Greek Orthodox, Catholic leaders pledge mutual pursuit of unity

Published: 2007-07-05

SAN FRANCISCO (CNS) -- Leaders of San Francisco's Catholic and Greek Orthodox communities urged their traditions to continue pursuing mutual understanding and unity, during an ecumenical "litany for peace." Greek Orthodox Metropolitan Gerasimos and Catholic Archbishop George H. Niederauer capped an evening of sacred music and readings featuring themes of peace and reconciliation June 28 at St. Dominic Parish in San Francisco by lighting in unison the final candle of a candelabra which had served as a symbol of growing unity during the evening. Between choral offerings, two pairs of youngsters -- one Greek Orthodox, one Catholic -- had walked to the altar area and each lit a candle on either side of the candelabra. Titled "Litany for Peace: An Ecumenical Evening of Sacred Readings and Music," the program featured three choral ensembles -- the Solemn Choir of St. Dominic Church and the choirs of San Francisco's Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

Copyright (c) 2007 Catholic News Service /U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service .