ST. NERSĒS THE GRACIOUS AND CHURCH UNITY

ST. NERSĒS THE GRACIOUS AND CHURCH UNITY – A New book in English by His Holiness Aram I

Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia

Because of its unique political, cultural and ethnic environment, the Cilician period of Armenian history presented the Armenian people with new horizons, perspectives, opportunities and concerns. The impact of this pluralist environment can be clearly seen in almost all aspects and spheres of Armenian life, including the Armenian Church. Church unity became one of the core issues and challenges facing the Armenian Church. The efforts towards unity (1165-1173) conducted by Catholicos Saint Nerses the Gracious, the Ecumenical Patriarch Michael and Byzantine Emperor Manuel are of critical importance within the broader context of the history of the church in the East.

In this book, which was written as a dissertation for the degree of S.T.M. in 1974, His Holiness Aram I spells out the complex nature of church unity in its theological, ecclesiological, political  and ecumenical implications. Hence, this study may significantly help the modern ecumenical movement in its continuous striving for visible unity. Further, it could open a new dimension in the context of bilateral theological dialogue among the Oriental Orthodox and Eastern  Orthodox   Churches.
 
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, is an internationally known spiritual leader and ecumenical figure. He served for two terms (1991-2005) as Moderator of the World Council of Churches. Since 2006 he has been a honorary president of the World Religions for Peace and a president of the Middle East Council of Churches.

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