On Tuesday, representatives of Orthodox Churches to the European Union, alongside other religious communities, met with newly elected members of the European Parliament to emphasize the need for continued and strengthened dialogue between EU institutions and faith communities.
The meeting, titled “Article 17 TFEU Dialogue – The importance of intergenerational dialogue in addressing Europe’s future challenges,“ saw significant participation from members of the European Parliament and EU officials.
Hosted by EU Leadership
The event was hosted by Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament, and focused on implementing Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. This article ensures the recognition of the role of Churches, associations, and religious communities in European society.
The Role of Faith in Society
Father George Vâlcu, Secretary-General of the Committee of Representatives of the Orthodox Churches to the European Union (CROCEU), delivered a noteworthy address during the meeting.
“Faith is most of the time inherited by the younger from the older generation and less frequently acquired as a result of exposure to a discoursive theoretical description of a set of convictions,” he said.
Fr. Vâlcu explained that this “inheritance” of faith transcends a mere collection of ideas or principles. Instead, it is a way of life, a coherent philosophy that influences every gesture, decision, and relationship.
“This inheritance consists of much more than ideas. It is rather an ethos—a certain and very coherent manner of living one’s life relating to each and every aspect of it. And this inheritance can only be handed over via a very close, consistent, personal relation,” he emphasized.
He urged participants to pay greater attention to this deeply personal and relational level when addressing the challenges or failures of intergenerational interactions.
Today’s seminar on #interreligious dialogue reminds us of the importance of #intergenerational exchange. Listening, engaging and working together between generations is the key to shaping the #Europe we want to build for tomorrow pic.twitter.com/DxHGFLlZ8C
— Antonella Sberna (@AntonellaSberna) December 10, 2024
Article 17 and Its Significance
Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union outlines the rights of Churches, associations, and religious communities within EU member states. It acknowledges their significant role in society’s social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.
The event highlighted the value of intergenerational dialogue and the integral role of faith communities in shaping a more cohesive and resilient Europe.
Photo: European Parliament
