Orthodox Episcopal Conference of Italy and Malta discusseed pastoral challenges and interfaith dialogue

The Orthodox Episcopal Conference of Italy and Malta met in Florence on Friday, October 16, 2026, to discuss pastoral challenges, cooperation among Orthodox jurisdictions, and relations with Italian institutions and other religious communities.

The meeting took place at the Church of San Jacopo and was chaired by Metropolitan Polykarpos of Italy, who serves as President of the Conference.

Participants included Metropolitan Andrej of Switzerland, Italy and Malta of the Serbian Orthodox Church; Bishop Simeon of Domodedovo, representing Metropolitan Jean of Dubna of the Archdiocese of Paris; and Auxiliary Bishops Georgios of Krateia, Dionysios of Kotyaeion and Athenagoras of Thermai of the Orthodox Archdiocese of Italy.

Following the opening prayer, Metropolitan Polykarpos introduced the agenda, which focused on issues affecting Orthodox communities in Italy.

Discussions addressed common pastoral challenges, relations with Italian society and state institutions, and opportunities for closer cooperation among the country’s canonical Orthodox jurisdictions, while respecting their respective ecclesiastical traditions and responsibilities.

Particular attention was given to…