The Conference of European Churches (CEC) highlighted the concerns of European churches in the European Commission's high level meeting with religious leaders hosted by Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission in Brussels on 18 January 2024.
The Article 17 TFEU Annual High-Level meeting brought together religious leaders to reflect on the theme “The European Way of Life in times of instability”.
CEC was represented by CEC President Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, CEC Vice-President Rt Rev. Dr Dagmar Winter and Rev. Dr Agnes Pángyánszky, Lutheran Church in Hungary.
CEC President highlighted the role of churches and religious organisations in bringing hope amid the challenges faced by Europe.
He stressed the need for a meaningful and engaging dialogue with the EU.
CEC Vice-President Winter stressed the need to address issues related to ecology, politics, mental health etc. that are also part of the European way of life.
She highlighted the importance of democracy and the role of the churches in engaging with EU. "CEC is at the heart of churches and faith communities, who are important contributors to the European project of reconciliation, promoting universal values of human dignity, sanctity of life, equality, respect for all, including minorities and caring for the environment," she added.
Pángyánszky highlighted the significance of education, and the need for a stronger dialogue and process to address conflicts that are posing challenges to the region. “It is vital to dialogue further about our agendas and our hearts and our souls, and also about our words and our prayers,” she said.
The meeting was part of a long-standing practice supported by Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which foresees an open, transparent, and regular dialogue between the EU and the churches, religious associations or communities.
Watch video from the high-level meeting
