The importance and relevance of the ascetic tradition in the contemporary world. This was emphasised by the Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia, Kirill, and by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, in the messages they sent to the participants in the international ecumenical Meeting that began today at the Monastery of Bose. Kirill liked the topic that has been chosen this year, the “Spiritual fight”. “A topic – he writes – that is essential, of which one can never overestimate the importance, as it touches on the very essence of the life of whoever wants to follow Christ down to the end”. And he added: “When we see that in the contemporary world black is passed off as white, lies are dressed up as truths, and what has been considered to be a sin all through human history is no longer viewed as such, then we understand that the very foundations of the moral and spiritual health of society are threatened”. Appreciation for the meeting and the chosen subject has also been expressed by Patriarch Bartholomew: “These conferences – the message reads – have enriched the academic and ecumenical arena over the years, insofar as they bring together from all over the world some of the most outstanding thinkers, theologians and ecclesial delegates. In addition, they are meaningful evidence of the unique contribution given by monasticism to the ecumenical relations between the different Christian confessions”.

© SIR - sept 9 2009