MECC
A Christmas Gathering for the MECC Team in Beirut
Launching of the Documentary "Presence and Witness" On the Occasion of the Fiftieth Year of the MECC Founding
In preparation for the Glorious Christmas, the team of the General Secretariat of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), headed by the Secretary General Professor Dr. Michel Abs, met in a Christmas gathering full hope, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the offices of the MECC General Secretariat in Beirut, with the online participation of colleagues in the MECC Office in Syria.
The gathering began with a time for Prayer that included hymns, meditations and Christmas readings, which were culminated with a reading from the Gospel of John 1: 1-18, followed by a spiritual word delivered by the Director of the MECC Theological and Ecumenical Department Father Dr. Antoine Al Ahmar.
In his turn, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Dr. Michel Abs addressed the team with a heartfelt word, wishing them continued health, success and prosperity for the good of the Church and society. He also stressed the need to hold on to hope and faith, preparing to welcome Jesus Christ, the God of Justice and the King of Peace.
MECC Contributes in Empowering Men in Lebanon and Developing their Capabilities
In light of the difficult living circumstances that Lebanon is passing through as a result of the security, economic, social and health crises that have cast their shadows on the country, men have become one of the most social groups that face daily pressures and challenges that hinder their usual activities. Hence, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), Diakonia and Social Service Department, Lebanon’s Office, implemented eight empowerment sessions for a group of men in order to support them and alleviate the despair surrounding them.
The sessions come at a time when many men have lost their source of livelihood. Therefore, they aimed to develop the participants’ capabilities and train them in new manual skills teaching them how by using a rope they can create products that can be used in day-to-day applications.
The Governorate of Akkar Hosts a Training Session Organized by the Middle East Council of Churches
Entitled “Disaster Risk Management and Churches Response”
The Middle East Council of Churches held a training session in the Governorate of Akkar, entitled “Disaster Risk Management and Churches Response,” with support from Tearfund.
The session took place in the hall of Our Lady of Salvation Melkite Greek Catholic Church in the town of Sheikh Mohammad – Akkar, and was attended by more than fifty participants from various Churches and professional backgrounds.
The meeting began with a Prayer prepared by Father Spiridon Tannous, titled “The Church of Antioch’s Response to the Famine in Jerusalem.” After this, the participating youth introduced themselves and became acquainted.
Subsequently, Father Spiridon divided the youth into groups and organized training workshops, which generated significant interest among the attendees.
Later, Father Basilios Ghafari and the Journalist Lea Maamary gave lectures on different types of disasters, their impact on individuals and society, and the importance of local churches taking action to respond to crises by forming and effectively organizing emergency committees.
Youth Leadership Building in Lebanon
Ecumenical Youth Empowerment in a New Leadership Training: Together for a Better World!
In continuation of the Ecumenical Youth Camp “Youth Leadership Building" in Lebanon, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) implemented a new training within this program, stemming from its belief in the importance of empowering youth and developing their capabilities. It was held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Moore Conference Center & Guesthouse in Mansourieh - Lebanon. Noting that the program was organized in partnership with Kerk in Actie (KIA) organization, Bible Society, Youth for Christ (YFC), and Ithraa Center in Lebanon.
Attendees were 36 youth and 11 leaders from different Church Families, who participated in the previous Ecumenical camp. The course comes at a time when young people face many challenges that may often hinder their usual activities. Therefore, this meeting aimed to develop the skills of the participants, motivate them to serve, and train them on the foundations of leadership, thus contributing to the formation of youth networks capable of making positive change in societies.
The course included various games that brought the participants closer together, as well as dynamic sessions that focused on leadership skills, as well as how to deal with crises and ways to work together to build a brighter future in peace.
MECC Organizes a New Course About Disaster Risk Management and Churches Response
His Eminence Bishop Michel Kassarji: It is necessary to enhance cooperation, solidarity and God-reliance
With the blessing and presence of His Eminence Bishop Michel Kassarji, Head of the Chaldean Community in Lebanon, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), Diakonia and Social Service Department – Lebanon’s Office, in partnership with TearFund organization, held a new training course within the program "Disaster Risk Management and Churches Response", on Saturday, December 7, 2024, hosted by the Chaldean Archdiocese of Beirut, Hazmieh - Lebanon.
The training was held in the presence of Monsignor Raphael Traboulsi, the General Vicar of the Chaldean Diocese of Beirut, and Father Khoren, Priest of the Armenian Orthodox Cathedral Church in Zkak el-Blat, Beirut, and the participation of an Ecumenical group including 120 participants of clergy, consecrated men and women, lay people, scouts and workers in the Church field from the Chaldean Diocese of Beirut, the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut, and the Armenian Orthodox Archdiocese of Lebanon.
The training aimed to empower the participants and develop their capacities on the topic at hand in order to support them and provide them with the basic skills that will help them train workers in their Parishes. Thus, it will enable them to help the Church in supporting the neediest and most affected people by the crises and difficult living conditions, on various humanitarian, social, health and psychological levels.
Churches in the Mediterranean: Addressing Desertification Through Responsible Banking
A Webinar Organized by the WCC
MECC Highlights the Church’s Response in the Region to the Environmental Crises
In a world burdened by environmental disasters that have cast their shadows on the planet, the World Council of Churches (WCC) held an international webinar entitled “Churches in the Mediterranean: Addressing Desertification Through Responsible Banking,” in order to raise awareness about the various environmental issues that threaten human life.
The webinar, which was held on Monday, December 9, 2024, featured speakers from Member Churches in the region, experts from the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) represented by Deacon Garen Yosolkanian, the Coordinator of the MECC Eco-Justice Unit, the Conference of European Churches (CEC), and All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), as well as Dr. Mercedes Caron, Scientific Researcher at the European Forest Institute.
Attendees were also specialists and concerned participants from various countries around the world. The sessions focused on the issue of desertification in the Mediterranean region, its causes and repercussions, in addition to ways to confront it and reduce its negative effects. In this context, the speakers presented various facts and data about this worsening issue due to the ongoing increase of CO2 emissions, and how Churches respond to this problem.
Video - The MECC Secretary General Professor Dr. Michel Abs Highlights Via "ME Sat" the MECC Statement
In Light of the Circumstances Taking Place in the North of the Syrian Arab Republic, Especially in the City of Aleppo
The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Dr. Michel Abs was a guest within the “Good Evening” program on the “ME Sat” Egyptian TV Channel to talk about the statement issued by MECC in light of the circumstances taking place in the North of the Syrian Arab Republic, especially in the city of Aleppo.
MECC Supports 72 Small Projects in Latakia and Tartus
Through its Service and Relief Department, Diakonia, the Middle East Council of Churches continues its efforts to strengthen social and economic stability within local communities. The goal is to provide individuals with the necessary support to improve their living standards in response to current economic challenges.
Operating through its office in Syria, the Diakonia Department has supported many small projects in the Latakia and Tartus governorates via the Livelihood Support Program. This initiative aims to empower project owners and equip them with essential tools for success and sustainability.
A total of 72 projects were supported, spanning various fields. These included a greenhouse, a motorcycle repair workshop, an event decoration center, a mosaic art workshop, a car wash, a candle-making workshop, a local restaurant, and dairy and cheese production. Additionally, there were other small projects addressing local community needs and providing a source of income for their owners.
The Middle East Council of Churches and Télé Lumière Launch "The Platform of the Word"
Secretary General Professor Dr. Michel Abs: "Through the documents we intend to produce, we will address—from an Ecumenical Christian perspective—all phenomena that concern modern humans”
Under the slogan "The Word Became Flesh," and on the occasion of its fiftieth anniversary, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), in partnership with Télé Lumière and Noursat TV station, launched a new Media Production Center titled "The Platform of the Word." The official ceremony was held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the platform's headquarters in the offices of the General Secretariat of the Middle East Council of Churches in Beirut, in the presence of Secretary General Professor Dr. Michel Abs.
Participants in the celebration included:
Dr. Marie-Thérèse Kreidy, Director of Programs at Télé Lumière and Noursat, representing the station
Ms. Marutzella Abboud, representing the Near East School of Theology (NEST)
Journalist Lea Adel Maamary, Responsible of the Platform and Coordinator of the Church and Media Relations at the Council
Dr. Laure Abi Khalil, Coordinator of the Social Capital Rehabilitation Project at the Council
The team of the General Secretariat from various departments
Opening of Télé Lumière-Noursat Office in the North and Appointment of Journalist Lea Maamary as Director
Christian and Islamic Spiritual Leaders Emphasized the Role of Télé Lumière and Praised the Opening of the Office
Professor Michel Abs: "It is a step of love and creativity for the good of the Word"
Because the Word is stronger than wars, and because love is stronger than hostility, Télé Lumière-Noursat has opened an office in the North, specifically in the Al-Zahiriyah area of Tripoli, to be the resounding voice of truth and to build bridges of love and connection amidst crises and wars.
Participants in the inauguration included:
His Eminence Archbishop Youssef Soueif, Maronite Archbishop of Tripoli
His Eminence Bishop Edouard Georges Daher, Metropolitan of Tripoli, Koura, and all the North for the Melkite Greek Catholics
His Eminence Bishop Ephraim Kyriakos, Metropolitan of Tripoli, Koura, and their dependencies for the Greek Orthodox, represented by Reverend Father Ibrahim Sarouji
His Eminence Metropolitan Basilios Mansour, Shepherd of the Archdiocese of Akkar and its Dependencies for the Greek Orthodox, represented by Reverend Father Gabriel Yakoumi
His Eminence the Mufti of Tripoli and the North, Sheikh Mohammed Tarek Imam, represented by Mr. Mohammed Hassoun
His Eminence Sheikh Ali Kaddour, President of the Alawite Islamic Council, represented by His Eminence Sheikh Mohammed Abdul Karim, Member of the Sharia Committee in the Alawite Islamic Council
Reverend Dr. Hadi Ghantous, President of the Evangelical Church in the North
Father Quirico Calella, Head of the Franciscan Fathers' Monastery in Al-Mina, Tripoli
Father Krikor Yaghiaian, Representative of His Eminence Bishop Shahe Panossian in the North
Esteemed Professor Michel Abs, Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)
Journalist Lea Adel Maamary, Director of the Télé Lumière-Noursat Office in the North
Professor Laure Abi Khalil, Coordinator of the Social Capital Rehabilitation Project at the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)
Father Jean Moura, General Chaplain of Prisons in Lebanon, represented by Journalist Joseph Mahfoud, Head of the Central Media Committee in Lebanon
Mr. Amin Kamil Brer, Coordinator of Tripoli and the North at the Association of the Security and Religion Council
Ms. Nancy Najjar from the Antiochian Orthodox Media Center
A group of Priests, Pastors, dignitaries, and media professionals were also in attendance.
After the national anthem and a Blessing Prayer by the Christian and Islamic Spiritual Leaders, the master of ceremonies, Ms. Noha Maamary, delivered a speech highlighting the importance of the occasion, summarizing her words with the Gospel verse: "Go and make disciples of all nations."
From Wounds in Our Countries to the Resurrection of Those Suffering from Wars and Disasters
A Message of Love From the Middle East to the World
You may find below the text of the documentary film entitled “From Wounds in Our Countries to the Resurrection of Those Suffering from Wars and Disasters.” It was presented during the Fourth General Assembly of the ACT Alliance, held under the title “Hope in Action, Together for Justice,” between October 28 and November 1, 2024, in the Yogyakarta region - Indonesia.
The video was produced by the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC).
From Wounds in Our Countries to the Resurrection of Those Suffering from Wars and Disasters
We came to you from the oldest inhabited capitals and from the soil that witnessed the birth of the earliest human civilizations.
We came to you from the land of heavenly messages, the home of the first two prophets, from the land where our Savior Jesus Christ was born, preached, suffered, was entombed, and rose on the third day.
We came to you from the land of the first churches founded by the holy apostles, and from the dust of the land that was watered with the blood of martyrs in defense of their faith.
We have come to you from the land whose bells are still ringing in every Mass to tell the whole world that we are still here, rooted in our land and steadfast in our untainted faith inherited from our ancestors…
Video – The MECC Secretary General Dr. Michel Abs Talks Via the Egyptian ME Sat TV Channel About the Health Condition of Father Gregorios Salloum
The Greek Orthodox Parish Priest of Ibl Al Saqi in Lebanon
The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Dr. Michel Abs, was a guest on the Egyptian ME Sat TV Channel, to talk about the health condition of Father Gregorios Salloum, the Greek Orthodox Parish Priest of Ibl Al Saqi in Lebanon, after he was injured as a result of a raid that targeted his town. Dr. Abs also highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian circumstances in Lebanon and the relief work of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC).
An Ecumenical Camp for Youth Leadership Building
Developing Youth Skills Towards Healthy Societies
They are the backbone of societies and an essential part for building a brighter future. They are also a source of vitality, health and well-being... They are the youth, carrying many energies and creativity with which they may benefit their communities and societies. However, young people today, in light of all the development that the world is witnessing amidst a wave of conflicts, are exposed to many challenges and difficulties that may limit their usual activity. Therefore, it has become necessary to care for them, educate them, develop their abilities, and protect them from all the pressures that surround them.
Hence, and in the context of supporting the youth, a new program was launched entitled “Youth Leadership Building”, which is a joint project organized by the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) in partnership with Kerk in Actie (KIA) organization, Bible Society, Youth for Christ (YFC), and Ithraa Center in Lebanon. The program aims to develop youth skills, motivate them to serve, and train them on the foundations of leadership. It also contributes to the formation of youth networks capable of making positive change in their communities.
The Middle East Council of Churches Participates in the Reception of the Incorrupt Body of the Cardinal Patriarch Krikor-Bedros XV Aghajanian in Beirut
On the occasion of the reception of the incorrupt body of the Servant of God Cardinal Patriarch Krikor-Bedros XV Aghajanian, the Armenian Catholic Patriarchate of Cilicia, held a national and official celebration on Thursday, September 12, 2024, in the Martyrs’ Square in Downtown Beirut, with the blessings and presence of His Beatitude Patriarch Raphaël Bedros XXI Minassian, Catholicos Patriarch of the Armenian Catholic Church of Cilicia, and President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) for the Catholic Family.
The celebration was attended by Lebanon's Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, His Beatitude Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, Maronite Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, His Beatitude Patriarch Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Syriac Catholic Patriarch of Antioch, and Honorary President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), His Beatitude Patriarch Joseph Al-Absi, Greek Melkite Catholic Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, and Honorary President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East and Supreme Head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, and Honorary President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), Reverend Dr. Paul Haidostian, President of the UAECNE, President of Haigazian University in Lebanon and President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) for the Evangelical Family, Their Eminences Bishops, Heads of Sects, and clergy, as well as official, political, religious, cultural and social figures, and believers from various Churches and sects.
As well as, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Dr. Michel Abs participated at the head of a delegation that included the Member of the MECC Executive Committee Lawyer Mr. Ibrahim Traboulsi, the MECC Associate Secretary General Mrs. Seta Hadeshian, the Director of the MECC Theological and Ecumenical Father Dr. Antoine Al Ahmar, and the MECC Media and Communication Officer Elia Nasrallah.
The Middle East Council of Churches Participates in the General Assembly of the “Danmission” Organization in Denmark
The Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), represented by Father Dr. Antoine Al Ahmar, the Director of the Theological and Ecumenical Department, participated in the General Assembly of the “Danmission” organization held in the Danish city of Nyborg, between 31 August and 1 September 2024.
The first meeting was with the “Danmission” Board, in the presence of the new Secretary General of the organization Mrs. Julie Koch, and the participation of representatives of the organizations invited to the General Assembly, including Reverend Dr. Andrea Zaki, President of the Evangelical Churches in Egypt and the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services, and Dr. Nayla Tabbara, Director of Adyan Foundation.
The General Assembly included a special session entitled “Tour of the World,” during which each of “Danmission’s” partners gave a presentation about the organizations and regions they represent, accompanied by the regional Directors of these regions. During this session, the part dedicated to the Middle East region was moderated by Mrs. Kristen Auken, the Director of the region in “Danmission”, where she highlighted the circumstances that the Middle East is passing through.
In his turn, Father Dr. Antoine Al Ahmar spoke about the history of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), its structure, goals, and the activities it implements, in addition to the experience of cooperation with “Danmission” and the aspirations for future joint work. He also talked about the situation of the Church in the region and the challenges it faces, especially in responding to the crises taking place in the Middle East.
The Middle East Council of Churches Felicitates the Colleague Sub-Deacon Chady Chata On His Move to Rome to Continue His Ecumenical Studies
After a two-year journey in the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), our colleague Sub-Deacon Chady Chata, the Social Media Officer, leaves the Council, carrying in his heart a lot of hope and moving to a new Ecumenical phase, where he will continue his Ecumenical studies at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas – Angelicum, in Rome.
The family of the MECC General Secretariat felicitates Chady on the occasion of embarking on this path full of love, joy and humanity, as it bids farewell to a colleague who was known for his service, dedication, and zeal for the Council’s mission, as well as his kindness and support for all colleagues, partners and friends.
In this context, the MECC General Secretariat team held a farewell gathering for Chady, on Tuesday 10 September 2024, at the General Secretariat Offices in Beirut, where the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches Dr. Michel thanked him for his efforts and dedication, praising his hard work and continuous diligence, and stressing his competence and the progress he has achieved in the Council and the Ecumenical world. He also wished him success in his new step.
Secretary General attends Vespers at the Holy Monastery of Pendeli in Greece
During his stay at the Holy Monastery of Pendeli - Inter-Orthodox Center, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches, Dr. Michel Abs, attended Vespers, presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Ioannis of Thermopylae, Director of the Center, in the monastery church.
It is worth mentioning that His Eminence gave lectures at the John of Damascus Institute of Theology in the Antiochian See and still holds beautiful impressions of this period.
The Inter-Orthodox Center of the Church of Greece (www.intero.gr) is a conference, seminar and spiritual retreat center located in an easily accessible area and provides various services for various spiritual activities for those who visit it.
Secretary-General's Television Interview with the Archbishop's Aparchi TV Station
As part of his visit to the residence of His Beatitude the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, the Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches, Dr. Michel Abs, met with the team of the Archbishop's Aparchi TV Station. He gave a lengthy interview in which he spoke about the ecumenical movement, the Council—its identity, programs, and aspirations—as well as the Council's relationship with the churches and the role of church councils in uniting churches at both regional and international levels.
In this context, the Secretary-General refuted many preconceptions about the churches and the ecumenical movement, unequivocally explaining their positive role and respect for the specificity, independence, identity, history, and heritage of the member churches.
The recording is currently being edited and will be published at a later date.
The Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches Meets with the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece
The Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches, Dr. Michel Abs, paid a visit to His Beatitude Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens and All Greece at his headquarters in Athens. He met with him in the presence of Father Emmanuel, Secretary to His Beatitude.
At the outset, the Secretary-General conveyed the greetings of His Beatitude Patriarch John X, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, to the Archbishop. His Beatitude reciprocated the greetings.
After that, the Secretary-General gave a detailed presentation on the Middle East Council of Churches, its structure, and activities to further acquaint His Beatitude with the Council. His Beatitude offered comments and praise.
The MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs Participates in the Worship Service at the Evangelical Church in Rawd El Faraj - Shubra - Egypt
Cairo, September 15, 2024
As part of his visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Michel Abs participated in the Worship Prayer Service held by Reverend Refaat Fikry, the MECC Associate Secretary General for the Evangelical Family, in the Evangelical Church - Rawd El Faraj - Shubra - Egypt, in the presence of the MECC Coordinator of Church and Media Relations Journalist Lea Adel Maamary, Mrs. Rania Morris, John Refaat and believers.
The Prayer Service included songs and praises to the Lord, which confirmed through their content that the Lord Christ is the source of our light and joy.
In his Sermon, Reverend Refaat Fikry talked about promoting the virtue of love and devoting the concept of forgiveness, supporting others, and standing by them regardless of the circumstances.
Then, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Michel Abs talked about the Council: its establishment, goals and programs. He also spoke about his visit to Egypt and his participation in the celebration of the Fiftieth Year of the MECC Founding.