies were read out, which were prayers for and divine felicitations to the new Pontiff.

Newly installed Catholicose Baselios Marthoma Paulose II completed the Holy Qurbana to mark the end of ceremony.

Priest Trustee Fr. Dr. Johns Abraham Konattu was the Master of Ceremony. Fr. M.P. George led the melodious choir.

Around 25 Metropolitans attended the event. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Osthathios, Thomas Mar Athanasius,Geevarghese Mar Ivanios, Kuriakose Mar Cleemis, Zachariah Mar Anthonios, Dr. Thomas Mar Athanasius, Geevarghese Mar Coorilos, Paulose Mar Pachomius, Dr. Mathews Mar Severius, Dr. Yakoob Mar Irenaeus, Dr. Gabriel Mar Gregorios, Dr. Zachariah Mar Theophilos, Dr. Yuhanon Mar Chrysostomos, Yuhanon Mar Policarpos, Mathews Mar Theodosius, Joseph Mar Dionysius, Abraham Mar Ephiphanios, Dr. Mathews Mar Timothios, Dr. Yuhanon Mar Dioscoros, Dr. Youhanon Mar Dimitrios, Dr. Yuhanon Mar Theodoros, Yakob Mar Elias, Joshua Mar Nicodemus, Dr. Zachariah Mar Aprem, Dr. Geevarghese Mar Julius and Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphim participated the consecration ceremony. A number of priests and thousands of faithful witnessed the historical ceremony.

Kerala Finance Minster T.M. Thomas Isaac, Jose K. Mani, and Anto Antony, MPs, K.M. Mani, P.J. Joseph, Joseph M. Puthussery, Raju Abraham, Mons Joseph, K. Sivadasan Nair, and Mathew T. Thomas, MLAs, Mar Joseph Powathil, Joseph Perunthottm, Archbishops, and Philipose Mar Chrysostum, Senior Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church, were among those who turned up to felicitate the new Catholicos.

With the consecration of His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Paulose II, three Catholicoi had been consecrated at Parumala Pally. His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II was consecrated as Catholicos of the East in 1991 and His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I in 2005.

PROFILE

His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Paulose II was born on August 30, 1946 in the ancient Syrian Christian family of Kollannur to K I Ipe and Kunjeetty at Thalappally Taluk in Thrissur District. His mother, Kunjeetty hails from the famous family of Pulikkottil and he was baptized at St Mary's Orthodox Church Pazhani.

He was ordained for the first stage of deaconate in Parumala Seminary in 1972 and as Priest on June 2, 1973. He was ordained as Ramban (monk) on May 3, 1983. Ramban Paul was ordained as Bishop with title Paulose Mar Milithios on May 15, 1985 by Baselios Mar Thoma Mathew I. He is the first metropolitan after Parumala Thirumeni who was ordained Bishop below age of 40. He was appointed as the first Arch Bishop of the newly formed Kunnamkulam diocese of the church on August 1, 1985.

He was unanimously elected as Catholicos designate by Malankara Syrian Christian Association on October 12, 2006.

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church of the East traces its origins to Saint Thomas the Apostle who evangelized India. The Orthodox Church of the East, also known as the Indian Orthodox Church, is an autocephalous Oriental Orthodox church, with thirty million faithful worldwide. The church is most influential in Kerala.

H.H. Baselios Marthoma Didymus I, The Catholicos of the East Abdicates



DEVALOKAM (KERALA,INDIA): The great shepherd of the East, His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I decided to step down.

It is in a special session of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Orthodox Church of the East that was convened at the Catholicosate Palace, Devalokam, Kottayam, on 29th October 2010 that the supreme Pontiff decided to disclose on his abdication.

“The Almighty allowed me to lead the Church for the last five years. Looking back, I consider everything as grace of God. I love the Church and the people of God. I also thank all of you, who stood as strong support to me during these years”, said the Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan to the members of the Holy Episcopal Synod in the preface of his speech.

“For the rest of my life, I want to retreat in prayer and wish to set aside myself from all administrative responsibilities”, carried on the Catholicos.

Twenty Metropolitans including Dr. Geevarghese Mar Osthathios attended the meeting.

A meeting of the Holy Episcopal Synod will officially convene on 30th October. Details of the abdication will be released to the media thereafter.

His Holiness The Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Didymus I was enthroned at St. Paul’s and St. Peter’s Church (Parumala Pally) at Parumala on October 31, 2005.

Historians will depict this father as the great skipper, who depended on the power of prayer than secular administrative skills to lead the children of God. Great meeting at Kottayam and two flawless Malankara Associations bear witness to the above said fact.


PHOTO: H.H. Baselios Marthoma Didymus I (right), 114th Catholicos of the East with H.H. Pope Shenouda III, 117th Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa on the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, on 6th May 2006. — CC-BY-SA image from the official Malankara Church Magazine

20101015

PATRIARCH ZAKKA I IWAS IN ANTELIAS



ANTELIAS: His Holiness Zakka I Iwas, Patriarch of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch, accompanied by his Assistant, the Diocesan Bishops of Lebanon met with His Holiness Aram I in the presence of Bishop Nareg Alemezian on Thursday 14th October 2010. The Heads of the two Oriental Orthodox Churches met to discuss relations with the sister Coptic Orthodox Church and problems in church relations within the Middle East Council of Churches. The meeting continued over lunch hosted by His Holiness Aram I.

PHOTO COURTASY: Armenian Orthodox Church

20100830

ElBaradei his own Enemy – Coptic Bishop

Cairo, Egypt: H G Moussa, the bishop of youth for the Coptic Orthodox Church, has criticized Mohamed ElBaradei, former chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), for failing to offer new proposal for political reform that would distinguish him from other Egyptian political parties. During the First Conference for Young Egyptians Abroad organized by the National Youth Council in Alexandria, Father Moussa said ElBaradei should join an existing political party and then push for a constitutional reform. Father Moussa asserted that the Coptic Orthodox Church would not allow itself to be used as a platform to serve ElBaradei’s political goals. He also echoed statements made by Ahmed Ezz, secretary for organizational affairs of the ruling National Democratic Party and prominent member of its influential Policies Secretariat, that “ElBaradei is his own obstacle” to success. The Coptic Orthodox Church has a history of supporting prominent members of the current regime. It is widely believed that many Copts voted for President Hosni Mubarak in the 2005 presidential elections. Pope Shenouda III, the Church’s head, has previously endorsed Gamal Mubarak to succeed his father. Many suspect the Church is distancing itself from ElBaradei in fear of an impending alliance between the ex-IAEA chief and the Muslim Brotherhood (MB) in the lead up to parliamentary elections next fall. ElBaradei, a committed secularist, has declared his willingness to work with all parties who support constitutional reform and fair elections. Last May, ElBaradei met with the MB Parliamentary Bloc leader Saad el-Katatny, a move which angered certain elements of the opposition–such as the Tagammu, Nasserist and Democratic Front parties– but which also earned ElBaradei the support of many Brotherhood members.
–By: Ragab Ramadan

20100524

The annual meeting of the Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church




Cairo: His Holiness Pope Shenouda III presided over the annual meeting of the Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church on the Eve of Pentecost, Saturday, 22 May 2010 with eighty-seven members personally present.

The Synod meets in the Church of St. Antony on the second floor of the Papal Residence at Anba Rueis in Abbesaya, Cairo. From the United Kingdom the bishops attending were Metropolitan Seraphim, Bishop Antony and Bishop Angaelos. The meeting lasted from 10 a.m. to 2 pm and discussed the reports of the synodal sub committees for pastoral care, monasticism, the church rites, diocesan affairs and ecumenism. At the conclusion H.H. Pope Shenouda posed for a group photograph with the Synod members before entertaining them to lunch at the Patriarchate.

In the later afternoon Abba Seraphim, accompanied by Shenouda Mandouh and his wife, Mary, visited the Convent of Price Theodore (Amir Tadros) in Haret-ar-Rhum, where they were received by the Abbess, Tamev Adrosios, before returning to Heliopoils to dine with Mr. Mamdouh Abdou and his family.

Source:britishorthodox.org

20100514

Seven New Bishops for the Orthodox Church of the East

Kottyam (Kerala, India):The Indian Orthodox Church have consecrated seven new Bishops on May 12th 2010 at Mar Elia Cathedral (Cathedral of Catholicos of the East & Malankara Metropolitan) , Kottayam. His Holiness Mor Beselius Marthoma Dydimus I (Catholicose of the Apostolic Throne of St Thomas and Malankara Metropolitan was the chief celebrant assisted by His Beatitude Paulose Mar Militheos (Catholicose Designate) and other Metropolitans of the Church. Seven Bishops are consecrated together for the for the first time in the history of the Indian Orthodox Church.
New Names of Bishops: Dr. Yuhanon Mar Dimithrayos (Fr. Dr. John Mathews), Dr. Yuhanon Mar Thevodoros (Fr.Dr. Nathaniel Ramban), Yacob Mar Elias (Fr. V. M. James), Joshuva Mar Nikodimos (Fr. Yuhanon Ramban), Dr. Zachriaha Mar Aprem (Fr. Dr. Sabu Kuriakose), Dr. Geevarghese Mar Julios (Fr. Dr. George Pulikkottil), Dr. Abraham Mar Seraphin (Fr. Dr. V. M. Abraham).

20100512

CATHOLICOS ARAM I MEETS PATRIARCH ZAKKA I IN DAMASCUS

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DAMASCUS: On Wednesday 12 May 2010 Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia His Holiness Aram I met Patriarch Zakka I at the Patriarchate of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch in Damascus. The two Leaders first held a closed session and then Metropolitan George Saliba and Bishop Nareg Alemezian joined them.


During their meeting Patriarch Zakka I and Catholicos Aram I discussed three issues of common concern: First the schism within the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, and the desire of the two groups to ask Catholicos Aram to mediate. Second, decision of the Coptic Orthodox Church to suspend its membership in the Middle East Council of Churches, following a decision taken by the Executive Committee at its last meeting. After the visit of Patriarch Zakka to Pope Shenouda III, the Coptic Orthodox Church was asking Catholicos Aram who did not attend the last meeting of the Executive Committee, to mediate and settle the issue. Three, strengthening the witness of the Oriental Orthodox Family in the Middle East in response to rising ecumenical and interreligious concerns.

20100511

Coptic Orthodox Church quits Middle East Churches Council

Cairo, May 10, 2010: The Coptic Orthodox Church has relinquished membership in the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) after being accused of “treason” by Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem H B Theophilos at the last council meeting held in Jordan on 19 April. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of Coptic Orthodox Church has reportedly rejected offers by other member churches to mediate a resolution of the dispute. At the April meeting, H B Theophilos denied Coptic representative H E Bishoi, secretary of the Coptic Holy Synod, a chance to defend his church. The dispute initially arose after the majority of council members called for the dismissal of MECC Secretary-General Girgis Saleh–who had been nominated by the Coptic Church–for the many problems that plagued the council during his term in office. Sources close to the Coptic Church say that His Holiness Shenouda is demanding an official apology from H E Theophilos before he restores the church‟s membership in the council.

20100508

Patriarch Zakka I Visits Pope Shenouda III of the See of Alexandria

Cairo, Egypt, May 07 2010: His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch visited His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of Coptic Orthodox Church at Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate on May 05, Wednesday. His Holiness is on a visit to the Coptic Orthodox Church, a sister church of Holy Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch, which continues till May 07. Secretary to the Holy Episcopal Synod and Archbishop of Lebanon, Mar Theophilose George Saliba, Patriarchal Vicar for Beirut Mor Clemis Daniel and Patriarchal Assistant Mor Philoxenos Mathias Nayis accompanying His Holiness Zakka I.

20100226

Strengthen ecumenical movement: Catholicos Aram I



The Hindu Staff Reporter

KOTTAYAM: Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, of the Armenian Apostolic Church, has stressed the importance of the ecumenical movement in the 21st Century.
Delivering his keynote address at the ecumenical meet held at the Orthodox Theological Seminary here on Thursday, the Catholicos reiterated his admiration for the multi-cultural and multi-religious society in India which has championed the cause of unity in diversity.


The Catholicos also recalled the contributions made by eminent scholars including the late Bishop Paulos Mar Gregorios and M.M. Thomas to the world ecumenical movement.


Catholicos-designate Paulos Mar Milithios of the Orthodox Church presided. Bishop Zacharias Mar Theophilos, Suffragan Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church inaugurated the function. CSI Bishop Thomas Samuel delivered the benedictory address.

Catholicos Aram I and Catholicos Baselius Mar Thoma Didymos I of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church will jointly offer prayers on Friday at Devalokam .



Source: The Hindu Friday, Feb 26, 2010

Photo: Malankara Orthodox Church.in

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"THE CHURCHES OF INDIA PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN THE ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT" - HIS HOLINESS ARAM I

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Kochi : "The ecumenical movement owes a great deal to the churches of India. With their theological input, active participations in ecumenical discussions, and firm commitment to the ecumenical vision they played a significant role in the formation and expansion of the ecumenical movement", said His Holiness Aram I on his arrival to Cochin, India, on Wednesday 24 February.

Speaking about his visit to India, Aram I said that although he is invited by His Holiness Catholicos Moran Mor Baselios Marthoma Didymos I of Indian (Malankara) Orthodox Church, he considers his visit ecumenical: "Ecumenism is not out there; it is a local reality. We must be ecumenical primarily on the local level. How can the churches manifest concretely the ecumenical spirit through joint ventures, by sharing their joy and problems, and addressing together common concerns? This must become a permanent concern and challenge for the churches" according to Aram I.

In response to a question regarding the prevailing conflict within the Indian Orthodox Church, Catholicos Aram I said that "he has not come to India with a mission of reconciliation". He also added that "he cannot remain indifferent in view of the division in the same church. Working for unity and reconciliation is at the heart of Christian vocation".

His Holiness stressed the vital importance of interreligious dialogue. In his view, "interreligious dialogue is no more an academic exercise, it is integral to our daily life in this globalized world. India is a model of a pluralist society in which dialogue is an existential reality. Hence, we must take this dimension of Christian life and witness very seriously". His Holiness, who has a rich experience in the area of interreligious dialogue, pointed out that Indian theologians have brought, out of their concrete experiences, a significant contribution to many initiatives of dialogue on the global level.

The visitation program of Aram I will include meetings with the leaderships of the churches of India, meeting with the holy synod of the Indian Orthodox Church, public lectures on ecumenical topics and visits to the churches and church-related institutions.

His Holiness is accompanied by H.E. Arch. Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran, H.E. Nareg Alrmezian, Ecumenical officer, and his secretary V. Rev. Mesrob Sarkissian.

Armenian Orthodox Church. Org

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20100225

Visit of the Pontiff of All Armenians to Jerusalem

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Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin: From February 15-16, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians paid a pontifical visit to Jerusalem. Upon arrival at the Ben Gurion International Airport of Tel Aviv, His Holiness and the pontifical delegation were met by members of the Brotherhood of St. James (Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem), Israeli authorities and representatives of the Armenian Community.



After a prayer service in the Chapel of St. Jacob, the Pontiff of All Armenians extended his blessings to the clergy, students of the St. Tarkmanchatz School and the faithful in attendance.


In the evening, the members of the St. James Brotherhood, led by the Catholicos of All Armenians, celebrated the 20th anniversary of Enthronement, 70th anniversary of priesthood and 91st birthday of His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem. Representatives from the Coptic, Latin and Greek Orthodox Churches of Jerusalem participated in the celebration.



During the celebration, a decree was read from the President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sargsian, awarding His Beatitude the Medal of St. Mesrop Mashtots. His Holiness extended his blessings and appreciation to the commendable Patriarch and bestowed on him the medal.



On February 16 the Catholicos of All Armenians presided over a meeting of the Patriarchate. The Brotherhood members discussed issues concerning the preservation and management of the Armenian properties in the Holy Land as well as other challenges facing the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem.


His Holiness and the members of his delegation visited the Church of the Holy Resurrection at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, to bow and renew their oaths in front of the Lord’s Sepulchre.



Accompanying His Holiness to Jerusalem were: His Eminence Archbishop Datev Gharibian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Brazil, His Eminence Archbishop Kissag Mouradian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Argentina, His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, His Eminence Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Director of Inter-church Relations Department of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, His Eminence Archbishop Navasard Kjoyan, Primate of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese, His Grace Bishop Arshak Khachatrian, Chancellor of the Mother See and Rev. Fr. Karekin Hambardzumian as Staff-Bearer to His Holiness.


Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Information Services Feb 17, 2010

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Indian legacy testimony to religious harmony: His Holiness Catholicos Aram I



Catholicos Aram I and entourage on week-long visit to State


KOTTAYAM: His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia of the Armenian Apostolic Church, who is on a week-long visit to the State, has commended that the Indian legacy was testimony to inter-religious and inter-community cooperation and harmony.


The pontiff, who arrived at Devalokam, the headquarters of the Malanakra Orthodox Syrian Church on Wednesday evening, was welcomed by His Holiness Baselius Mar Thoma Didymos I, Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan of the Indian Orthodox Church.


All the Metropolitans of the Orthodox Church, Archbishop Mar Joseph Powathil of the Syro-Malabar Roman Catholic Church, Bishop Thomas Samuel of CSI Madhya Kerala diocese, Yooyakim Mar Koorilos of the Kottayam diocese of Mar Thoma Church of Malabar, Joseph M. Puthusseri, MLA, and others were also present on the occasion.

Earlier, Catholicos Aram I and his entourage who arrived at the Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery ( Kochi), were received by Catholicos designate of the Orthodox Church Paulos Mar Milithios and other s church dignitaries.


Ecumenical meet

The pontiff will address the ecumenical conference at the Orthodox Theological Seminary here on Thursday. Catholicos Aram I, founder of the World Religions for Peace movement, will speak on the Relevance of Ecumenical Movement in the 21st Century.

Source: The Hindu

Photo: Malankara Orthodox Church.in

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20100224

His Holiness Catholicos Aram I arrived at Kochi



Kochi : His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia of the Armenian Apostolic Church arrived in Nedumbassery, Kerala at 8:00Am on Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 with his delegation comprised of H.E. Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran, H.G. Bishop Nareg Alemezian, Ecumenical Officer, and Rev. Fr. Mesroh Sarikissian Secretary to the Catholicos.


He was welcomed by H.B. Paulos Mar Milithios Metropolitan, Catholicos Designate, H.G. Gabriel Mar Gregorios Metropolitan, President of Department of Ecumenical Relations, H.G. Yuhanon Mar Meletius Metropolitan, H.G. Dr. Thomas Mar Athanasius Metropolitan, H.G. Dr. Mathews Mar Severios Metropolitan, H.G. Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Metropolitan, H.G. Dr. Yakob Mar Irenaios Metropolitan, H.G. Yuhanon Mar Polycarpos Metropolitan, Fr. Dr. Johns Abraham Konat, Priest Trustee, Sri M.G. George Muthoot, Lay Trustee, Sri. George Joseph, Association Secretary, and many priests of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

H. H. Catholicos Aram I, the head of the Catholicosate of Cilicia will pay an apostolic visit to Malankara as per the invitation of H. H. Baselius Marthoma Didymus I, from 24th to 28th Feb 2010. Reception and Ecumenical Meeting at Orthodox Seminary.



Source: Malankara Orthodox.T V

Photo: Malankara Orthodox Church.in


Programme: 1 2


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HIS HOLINESS ARAM I BEGINS FIVE-DAY OFFICIAL VISIT TO THE ORTHODOX SYRIAN CHURCH IN INDIA

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ANTELIAS: On Tuesday 23 February 2010, His Holiness Aram I left for India today in response to the invitation of His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I, Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan, the supreme head of the Orthodox Church of the East. His Holiness is accompanied by Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran (Iran), Bishop Nareg Alemizian (Ecumenical Officer) and Father Mesrob Sarkissian (Staff-Bearer).



While in India he will meet with Heads of Churches and other Communities. His Holiness will also lecture at the Kottayam Orthodox Theological Seminary and address clergy, theologians and academics in different institutions that he will be visiting.



On his way back Catholicos Aram will visit the United Arab Emirates and meet with Armenian communities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharja.



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20100208

Patriarch His Holiness Aram I to Visit Malankara

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DEVALOKAM: His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the head of the Catholicosate of Cilicia will pay an apostolic visit to Kerala as per the invitation of His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Didymus I, the supreme head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church from 24th to 28th Feb 2010.

His Holiness Aram I, the head of one of the ancient oriental orthodox churches founded in the latter half of the 1st centaury, was elected twice as the moderator of World Council of Churches. His Holiness is well known as a spokesperson for world peace and interchurch and inter-religious amity.
H. H. is the President of the World Religions for Peace and the World Religions Museum Foundation.

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20100201

The Seventh Meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue Between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches

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REPORT

The Seventh Meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue
Between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches

Antelias, Lebanon, January 27 to 31, 2010


The seventh meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches took place at the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias, Lebanon, from January 27 to 31, 2010. The meeting was graciously hosted by His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia. It was chaired jointly by His Eminence Cardinal Walter Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, and His Eminence Metropolitan Bishoy of Damiette, General Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church.


Joining delegates from the Catholic Church were representatives of the following Oriental Orthodox Churches: the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Syrian Orthodox Church, the Armenian Apostolic Church (Catholicosate of All Armenians), the Armenian Apostolic Church (Holy See of Cilicia), the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church, and the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. No representative of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church was able to attend.


The two delegations met separately on January 27, and held plenary sessions each day from January 28 to January 30. Each day of the plenary sessions began with a common celebration of Morning Prayer. At its initial session, the members of the Joint Commission considered reactions to and evaluations of the agreed statement that it had issued one year earlier, “Nature, Constitution and Mission of the Church.” This document had been approved for publication by the Joint Commission and is now being considered by the authorities of their churches.


The studies prepared for this session focused on two topics: the ways in which the churches expressed their communion with one another in the first five centuries and the reception of councils. The papers presented included “Ecclesial Communion in Armenia and Surrounding Regions” by Rev. Fr. Boghos Levon Zekiyan, “The Order of Reception of the Ecumenical Councils in the Armenian Church and their Relation to the Other Local Councils” by Archbishop Yeznik Petrossian, “How Churches Understood the Reception of the Ecumenical Councils, How Churches Expressed their Communion in the First Five Centuries, and Whether Rome Was Given Any Special Role. From the Perspective of the Coptic Orthodox Church” by Metropolitan Bishoy of Damiette, “Communion and Councils: The Persian Church in the First Five Centuries” by Professor Dietmar W. Winkler, “Exercise of Communion in the Church of St. Thomas Christians in India” by Rev. Fr. Matthew Vellanickal, and “The Reception of the Three Ecumenical Councils by the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church” by Rev. Fr. John Matthews.


During the course of the meeting, which took place in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, the members carefully examined the papers presented and reached a number of conclusions. It was noted that until the middle of the fifth century, the churches did not exist in isolation, but were in communion with one other. Signs of this communion included the exchange of synodical letters and letters of enthronement, the veneration of common saints, the exchange of visits and, above all, sharing in the sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist. This communion was based on an understanding that the churches shared the same faith, and willingness to defend it together against heresies and other threats. They also saw themselves as engaged in the same mission of evangelizing the nations. This was often a “horizontal communion” where churches were most intensely in relation to neighboring churches in the same region, but also with other churches throughout the world.


On the morning of January 27, the members of the Joint Commission, together with His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, paid a visit to His Excellency Michel Sleiman, the President of Lebanon, in the Presidential Palace at Baabda. The President welcomed the delegation to his country and presented his condolences to the representatives of the Ethiopian Church over the crash of an Ethiopian airplane near Beirut on Monday, January 25. In his remarks, the President observed that recent events had illustrated the importance of including minorities in the political life of nations. He said that Lebanon is an example of this political inclusiveness since the constitution gives all the country’s ethnic and religious communities a political role whatever their numerical size. He also emphasized the need to organize capitalism in democratic countries in a way that protects the interests of minorities, especially the poor and the vulnerable.


On the evening of the same day, the Joint Commission members were received by His Beatitude and Eminence Cardinal Mar Nasrallah Butros Sfeir, Patriarch of the Maronite Church, at the patriarchate in Bkerké. During an ecumenical prayer service in the patriarchal chapel, the Patriarch extended a warm welcome to his guests, and spoke highly of the agreed statement finalized by the Joint Commission in January 2009. This text, the Patriarch stated, “presents the ecclesiological tradition common to all those churches, a tradition which remained plentiful and sound, in spite of 1500 years of separation.” He also spoke of the positive ecumenical relations that exist among the churches of Lebanon, and wished the members great success in their meeting, which he saw as a sign of encouragement and hope. After the prayer service, His Beatitude hosted a dinner for the Joint Commission members and the spiritual heads of Christian communities in Lebanon.


On the morning of January 28, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the members of the Joint Commission. In his remarks, the Catholicos offered his views on the present state of ecumenism, and said that he has come to a renewed appreciation of the work of the bilateral dialogues. He had studied the 2009 agreed statement carefully and appreciated it very much. His Holiness said that in the dialogues the members must never loose sight of the many things we have in common, and not focus exclusively on our differences. He was critical of a tendency of some ecumenical circles to divert their attention to more social issues. He expressed the hope that the Joint International Commission would endeavor to bring about visible unity of the Church, an objective that he as Moderator of the World Council of Churches had worked to achieve. After meeting the Catholicos, the group prayed at the memorial to the Armenian genocide of 1915 on the grounds of the Catholicosate. On the evening of the same day, the Catholicos hosted an official dinner at the Catholicosate that was attended by the spiritual heads of Christian communities in Lebanon, Armenian members of the Lebanese government and parliament, and Brotherhood and Central Executive Council members of the Holy See of Cilicia.


On January 29, the co-chairmen held a press conference at the invitation of Bishop Beshara Raï, the President of the Episcopal Commission for Social Communications. It took place at the Catholic Information Center, which is under the direction of the Assembly of Catholic Patriarchs and Bishops of Lebanon. Bishop Nareg Alemezian, Ecumenical Officer of the Holy See of Cilicia, introduced the co-chairmen, and highlighted that “the presence in Lebanon of our brothers from the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches is an occasion of spiritual joy and a sign of solidarity with our churches in the Middle East.” Cardinal Kasper spoke of the importance of the participation of the faithful in the dialogue because the unity of the Church concerns the whole people of God and not theologians alone. Metropolitan Bishoy described the history of the composition of the Joint Commission from the preparatory meeting in 2003 until this seventh meeting. He added that the Commission meets alternatively in Rome and in countries where Oriental Orthodox are present. On the evening of the same day, the members of the Joint Commission attended a dinner hosted by Metropolitan George Saliba.


On Sunday January 31, the members of the Joint Commission attended the Holy Eucharist in the Cathedral of the Catholicosate of Cilicia presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Cardinal Kasper preached the homily.


The eighth meeting of the International Commission will take place in Rome at the invitation of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. Arrivals will be on January 24, 2011. The two delegations will meet separately on January 25, and participate in the conclusion of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This will be followed by plenary sessions on January 26, 27 and 28, with departures on January 29. At the eighth plenary meeting, the members of the Commission will deepen their study of the communion and communication that existed between our churches until the mid-fifth century of Christian history, as well as the role played by monasticism.


The members of the Commission are:

Representatives of the Oriental Orthodox Churches (in alphabetical order)


Antiochian Syrian Orthodox Church: H.E. Mor Theophilus George Saliba, Archbishop of Mount Lebanon, Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Syrian Orthodox Church, Beirut, Lebanon; H.E. Kuriakose Theophilose, Metropolitan of the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Theological Seminary and President of the Ecumenical Secretariat of the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church in India, Ernakulam, India;

Armenian Apostolic Church: Catholicosate of all Armenians: H.E. Khajag Barsamian, Archbishop of the Eastern Diocese of the USA, New York (Represented by H.G. Armash Nalbandian, Armenian Orthodox Church Diocese of Damascus); H.E. Archbishop Yeznik Petrossian, General Secretary of Inter-Church Affairs of the Holy See of Etchmiadzin, Armenia;

Armenian Apostolic Church: Holy See of Cilicia: H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy in the USA, New York; H.G. Bishop Nareg Alemezian, Ecumenical Officer of the Holy See of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon;

Coptic Orthodox Church: H.E. Anba Bishoy (co-chair), Metropolitan of Damiette, Egypt, General Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church; Rev. Fr. Shenouda Maher Ishak, West Henrietta, New York, USA; H.G. Bishop Daniel of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Sydney, Australia (observer);

Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church: Rev. Fr. Kaleab Gebreselassie Gebru, Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Patriarchate, Asmara, Eritrea (unable to attend);

Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church: Rev. Fr. Megabe Biluy Seife Selassie Yohannes, Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarchate, Addis Ababa (unable to attend). The Ethiopian Church was represented at this meeting by H.E. Archbishop Demetrios of the United Arab Emirates and Lebanon; Rev. Fr. Abba Gebre Kidan of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church of Lebanon;

Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church: H.E. Metropolitan Dr. Gabriel Mar Gregorios, President of the Department of Ecumenical Relations, Diocese of Trivandrum, India; Rev. Dr. John Mathews (co-secretary), Secretary of the Department of Ecumenical Relations, Kottayam, India.


Representatives of the Catholic Church


His Eminence Cardinal Walter Kasper (co-chair), President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity;

Most Reverend Paul-Werner Scheele, Bishop Emeritus of Würzburg, Germany;
Most Reverend Youhanna Golta, Patriarchal Auxiliary Bishop of the Coptic Catholic Patriarchate, Cairo, Egypt;

Most Reverend Jules Mikhael Al-Jamil, Procurator of the Syrian Catholic Patriarchate to the Holy See and Apostolic Visitator in Europe, Rome;
Most Reverend Peter Marayati, Armenian Catholic Archbishop of Aleppo, Syria;

Most Reverend Woldetensae Ghebreghiorghis, Apostolic Vicar of Harar, Ethiopia, President of the Ecumenical Commission of the Catholic Church in Ethiopia and Eritrea;

Rev. Fr. Frans Bouwen M.Afr., Consultant to the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity; Jerusalem;

Rev. Fr. Columba Stewart, OSB, Executive Director, Hill Museum and Manuscript Library, St. John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota, USA;
Rev. Fr. Ronald G. Roberson, CSP, Associate Director of the Secretariat for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, US Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC, USA;

Rev. Fr. Paul Rouhana, OLM, Université Saint-Esprit, Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon;

Rev. Fr. Mark Sheridan, OSB, Pontificio Ateneo S. Anselmo, Rome;

Rev. Fr. Mathew Vellanickal, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Changanacherry, India;

Rev. Fr. Boghos Levon Zekiyan, Pontifical Oriental Institute, Rome;
Prof. Dietmar W. Winkler, Consultant to the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Salzburg, Austria.

Rev. Fr. Gabriel Quicke, official of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Rome (co-secretary).


Antelias, Lebanon, January 31, 2010

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ECUMENISM NEEDS CLEAR ORIENTATION AND FOCUS - HIS HOLINESS ARAM I

ANTELIAS: "Depicting the present state of the ecumenical movement in terms of crisis has become a general trend; I do not share this approach" stated His Holiness Aram I. He said that "seeking new vision, redefining its orientation, revising its agenda, restructuring its programmatic priorities are integral to the very nature of the ecumenical movement". Catholicos Aram, who has served 15 years a Moderator of the World Council of Churches, reminded that "with ecumenism we are dealing with movement, not institution, with vision not programme, with fellowship, not with management". Hence, according to Aram I reducing the ecumenical movement to its institutional expression will be the end of it.


Aram I believes that the ecumenical movement must remain "restless, in permanent crisis, seeking new ways of articling its vision". However, for Aram I the ecumenical movement is actually "disoriented, its focus is not clear and its raison d'être has become shaky. Here is the problem". In his view this situation is largely due to "non-committal ecumenism of the churches, as well as the shift of interest from church unity related issues to moral-ethical matters, inter-religious dialogue and confessional ecumenism".


His Holiness stressed the need for a "credible, relevant, reliable and responsive ecumenism, an ecumenism with which the churches can identify themselves". Aram I said that the discussion on the reconfiguration of the ecumenical movement that the WCC started must continue with the active participation of the churches.


These views of Aram I were shared with a few reporters at the end of the meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Charities which was held at the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon, from 27-30 January 2010.

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20100130

HIS HOLINESS BASILILIOS MAR THOMA DIDMOS I, PATRIARCH OF THE MALANKARA ORTHODOX SYRIAN CHURCH INVITES HIS HOLINESS ARAM I TO INDIA




ANTELIAS, 01-29-2010: His Holiness Aram I has been holding private meetings with the representatives of the churches taking part in the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue Between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

On Friday 29 January 2010, he met with Arch Bishop Gabriel Mar Gregorios and Mathew Velanikal of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

The Arch Bishop transmitted the brotherly love of their Patriarch, briefed Catholicos Aram on the latest developments in their Church and handed a letter from Catholicos Didmos I inviting His Holiness Aram I to visit India.

After thanking the Catholicos for the invitation, His Holiness Aram I and the guests discussed relations between the two sister churches.

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20100128

"BILATERAL DIALOGUES MUST SHIFT THEIR EMPHASIS FROM CONSENSUS-ORIENTED AGREEMENT TO CONVERGENCE-ORIENTED PROCESSES" - ARAM I




Addressing the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches, meeting at the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon, His Holiness Aram I emphasized the crucial importance of bilateral dialogues for the future course of the ecumenical movement. He said that multilateralism and bilateralism need to be taken in their inter-connectedness, complementing and strengthening each other on the way towards the visible unity of the church.


Referring to the theological dialogue between the Oriental Orthodox Churches and the Catholic Churches, the Catholicos reminded that in the course of history several initiatives have been made in the form of ecumenical encounter, theological talks and joint actions between the Catholic Church and the churches of the Oriental Orthodox family. In 2003 these churches formally embarked on theological dialogue. Catholicos Aram I drew the attention of the Joint Commission to the following points:


1.- After so many years of christocentric ecumenism, he said that the last decade has witnessed an increasing move towards ecclesiocentric ecumenism. According to His Holiness, ecclesiology must remain a priority on the ecumenical agenda. The churches have different concepts of unity because they have different ecclesiological teachings; the churches are divided in respect to ethical issues, because they have different ecclesiological self-understanding. Catholicos Aram also emphasized the need to develop a holistic perspective which will enable the churches to have interactive approach to ecclesiology, ethics and missiology.





2.- His Holiness reminded that the churches are existentially exposed to the moral-ethical repercussions of secularism, syncretism and of so many "ism"s, and are more divided in their response to these issues than in doctrinal matters. Therefore, he strongly suggested that bilateral dialogues seriously tackle these issues and their theological and pastoral implications.


3.- According to His Holiness, who has a long experience in bilateral dialogues, these dialogues must shift their emphasis from consensus-oriented agreement to convergence-oriented processes. In his opinion, consensus implies negotiation within a given time-frame; it is a static reality while convergence is a dynamic process which is not confined to any time-line and agenda and provides open space for greater and creative interaction.


4.- His Holiness also proposed to develop a new perception of reception that involves the whole people of God. He said that the findings of bilateral dialogues must be appropriated by the people; otherwise they become sheer academic exercise. He said that people-oriented reception process implies awareness-building and collaboration on the local level. Reaching out to the people must become an ecumenical priority, otherwise ecumenism will lose its relevance and credibility.




5.- Aram I underscored the need to affirm the commonalties that exist among the churches. Bilateral theological dialogues deal with controversial issues and project the divided image of Christianity. We must affirm our God-given unity, at the same time articulating our commitment to heal the brokenness of the church. This must become our ecumenical strategy, stated His Holiness Aram I.

www.armenianorthodoxchurch.org

PHOTOS: www.armenianorthodoxchurch.org

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20100127

HIS HOLINESS ARAM I AND CARDINAL WALTER KASPER MEET IN ANTELIAS


ANTELIAS- On Wednesday 27 January 2010, His Holiness Aram I and H.E. Cardinal Walter Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, held a private meeting within the context of the meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Among other issues they discussed the contribution of bilateral theological dialogues to ecumenical relations.

The meeting will be concluded on Sunday 31 January with the Holy Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral where the Cardinal will preach.

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HIS HOLINESS ARAM I AND THE MEMBERS OF THE CATHOLIC AND ORIENTAL ORTHODOX THEOLOGICAL DIALOGUE COMMISSION VISIT THE PRESIDENT OF LEBANON



ANTELIAS- On Wednesday 27 January the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches, currently meeting in Antelias, visited the President H.E. Michel Suleiman. After introducing the members of the delegation to the President, His Holiness Aram I explained the purpose of the commission and the importance of its work in promoting ecumenical relations.



The President welcomed the guests and expressed his appreciation of their work. He then spoke briefly about the political situation in Lebanon and the region. At the end of the visit, the delegates thanked the President and hoped that the unity government will bring peace to the country.

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20100125

HIS HOLINESS ARAM I EXPRESSES HIS CONDOLENCES TO THE PATRIARCH OF ETHIOPIA


ANTELIAS- Upon hearing the sad news of the crash of the Ethiopian Airlines taking off from Beirut, Catholicos Aram wrote to Abuna Paulus, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church expressing his sorrow for the sad event. In his letter he asked the Patriarch to assure the authorities and the families of the victims of his prayers, and that he beseeched the consolation of the Holy Spirit.

HIS HOLINESS ARAM I CONGRATULATES HIS HOLINESS PATRIARCH IRINEJ OF SERBIA



ANTELIAS- In a letter addressed to His Holiness Patriarch Irinej of Serbia, who was installed on 23 January 2010, Catholicos Aram I expressed his good wishes and hoped that relations between the two churches and ecumenical relations are strengthened under his spiritual leadership.

THE SEVENTH MEETING OF THE INTERNATIONAL JOINT COMMISSION FOR THEOLOGICAL DIALOGUE BETWEEN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND THE ORIENTAL ORTHODOX CHURCHES

ANTELIAS HOSTS THE SEVENTH MEETING OF THE INTERNATIONAL JOINT COMMISSION FOR THEOLOGICAL DIALOGUE BETWEEN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND THE ORIENTAL ORTHODOX CHURCHES


ANTELIAS- Upon the invitation of His Holiness Aram I, the Commission will meet in Antelias 26-31 January 2010. Delegates appointed by the Holy See of Etchmiadzin and the Holy See of Cilicia represent the Armenian Church on this Commission. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Archbishop of the Eastern Diocese in USA, and Bishop Nareg Alemezian, the Ecumenical Officer are the representatives of the Holy See of Cilicia.

The Commission will discuss the role of Ecumenical Councils in the Early Church. On Sunday, 31 January during the closing Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, His Excellency Walter Cardinal Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity will give the sermon.