The Ecumenical Patriarchate and Christian Unity

Our Ecumenical Throne is fully aware of its historic heritage and of its responsibility, by the grace of God, to do whatever is possible, to serve the unity of the Church. This is why from the early beginning of this century, our Church undertook what has now become a well-known initiative. This initiative greatly contributed to the shaping of this exciting and dynamic phenomenon known as the Ecumenical Movement. It was the force of this dynamic phenomenon that impelled Christians to an exodus. This exodus began a journey leading Christians out of their self-sufficiency and isolation in search of each other. They were led by the Spirit of God, in a spirit of repentance, pardon, reconciliation, and Christian love. - Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (December 11, 1995) Contents The Ecumenical Patriarchate and Christian Unity The Gospel of Reconciliation p. 1 The Early Leadership of the Ecumenical Patriarchate p. 4 The Early Patriarchal Encyclicals p. 6 The Earl