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80 Years of Bossey: ‘The Heart of Ecumenism’ by Ulrich Matthei

September 2, 2026 · 1 min read

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Wed, 09/02/2026 - 19:10

This year, the Ecumenical Institute in Bossey celebrates its 80th anniversary. For me, this is a special cause for joy and a reason to give thanks, as I was able to study there for a semester 40 years ago.

To understand the ecumenical educational work carried out at Bossey, a description of the location is helpful: around 20 km from Geneva, on the road to Lausanne just before the small town of Nyon, lies the village of Céligny on Lake Geneva. Passing the vineyards, one reaches the Ecumenical Institute via a path through a cemetery. Its seclusion, tranquil setting and distinctive atmosphere have helped this ecumenical institute for further education and training to retain its unique character, even though the overall impression has changed in the meantime due to hotel accommodation, holiday lettings and private events.

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Photo: Ulrich Matthei

Background: As early as the 1930s, numerous international seminars on theology and ecumenism were held at the Faculty of Theology in Geneva.…

Source: World Council of Churches · Read the full story →

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Gabriela Gheorghiu

I enjoyed reading about the drive through the cemetery and the silence at Bossey. I think it's nice that the place has remained special even after lodging and private events have come along. What is your most vivid concrete memory from the semester you spent there 40 years ago?

Thomas Hall

I remember reading about that path through the cemetery years ago and thinking it must set the tone right from the start. Forty years is a long time, but the quiet and the view over the lake probably haven't changed much. What one class or conversation from your semester there stuck with you the most?