Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia, along with Metropolitan Ignatije of Braničevo, a member of the Holy Synod of Bishops, welcomed Dr. Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches, and Dr. Andrej Jeftić, director of the Faith and Order Commission of the WCC.
The discussions centered on interchurch relations and the current global challenges faced by churches. Patriarch Porfirije expressed gratitude to the World Council of Churches for their efforts in promoting peace and inter-Christian cooperation. The general secretary reaffirmed the WCC’s support and solidarity with the Serbian Orthodox Church. The meeting highlighted the importance of building on the legacy of St. Nikolaj of Žiča and Ohrid to strengthen inter-Christian solidarity and address social challenges.
The General Secretary also expressed solidarity with the Serbian people and their Church in Kosovo and Metohija, acknowledging the hardships they have endured. The WCC’s Central Committee decided to visit the Serbian Orthodox Church in 2023 as part of the “Pilgrimage of Justice and Peace” initiative. Patriarch Porfirije emphasized the need for international support and dialogue in resolving challenges.
In response to Rev. Pillay’s inquiry about how the WCC could assist the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Porfirije welcomed any form of support, highlighting the importance of an international platform for dialogue provided by the WCC.
The meeting was attended by various officials from the Serbian Orthodox Church, and the WCC delegation visited significant sites in Belgrade. The day concluded with the opening of an exhibition showcasing the cooperation between the Patriarchate of Serbia and the WCC.
Source: Patriarchate of Serbia
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
