Welcome

Dr Agnes Abuom

Moderator of the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches

Ecumenical Centre, 30 September 2016

 

I greet you in the name of God the Father.

It is with great pleasure that, I welcome to the Ecumenical Centre on behalf of the World Council of Churches, Your Eminence Professor Ahmad al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam and Sheikh Al Azhar, as well as Your illustrious delegation who are members of the Muslim Council of Elders.

The World Council of Churches as the major international Christian body which brings together and represents about 350 churches, from the Orthodox, Anglican, Baptist, Lutheran, Free, United and Independent traditions, is very pleased to be able to meet with this similarly international delegation of significant Muslim leaders. We are glad to be able to welcome all of you to our ecumenical home and in the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey.

The World Council of Churches is committed to reinforcing the important role of religious leaders to continue to work for peace and justice in the world. This will be the main focus of our discussions over the next two days. The pilgrimage of justice and peace, which is the central thrust of the World Council of Churches’ work and vision at the present time, is constituted as a pilgrimage in which we as Christians believe can invite all people of good will to share and contribute.

We are glad to welcome His Eminence Professor Al-Tayyeb and the delegation to travel with us on the way that leads to justice and peace.

God bless you all.