Milan's Cardinal Scola pursues 'grassroots' ecumenism with Russian Orthodox Church

November 11, 2013

Cardinal Angelo Scola of Milan, who is in Moscow for a 3-day visit, told the AsiaNews service that ecumenical relations between the Catholic and Russian Orthodox churches must flourish “at the grassroots level,” not merely—or even primarily—through the work of international commissions. Cardinal Scola said that he will be speaking with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill about “the situation of the Orthodox faithful in Milan—how we can relate to them, giving them churches where they can celebrate the divine liturgy, and our experience of a greatly fraternal relationship.” The cardinal said that the Orthodox presence in Milan has been a “constructive” element in Christian life there.

Cardinal Scola said that he also intends to speak with the Russian primate about relations with Islam. The Italian cardinal, who founded the Oasis journal to further inter-religious ties, has been known for his efforts to promote dialogue with Islam.

 

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Further information:

• Card. Scola in Moscow, ecumenism grows from encounter between the faithful (AsiaNews)