Unity

Inspired by our church's account of Josyf Cardinal Slipyj's efforts to bring Ukrainian Catholics and Ukrainian Orthodox together, we seek conversation, shared learning, and friendship across divided communities. We recognize that lasting ecclesial communion depends on the churches involved and cannot be declared by one community alone.

John Paul II spoke of the Church breathing with “two lungs,” East and West, and called Christians to ecumenical dialogue in Ut Unum Sint. His words encourage us to learn the treasures of both traditions and to approach their differences with honesty and humility.

One of our bishops is married. His experience as a husband, father, and pastor may contribute to conversations about family life and Christian ministry. We offer that perspective for respectful dialogue, mindful that Catholic and Orthodox churches maintain their own episcopal disciplines. Our hope is to serve the work of unity through prayer, pastoral care, and patient relationships.