Coptic Church & Ecumenical Movement - Saint Mina Coptic ...

undertaken by our scholars, taking into account the earlier studies on this subject as
well as the informal consultations held in connection with the meetings of the World
Council of Churches. Meanwhile, we express our agreement that our churches could
seek a closer relationship and cooperate with the Eastern Orthodox Churches in
practical affairs.
Meeting of the Oriental Orthodox Patriarchs
In order to deepen the historical, theological and ecclesiastical bonds between the
Coptic, Armenian and Syrian Orthodox Churches the respective heads of churches
decided to meet annually. This strengthens the fellowship between the churches and
monitors their ecumenical involvement at regional and international levels. The
preliminary meeting was in Lebanon at the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, in June
1996.
The first official meeting occurred in Egypt in March 1998, then Syria in March 1999,
followed by Lebanon in May 2000 and then Egypt in March 2001. We publish the
Joint Statements issued by the heads of churches, which includes programs for
implementation. A standing committee was also set up to brief and facilitate the
meetings.
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