The catholic church and the coptic orthodox church. 50th anniversary of the meeting between pope Paul VI and pope Shenouda III (1973-2023)

Celebrating 50 Years of Dialogue and Unity

This book commemorates the 50th anniversary of the historic meeting between Pope Paul VI and Pope Shenouda III, a pivotal moment in the journey towards reconciliation between the Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church. The meeting, which took place in May 1973, marked the first time in over 1,000 years that a Bishop of Rome and a Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church had met. It was a significant step forward in ecumenical relations, leading to the signing of the landmark Joint Christological Declaration.

A Journey of Reconciliation

The Joint Christological Declaration, signed by Pope Paul VI and Pope Shenouda III, addressed the Christological controversy that had arisen in the wake of the Council of Chalcedon in 451. This declaration marked the end of a long period of theological debate and paved the way for further dialogue and understanding between the two churches.

Continuing the Dialogue

The meeting between Pope Paul VI and Pope Shenouda III was not just a historical event; it was the beginning of a new era of dialogue and cooperation. The Joint International Commission between the Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church was established, and in 1979, the Principles for Guiding the Search for Unity between the Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church were signed by Pope Shenouda III and Pope John Paul II. This book explores the progress made in ecumenical relations over the past 50 years, highlighting the ongoing efforts to achieve full communion between the two churches.

A Testament to Unity

This book is a testament to the enduring commitment of the Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church to Christian unity. It is a reminder that despite historical differences, the two churches share a common faith in Jesus Christ and a desire to work together for the good of the world. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of ecumenical relations and the ongoing journey towards Christian unity.