Throughout their shared history, Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches have lived through a very complex and sometimes tense relationship – not only theologically, but also politically. In most cases such relationships remain to this day; indeed, in some cases the tension has increased. In July 2019, scholars of both traditions gathered in Stuttgart, Germany, for an unprecedented conference devoted to exploring and overcoming the division between these churches. This book, the first in a two-volume set of the essays presented at the conference, explores historical and theological themes with the goal of healing memories and inspiring a direct dialogue between Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches. Like the conference, the volume brings together representatives of these Churches, as well as theologians from different geographical contexts where tensions are the greatest. The published essays represent the great achievements of the conference: willingness to engage in dialogue, general openness to new ideas, and opportunities to address difficult questions and heal inherited wounds.

“This is an excellent set of essays which result from a unique and pioneering project on the relations between Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches. The two volumes bring together historical developments, canonical and missiological aspects, theological, ecclesiological and ecumenical perspectives as well as individual theological contributions on Eastern Catholic–Orthodox relations. Two most timely and welcome publications. It is my hope that this research promotes not only historical and theological, but also emotional healing and reconciliation by fostering new ways of discernment and dialogue.” (Miriam Haar, Program Officer for Anglicanism and Worldwide Ecumenism, Institute for Ecumenical Studies and Research, Bensheim, Germany)