The 4th International Conference of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate on Human Rights, Democracy, and Religious Freedom is currently taking place in the Old Parliament building.
During the conference, George X. Rokas introduced Archbishop Gidaras Grusas of the Roman Catholic Church of Vilnius, who is also the President of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE).
Archbishop Grusas highlighted the importance of the Church’s role in advocating for religious freedom in the face of authoritarian regimes. He emphasized the link between democracy and religious freedom, stating that the Church must be a beacon of hope and justice for those who are persecuted and discriminated against.
Addressing the issue of authoritarianism, Archbishop Grusas warned about Russia’s tactics and the need for a unified stand against such oppressive regimes. He referenced Pope Francis’s stance against using religion to justify violence, citing the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as an example.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
