Press Release No: 04/22
26 February 2022
Brussels

President of the Conference of European Churches (CEC) Rev. Christian Krieger in his special message at the first day of the European Regional Pre-Assembly called the European Union, political leaders and the international community to not spare any efforts in limiting bloodshed and ensuring peace through diplomatic dialogue in Ukraine, while maintaining the international order.

“CEC calls those with a capacity to play their crucial role in immediately ending this aggression.”

Rev. Krieger was addressing the European Regional Pre-Assembly, held by CEC from 25 to 26 February, exploring the theme “Christ’s love moves the world to reconciliation and unity”. The virtual event, hosted together with the Polish Ecumenical Council, will enable European participants of the upcoming 11th Assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in Karlsruhe, to highlight the work and experiences of the European churches, exploring significant issues in the region.

“The Gospel of Jesus Christ carries a message of peace for all humankind together with deep respect for the dignity of every human being,” said Rev. Krieger. “This call is rooted in God's mercy, the forgiveness he offers to anyone who comes to him. We are required to be the artisans of peace and reconciliation.”

“We therefore strongly condemn the act of war the Russian armed forces have committed in Ukraine. This act violates the sanctity of borders, people’s right to determination and stability in the region.”

He went on to say that “CEC calls on everyone to join together in prayer for peace, for those struggling to end the conflict, and those who have been and will continue to be affected by it.”

The European Regional Pre-Assembly at its opening discussed the current situation in Ukraine, with sharing from representatives of the Institute of Ecumenical Studies at the Ukrainian Catholic University, World Communion of Reformed Churches and the Lutheran World Federation.

Read full text of CEC president’s message for the European Regional Pre-Assembly

For more information or an interview, please contact:

Naveen Qayyum
Communication Officer
Conference of European Churches
Rue Joseph II, 174 B-1000 Brussels
Tel. +32 486 75 82 36
E-mail: naveen@cec-kek.be
Website: www.ceceurope.org
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