An Orthodox view on ecumenism and globalisation highlighted the second day of the World Council of Churches’ Conference on World Mission and Evangelism in Athens.
Dr Athanasios P. Papathanasiou, professor in the Higher Ecclesiastical School of Athens, rejected the two often used characterisations of globalisation and post modernity.
"Avoiding the simplistic interpretations which see globalisation and post-modernity only as a melting-pot or, on the contrary, only as an inevitable clash of civilisations, we are called to see the present state of affairs as an occasion for critical creativity," Papathanasiou said in a presentation to the plenary on 10 May.
To the Orthodox leader, life is a "conversation to the Trinitarian mode of existence" that can only be viewed when "paired with relationship."
Therefore, Papathanasiou encouraged church and mission bodies to understand the "authentic experience" by realising that "otherness is not something parallel or opposite to [one’s own] identity." He said otherness may be a mere element in relationships in respect to the ecumenical movement.
To view the full text of the statement, visit: www.mission2005.org.
Theresa Kavenga
Christian Today Correspondent
-
From Tyndale to today: The enduring hunger for the Bible
-
More than 4,200 Christians killed in Nigeria this year - report
-
800 years on: Why St Francis of Assisi still captivates the world
-
Blackburn Cathedral puts the Bible where it belongs
-
Franklin Graham preaches with warning from Sodom in Manchester
-
The book that changed Sweden: 500 years of the Swedish New Testament
Most Popular
News
Televangelist Jim Bakker dies at 86
Jim Bakker, the controversial televangelist who once owned one of the most popular theme parks in the United States but later went to prison for his financial misconduct, has died at age 86.
Christian faith seen as ‘significantly more relevant’ to young people than church, new report finds
The Christian faith is perceived as “significantly more relevant to children” and young people than the church itself, according to new research which calls on churches to rethink how they engage the next generation.
Winnie-the-Pooh centenary marked with new Christian reflection resources for schools
Church schools are being invited to explore Christian values through the much-loved stories of Winnie-the-Pooh as part of new resources produced to mark the character’s 100th anniversary.
UK ranks seventh globally for daily Bible App use as searches for anxiety and hope rise
The UK has ranked seventh in the world for daily Bible App engagement, as new figures from YouVersion suggest growing numbers of people are turning to Scripture for reassurance, guidance and spiritual support.
