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

tradition of our Church, is changed, we will continue to have difficulty in receiving
cooperation from many Catholics in our efforts to implement the recommendations of
the common declaration of Pope Paul VI and Pope Shenouda III as well as those of
the various meetings of the Joint Commission.
I must ask you, therefore, that even if no public and formal declaration about this be
made on your part, something be worked out to bring this practice to an end, as a
matter of fact, in all situations in which a Catholic enters your Church.
I send these reactions to you, as I mentioned in the beginning after long reflection and
wide consultation. They represent the judgement of the major authorities here. It is
my hope that they may form the foundation for further development of sincere and
confident relations between our Churches leading to that unity that is God’s will for
us.
May I ask Your Grace to present to His Holiness, Pope Shenouda III, the expression
of my respect and veneration. His far-sightedness and trust in the Lord have
contributed in a remarkable way to bring us closer as persons and as leaders of our
Churches.
I wish also to assure you of my esteem and affection in the Lord and of my prayers
that God will bless abundantly your efforts for serving His Church to the glory of His
Name.
JOHANNES CARDINAL WILLEBRANDS
President
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