In the serene mountain setting of Sambata de Sus Monastery, near Sibiu, Romania, a significant ecumenical and inter-monastic gathering took place from July 3 to 9. Organized by the Orthodox Archdiocese of Sibiu, the event brought together young disciples from various nations and representatives of monastic communities from across Europe.
The theme “Blessed are the peacemakers” aimed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding among different Christian traditions and monastic orders.
A Diverse and Spiritual Gathering
Approximately 40 representatives from multiple monastic communities across Europe joined the gathering, emphasizing the importance of spiritual leadership in promoting peace.
The meeting was presided over by Greek Metropolitan Athenagoras of Belgium, Exarch of the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Romanian monastic communities were represented by Metropolitan Serafim of Germany, Central and Northern Europe.
We cannot allow the war to continue
According to a statement to Basilica.ro, Metropolitan Athenagoras referred to the necessity of having discussions about peace, especially in the context of the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
“As Christians, we cannot allow the war to continue. After all, are we not called to be true peacemakers? Peace is not an empty word,” stated Metropolitan Athenagoras during the opening ceremony.
“Metropolitan Athenagoras also said that ‘after 27 years, we are again in Romania, this magnificent and hospitable country, rich in spiritual experience in Christ and full of remarkable witnesses, saints, bishops, priests, monks, nuns, and of course, lay people,’ he added.
The Jesus Prayer brings the peace of heart
During the communication sessions, Metropolitan Serafim of Germany, Central and Northern Europe, noted that the hesychast tradition emphasizes interiorization so that every prayer becomes a prayer of the heart. Without the “Jesus Prayer,” we cannot attain peace of heart.
Various specialists and representatives from numerous monastic centres also spoke, including Dom Jean Geysens from the Benedictine monastery of Chevetogne in Belgium, Bela Visky, a Protestant pastor and theology professor in Cluj, Brother Guillaume from the Taizé Community in France, Pastor Jean-Philippe Calame, chaplain of the Grandchamp Community in Switzerland, and others.
Dialogue and Monastic Wisdom
The program was designed to encourage open peacebuilding discussions, drawing on lay and monastic perspectives.
Participants engaged in meaningful conversations about how faith communities and monastic orders can collaborate to gain peace of heart.
Monastic leaders shared their experiences and insights on cultivating inner peace and extending it to the broader community, highlighting the role of prayer and contemplation in fostering a peaceful world.
A Commitment to Continued Collaboration
The gathering concluded with all participants committing to continuing their efforts to promote peace and unity in their respective countries. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds and pledged to carry the lessons learned back to their communities.
As the event came to a close, participants left with renewed hope and determination to be ambassadors of peace and unity in an increasingly divided world. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the potential for faith to bridge divides and build a more harmonious global community guided by the wisdom and leadership of monastic traditions.
Photo: Metropolis of Benelux
