Christians ought to function as craftsmen of reconciliation, according to the Pope's statements.
Pope Leo XIV and the Ecumenical Week of Stockholm
The Ecumenical Week of Stockholm, taking place from August 18 to 24, is a significant event that celebrates the centennial of the 1925 Universal Christian Conference on Life and Work. This gathering is considered an important stage in the birth of the modern ecumenical movement.
Organized by the Swedish Council of Christian Churches, the week-long event is steeped in history, with its theme, "Time for God's Peace," resonating timely sentiments, as highlighted by Pope Leo XIV. The Pope believes that the unity that Christ wants for his Church must be visible and grows through theological dialogue, common worship, and common testimony.
The organizer of the 1925 Ecumenical Week was none other than Nathan Söderblom, a pioneer of the first ecumenical movement. Archbishop Söderblom, who passed away in 1931, was revered for his efforts in fostering interfaith dialogue and unity among Christians.
Pope Leo XIV, in his message read by Archbishop Flavio Pace, secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, expressed his joy that his delegation can participate in the Ecumenical Week in Stockholm and be present as a sign of the Catholic Church's commitment to continue the path of joint prayer and work.
The Pope also emphasized the importance of peace, referring to it as a sign of the Lord's presence and a task for Christians. He believes that Christians are called to face division with courage, indifference with compassion, and bring healing where there have been wounds.
The 1925 Conference, which brought together Orthodox, Anglican, and Protestant representatives, exhorted Christians to unite in a "practical Christianity" to serve together in the world in the pursuit of peace, justice, and human dignity. This call to action is as relevant today as it was almost a century ago.
The Catholic Church has fully embraced the ecumenical path since the Second Vatican Council. This is evident in the joint commemoration of the Reformation in Lund in 2016, where Pope Francis joined Lutheran leaders in common prayer and repentance.
Moreover, the Pope believes that the Holy Spirit, who inspired the Council of Nicaea and continues to guide us all, will make the Ecumenical Week deepen friendships and awaken a new hope for the unity that the Lord desires among his followers.
The First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, held 1700 years ago, serves as a brave sign of unity in difference and a first testimony of the conviction that our common confession can overcome division and promote communion. The Pope hopes that the Ecumenical Week of Stockholm will continue this legacy, fostering unity and peace among Christians.
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