Though in our concern for the reunion of Christendom we have in our minds the reunion
of all churches, from the point of view of closer affinity in faith and spiritual kinship with
us we need to develop different approaches in our relationship with them. This consideration
leads us to take up the question of our relation with the Eastern Orthodox Churches
as a first step. We shared the same faith and communion until the Council of Chalcedon
in 451, and then the division took place.
Concerning the Christological controversy which caused the division, we hope that common
studies in a spirit of mutual understanding of each other's positions. So we have decided
that we should institute formally a fresh study of the Christological doctrine in its historical
setting to be undertaken by our scholars, taking into account the earlier studies on this
subject as well as the informal consultations held in connection with the meetings of the
World Council of Churches. Meanwhile we express our agreement that our churches should
seek a closer relationship and cooperate with the Eastern Orthodox Churches in practical
affairs.
Extracts from the official statement of the Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches
held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 7-14 January 1965.
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