With the blessings and following the guidance of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Mother Church of Constantinople inaugurates a new ministry – the Office for Combating Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, according to an announcement by the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain.
The office will be based in London, operating under the aegis of the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, and under the direct supervision of Archbishop Nikitas.
The following outlines the role, structure, and mission of this new ministry:
Central Coordination Hub:
The Office will serve as a focal point for all activities related to the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery. This will include the collection and dissemination of information, the issuance of public statements, and the organization of meetings, seminars, conferences, and other related activities. By consolidating these efforts, the office will ensure that the Church’s response is coherent, well-informed, and effective.
Center of Educational Resources:
The office will serve as a resource center for educating clergy, laity, and the wider community about the latest developments in human trafficking and modern slavery. It will develop and distribute educational materials, conduct workshops, and provide training to ensure that clergy are well-informed and prepared to address these issues in their ministry. This will enable clergy to participate actively in discussions and initiatives at the local, national, and international levels.
Monthly Online Seminars:
To ensure ongoing engagement and education, the Office will host a monthly online seminar. These seminars will inform clergy and lay leaders worldwide about the latest developments in the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, share best practices, and highlight the ongoing work of the church in this area. This regular communication will foster a global network of informed and active clergy capable of leading efforts in their communities.
Development and Distribution of Educational Resources:
The office will be responsible for the development, publication, and distribution of an educational resource book currently being prepared by the Joint Committee of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Church of Greece. This book will serve as an important tool for clergy and educators, providing theological reflection, practical guidance, and case studies on how to address human trafficking and modern slavery within the context of Orthodox Christian teaching.
Network of Experts and Representatives:
The Office will compile and maintain a comprehensive list of Orthodox clergy, scholars, and NGOs with expertise in the field of human trafficking and modern slavery. This network of experts will be available to speak at conferences, represent the Patriarchate in international forums, and advise on various initiatives. By creating this network, the Church will ensure a strong and credible voice in the global dialogue on these issues.
Location and Supervision:
The Office will be based in London, operating under the aegis of the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain and the direct supervision of Archbishop Nikitas. London, as a global hub, offers strategic advantages for networking, advocacy, and collaboration with other organizations and government agencies involved in the fight against human trafficking. Its location provides easy access to European and international institutions, further enhancing the Church’s ability to influence policy and promote meaningful change.
The establishment of an office dedicated to combating human trafficking and modern slavery within the Holy Archdiocese of Thessaloniki and the United Kingdom is not only a necessary step in fulfilling our Christian duty to protect the vulnerable but also a strategic move that will position the Orthodox Church as a leader in this global struggle. Through coordinated efforts, educational initiatives, and active participation in global dialogue, this office will enable the Church to make a significant impact in the fight against these modern forms of slavery.
