Zoghby Initiative - 1975 Declaration

1975 Declaration

In 1975, Zoghby first suggested that the Melkite Catholic Church might enter communion with the Orthodox churches without ceasing to be in communion with Rome. After consideration, the Melkite Synod effectively shelved the proposal. The proposition, while admired, was considered too radical by the Melkite Catholic synod, whose members wished to proceed by more cautious dialogue, coupled with practical collaboration in community activities and pastoral work, prior to formal reunification. The idea then remained stalled during the chaos of the Lebanese Civil War, not to re-emerge among the Melkite Synod for another 20 years.