The Middle East Council of Churches: Identity and Regional Role
An Online Intellectual-Dialogue Seminar with the MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs
At the invitation of the Global Center for Sufism and Spiritual Studies, in cooperation with the Central Kasnazani Cultural Council, and organized by the Knowledge and Empowerment Club, an online intellectual-dialogue seminar was held with the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Michel Abs, entitled "The Middle East Council of Churches: Identity and Regional Role." The seminar took place on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
The seminar which was moderated by Dr. Hassan El Khatib, and attended by an MECC delegation that included the Coordinator of Dialogue, Social Cohesion, and Human Dignity Programs Professor Laure Abi Khalil, and the Coordinator of Church Relations and Media Journalist Lea Adel Maamary. Attendees were also experts, researchers, and interested people in the topic.
During the seminar, Secretary General Professor Michel Abs presented a detailed explanation about the history and mission of the Middle East Council of Churches, particularly how it works to achieve its desired Ecumenical and humanitarian goals. He spoke about the Council's role in building bridges between the various components of society, promoting dialogue among Churches locally, regionally, and internationally, and consolidating the spirit of communion and Ecumenical awareness.
Professor Abs also addressed the topic of studies and research aimed at fostering interfaith and inter-religious connections, as well as activating the Christian presence in the region and developing the role of Christians in their societies and countries. In this context, he emphasized the importance of developing interfaith dialogue, which contributes to discovering shared values and mutual understanding, thereby strengthening and consolidating the spirit of citizenship and full partnership within the nation.
Moreover, Secretary General Professor Michel Abs highlighted the humanitarian role of the Middle East Council of Churches through cooperation and joint work in the service of humanity and society in an impartial manner, in accordance with humanitarian and Christian principles, and striving to achieve justice, defend human rights, and preserve human dignity.
Furthermore, the seminar included an overview about the Middle East Council of Churches' programs implemented in the countries of the region through its various departments and offices across Theological, Ecumenical, humanitarian, social, and media spheres.