Orthodox Dialogue should be deepened and lead to unity
International Conference called for concrete steps towards rapprochement between Eastern and Oriental Churches.
An international conference on the relationship between the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches has called for intensified efforts toward church unity. In November 2025, representatives from both traditions met at the Holy Cross School of Theology in the USA to assess the existing dialogue and develop concrete measures for closer rapprochement. This was reported by Orthodox Observer. The conference participants noted that fundamental theological commonalities have existed for a long time, but need to be more strongly received and practically implemented in individual local churches. What stands before them is either visible unity with shared Eucharist or a binding clarification of the points that continue to divide. At the same time, it was emphasized that historically developed reservations, lack of familiarity with each other's traditions, and psychological barriers continue to complicate deeper rapprochement.
Practical proposals included enhanced teaching of each other's church traditions in theological education, joint projects in pastoral and cultural areas, as well as overcoming historical condemnations and burdensome terms. In the long term, the participants consider complete church communion achievable. They emphasized that such rapprochement would represent a strong signal of reconciliation and unity within worldwide Orthodoxy.
Previously, UOJ reported that massive emigration weakened the Christian presence in Syria.
