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

CHAPTER 10
ECUMENICAL
ORGANISATIONS
The participation of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the ecumenical movement is not
revolution in the history of the Church of Alexandria. It constitutes another attempt,
like those made in the Patristic period to apply to the Apostolic faith to a new
historical situation and existential demands. What is in a sense new today, is the fact
that this attempt is being made together with other Christian bodies with whom there
is no full unity of faith. It is here that the difficulties arise, but it is precisely here that
there also are many signs and real hope for growing in fellowship, understanding and
cooperation.
The various ecumenical organisations continue to respond to the multiple needs of
contemporary society such as these include, the refugee problem; the combating of
racism; the promotion of peace and justice; the protection of the environment; the
enhancement of the role of addressing third world debt; women and youth in the
church and the struggle against poverty and hunger. All these programs of
ecumenical organisations are valuable and constitute a great framework of a common
witness to Christ and service to His children of the world. The Orthodox Church
however, asserts that such activities should not constitute an end in themselves.
PARTICIPATION IN ECUMENICAL ORGANISATIONS
The commitment of the Coptic Orthodox Church to Christian unity is reflected in its
active participation in ecumenical organisations at international, regional and national
levels. The Coptic Church is a founding and active member of: the World Council of
Churches in 1948 (international), the All African Conference of Churches in 1963
(regional) and the Middle East Council of Churches (regional) in 1974. The efforts
and work of the church is acknowledged in having Pope Shenouda III one of the
immediate past presidents of the WCC (1991-1998) and currently one of the four
presidents of the MECC (1994+). Clergy and laity (men, women and youth) have
actively participated in the units and sub units commissions, conferences and
symposiums of the WCC, MECC and the AACC.
In conducting conferences, consultations, seminars and workshops on various issues
such as faith and unity, mission and evangelism, peace, justice and integrity of
creation, the status of women in the church, the role of the family, these ecumenical
organisations offer a unique opportunity for the churches to discuss and contribute to
these matters in a stimulating and rewarding manner. Further it has strengthened the
bond of unity between the Coptic Orthodox Church and other churches.
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