On Wednesday and Thursday, July 2–3, informal talks took place in London between delegations of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Anglican Communion. The meetings were held at the Anglican Communion Office and aimed to strengthen theological and pastoral cooperation.
The Orthodox delegation included Metropolitan Athenagoras of Belgium, Co-Chair of the Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue, Metropolitan Job of Pisidia, Bishop Raphael of Ilion (Assistant Bishop of the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain), and Deacon Eulogios Tsatsas, Coder of the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and newly appointed Orthodox Secretary of the Dialogue Commission.
Representing the Anglican Communion were the Anthony Poggo, Secretary General of the Anglican Communion Office; the Michael Lewis, former Archbishop of the Middle East; the Sarah Rowland Jones (Saint Davids, Wales); and the Neil Vigers from the Anglican Communion Office.
During the discussions, both delegations exchanged thoughts and perspectives on topics of mutual theological, pastoral, and social interest. The dialogue was conducted in a spirit of brotherhood, mutual respect, and a sincere desire for cooperation.
A shared commitment was expressed to continue the theological dialogue and to prepare for the upcoming plenary session, which is scheduled to take place in Wales.
As part of the visit, the delegations had the opportunity to tour the remarkable Library of Westminster Abbey, where they were introduced to valuable manuscripts and historical archives. The visit concluded with both delegations attending a Vespers service at the historic Abbey, celebrated in an atmosphere of reverence and solemnity.
