Loppiano – Sophia University Institute’s first Honorary Doctorate Degree to Patriarch Bartholomew I.

Live streaming from Loppiano, 26 October, 5.00pm (Italian time)

IUS president Piero Coda explained the official reason for conferring the doctorate saying that the Patriarch is well known as a convincing and active protagonist of the ecumenical journey toward full unity among Christians, and in the dialogue with people of different religions and convictions. Moreover, he has distinguished himself in his promotion of peace and justice, respect for the natural environment, in conformity with the vision of humanity, history and the cosmos that is guarded and actualised by the spiritual and theological tradition of the Christian East.

The history of the fraternal relationship between the Focolare Movement and the Orthodox had its origin in the extraordinary encounter between Chiara Lubich and Patriarch of Constantinople Athenagoras I. “It was June 13, 1967,” Chiara recounted, “He welcomed me as if he had always known me. ‘I’ve been waiting for you!,’ he exclaimed, and he wanted me to tell him about the Movement’s contacts with Lutherans and Anglicans.” Chiara and Athenagoras had twenty-five meetings. The relationship continued with Patriarch Demetrius I, and the contact continues in the same spirit with the current Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I. Meanwhile the spirituality of the Movement was also welcomed by Christians of the Ancient Oriental Church, and dialogue was developed with Syro-Orthodox, Coptic Christians, Ethiopians, Armenians and Assyrians.

The honorary doctorate adds another important piece to relationship of harmony and friendship with the Focolare Movement, and will be part of the events celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Focolare town of Loppiano.

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