The Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches convened its fall meeting on Thursday, October 9. The gathering of church leaders was hosted by the Malankara Archdiocese, at its headquarters in Old Tappan, NJ. Archbishop Mor Titus Yeldho, Primate of the Malankara Archdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church in North America, welcomed his brother bishops.
Present at the latest event were Bishop David of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York and New England (who also serves as President of the Standing Conference); Archbishop Mor Titus Yeldho of the hosting Malankara Archdiocese; Archbishop Mor Dionysios John Kawak of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of the Eastern United States; Archbishop Petros of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Archdiocese of New York; Bishop Sinoda of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Archdiocese of North America; Archbishop Silvanos Ayub of the Knanaya Archdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church; and Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America.
The hierarchs discussed a number of matters, including the ongoing dialogue and cooperation with the Eastern Orthodox churches; the convening of con-celebrated liturgies, conferences, and other events; and various challenges facing the Oriental Orthodox communion in the 21st century, both in their homelands and in the diaspora.
“These regular meetings of the Oriental Orthodox churches reflect our commitment to advance unity and collaboration,” said Bishop Mesrop. “It’s a blessing to strengthen the bonds among our jurisdictions, share updates, and work together on matters of faith, pastoral care, and service in North America.”
Following the meeting, the clergy gathered for an agape meal involving traditional Indian cuisine, concluding the day in fellowship and brotherly love.
Last week saw another event for the Standing Conference: its annual con-celebrated Divine Liturgy of Oriental Orthodox churches. Click here for details.