“The ecumenical spirit has deep roots in Armenian civilization,” said His Holiness Karekin II on Wednesday. “And today as well, the Armenian Church welcomes expanded dialogue—a quest for common ground and mutual support—for the glory of Christ’s holy church, the peace of the world, and the welfare of all mankind.”
The Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians was speaking before an audience of more than 4,000 people: church leaders from around the world who had gathered in Busan, South Korea, for the 10th Assembly of the World Council of Churches.
The WCC Assembly—which meets every four years—is convening from October 30 through November 8. His Holiness Karekin II delivered his remarks during the opening ceremony, as a message of blessing on the proceedings. Leaders of roughly 360 churches, representing some 150 countries, along with high-ranking government and diplomatic officials, are taking part in the conference.
His Holiness Karekin II departed from Armenia on October 28, leading a delegation of some 17 figures from the worldwide Armenian Church. The Armenian Church has been a member of the WCC since 1962.
