Arch-Patriarch shares symbolic embrace with the Patriarch of HobraziaFollowing the election of a new anti-communist government in Hobrazia,
Arch-Patriarch Thomas Justus has begun a short three-day visit to the country. In the immediate aftermath of his arrival in the former Hobrazian capital of Astoria, the Arch-Patriarch met with Patriarch of Hobrazia Iakob VII for a symbolic meeting to demonstrate the two men's commitment to dialogue between the Patriarchal churches.
In addition to being the Archbishop of Astoria, the Patriarch of Hobrazia is the spiritual leader of the
Hobrazian Orthodox Church and a major figure within the
Apostolic Church of the East. The previous Hobrazian government, in line with a strict interpretation of socialist ideology, restricted the activities of the Hobrazian Church. Under the new leadership of the National Party though, the Church has experienced a strengthening of its position and Patriarch Iakob was present to bless the newly elected leader Goga Chavchavadze at his inauguration earlier this year.
During his meeting with the Hobrazian Patriarch, Arch-Patriarch Thomas Justus emphasised how situations of persecution demonstrate the need for unity and solidarity within the Hosian community, saying "From the previous Hobrazian government to the regime in neighbouring Malivia to the military administration in Selucia, dogmatic totalitarian governments do not care what denomination a Hosian is, they will attack Aurorian or Orthodox alike. In these situations we are reminded how great the ties that bind us together are compared to our differences."
In recent centuries the leadership of the Apostolic Church and the Aurorian Church have engaged in a gradual thawing of relations- despite the persistence of significant theological differences- in recognition of the changing position of the faith throughout the world. In spite of this the present visit by the Arch-Patriarch is the first of its kind for a significant period of time and the spirit of goodwill between the two leaders is unprecedented. As a sign of their firm commitment to ecumenical dialogue, the two men shared a symbolic embrace before retreating from the cameras to share a short prayer together.
Tomorrow the Arch-Patriarch will continue his visit by travelling to the Hobrazian capital of Muzal K’alak’i, where he will be received by the Hobrazian government before leading a public mass for the relatively small Aurorian population of the city. Throughout the remainder of his trip it is expected he will emphasise the need for reconciliation between individuals and groups, as well as the importance of peaceful coexistence between religious communities: both important themes of his archpatriarchate so far.