The second preparatory meeting for the 19th Plenary Session of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the Lutheran World Federation took place from May 10 to 16, 2026, in Sète, France.
According to the official announcement, the meeting was co-chaired by Metropolitan Kyrillos of Krini on behalf of the Orthodox Church and Bishop Johann Schneider on behalf of the Lutheran World Federation.
The central theme of the discussions was “Synodality and Primacy,” with participants examining the dynamic relationship between synodality, understood as the collective participation of the faithful in the life of the Church, and primacy, viewed as a ministry of unity exercised at different levels within the ecclesial body.
Messages of encouragement were sent by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Dr. Anne Burghardt.
During the sessions, participants explored the theological foundations of synodality and primacy from historical, canonical, and sacramental perspectives. Particular attention was given to the history of councils, the interpretation and reception of synodal decisions, and the ecclesiological significance of the Divine Eucharist and Baptism. Among the speakers were prominent Orthodox and Lutheran theologians and scholars.
On May 11, the participants were welcomed by Catherine Prat, director of Domaine du Lazaret, while on the following day Pastor Jean-François Breyne, President of the Regional Council of the United Protestant Church of France, addressed the gathering.
During their stay in France, members of the Commission also visited the Papal Palace and the historic city of Avignon. On May 14, they participated in the Lutheran service for the Feast of the Ascension, celebrated by Bishop Johann Schneider.
The meeting concluded in an atmosphere of fraternity, prayer, and mutual understanding, with the Commission expressing gratitude to the Lutheran World Federation and the United Protestant Church of France for their hospitality and excellent organization.
It was also announced that the next preparatory meeting for the 19th Plenary Session will take place from October 12 to 15, 2026, in Athens, hosted by the Holy Metropolis of Peristeri.
