[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 100 (Wednesday, June 22, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E981]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 THE GREAT AND HOLY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHURCHES

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 22, 2016

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Orthodox Christian 
community, and recognize the historic Great and Holy Council meeting in 
Greece from June 19-26, 2016.
  Bringing together 350 leaders of 14 Orthodox Christian Churches from 
Istanbul to Antioch to Romania to Slovakia, this Council represents 
more than 300 million followers worldwide, including one million 
Americans. While Council attendees self-govern their churches, they 
remain united in their values, faith, liturgy, and following of 
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople.
  Under the leadership of the Ecumenical Patriarch, this is the first 
gathering of Orthodox churches in 1,200 years. The Council will 
underscore the direction, purpose, and mission of Orthodox Christian 
Churches. It is an opportunity to discuss the Diaspora and relations 
with other Christian churches worldwide.
  The Ecumenical Patriarch has an unsurpassed record for steering 
cooperative effort, adding this remarkable Council to his record of 
success. Often referred to as the ``first among equals'' by his 
followers, the Ecumenical Patriarch maintains collegial relations with 
other Patriarchs and hierarchical leaders. His effectiveness as a 
leader is complemented by his gracious and generous spirit.
  Mr. Speaker, at a time when religious division remains a source of 
conflict and suffering, I celebrate this Council for its message of 
unity, tolerance, and peace.

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