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11 April 2025
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POLISH EU PRESIDENCY | European Churches meet with Minister for EU Affairs Adam Szłapka
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7 April - A delegation from COMECE and CEC met with H.E. Mr Adam Szłapka, Polish Minister for European Union Affairs, in Warsaw. The meeting took place in the context of Poland’s ongoing Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
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The delegation shared a joint reflection highlighting Churches’ views on the main policy priorities of the Polish EU Presidency. The discussion focused on promoting a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and a new European security architecture, as well as on ensuring fair migration and asylum policies and a credible, citizen-centred and merit-based EU enlargement process.
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The delegation reaffirmed Churches’ commitment to the European project, underlining the need to strengthen internal unity and solidarity within and outside of Europe’s borders. In the face of global and regional instability, COMECE and CEC highlighted the need to pursue value-based policies rooted in human dignity, justice and mutual respect. Read the Press Release | Download COMECE-CEC Joint Contribution | Photo Gallery
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VIDEO | Debate “Europe, Church, Ecumenism in times of turmoil”
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6 April - The full video recording of the debate “Europe, Church, Ecumenism in Times of Turmoil” is now available on YouTube. The conference took place on Sunday, 7 April 2025, in the context of the COMECE-CEC delegation’s meeting with Poland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. COMECE was represented by its General Secretary, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto.
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NEWS | Ecumenical service at the Holy Trinity Evangelical-Augsburg Parish in Warsaw
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6 April - In the context of the COMECE-CEC delegation meeting with the Polish EU Presidency, an ecumenical service was held at the Holy Trinity Evangelical-Augsburg Parish in Warsaw. The President of COMECE, Mgr Mariano Crociata, highlighted the importance of joint ecumenical efforts in addressing the many challenges Europe is currently facing. “Economic, health, and climate crises are now accompanied by devastating wars and a broader crisis of values, whose effects are increasingly witnessing in Europe and across the world,” stated Mgr Crociata.
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INVITATION | Upcoming webinars: European Universities Alliances — An Opportunity for Catholic Universities? | 6 & 13 May 2025
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14 April - COMECE and IFCU invite you to join the upcoming conference “European Universities Alliances: An Opportunity for Catholic Universities?” – a two-part webinar series taking place on Tuesday, 6 May 2025, and Tuesday, 13 May 2025, from 11:30 to 12:30 (CEST). This event will explore the challenges and opportunities that the European Universities Initiative (EUI) presents for Catholic higher education institutions. Read the full invitation | Download the Concept Note | Download the Poster | Register now
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ASSEMBLY | EU bishops issue ‘Looking to Europe with Hope’ declaration during plenary Assembly in Rome
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28 March - The bishops of the European Union convened in Nemi (Italy) from 26 to 28 March 2025 for the spring Plenary Assembly of COMECE. Following a series of dialogue sessions with Vatican, EU and academic representatives, the bishops elaborated and issued the declaration “Looking to Europe with hope”. The bishops also sent a message to the Holy Father to convey its closeness to the Pope in this difficult moment of illness and its filial devotion.
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The Assembly featured contributions by:
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- H.E. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin,
- H.E. Mgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See
- President Paolo Gentiloni, former Prime Minister of Italy and former EU Commissioner
- Prof. Mario Monti, former Prime Minister of Italy and former EU Commissioner
- H.E. Martin Selmayr, the EU Ambassador to the Holy See
- H.E. Mgr. Giuseppe Baturi, General Secretary of the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CEI)
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The COMECE Assembly welcomed the Latin Church of Ukraine and the Greek-Catholic Church of Ukraine as observer members. The decision had been made in the previous months and was implemented in Nemi. These two Churches now join the Swiss Bishops’ Conference, the International Bishops’ Conference of St Cyril and Methodius, the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, and the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales as observer members of the Assembly.
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The proceedings of the COMECE Plenary Assembly alternated with various moments of prayer. In particular, on the occasion of the Jubilee, last Thursday the bishops made a pilgrimage to Rome, passing through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica and joining in prayer with Mgr. Paul Richard Gallagher at the Chapel of the Choir.
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ASSEMBLY | Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin addresses COMECE Assembly in Nemi
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26 March - H.E. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin addressed the Assembly of EU Bishops, highlighting the crises facing Europe and warning against nationalistic policies. The Cardinal urged political leaders to “set aside divisions and ideological barriers” in favour of dialogue. He emphasised Europe’s responsibility, rooted in its Christian tradition, to promote peace and solidarity. “Dialogue remains the only viable path,” he said, stressing the Church’s role in reconciliation.
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Cardinal Parolin also called for humane immigration policies and reminded that “concern for Europe’s wellbeing does not exempt us from thinking about the world’s good.” He praised COMECE’s role in dialogue with EU institutions and urged continued support from the Bishops’ Conferences. Read Card. Parolin's full speech [IT]
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ASSEMBLY | COMECE bishops received by Mgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See
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27 March - The bishops of COMECE were received in Vatican City by H.E. Mgr. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See. Together, they discussed the rising global tensions exacerbated by the erosion of multilateralism, as well as recent shifts in transatlantic relations. The exchange with Mgr. Gallagher also focused on the wars in Ukraine and the Holy Land, as well as the future of EU integration. In particular, the need to listen and dialogue among all EU Member States was emphasised as a way to foster unity and cohesion. Read the Press Release | Photo Gallery
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ASSEMBLY | Former Italian Prime Ministers and EU Commissioners Mario Monti and Paolo Gentiloni exchange with the bishops of the European Union
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27-28 March - The EU bishops engaged in a productive discussion with Professor Mario Monti, former Prime Minister of Italy (2011–2013) and European Commissioner for the Single Market and Competition (1995–2004). He offered valuable insights into current international political issues, including the future of transatlantic relations and the significant challenge of economic competitiveness. During his address, President Monti reflected on his past collaboration with COMECE and emphasised its vital role in promoting a Europe based on shared values. On the following day, President Paolo Gentiloni, former Prime Minister of Italy (2016–2018) and European Commissioner for the Economy (2019–2023), analysed topics such as European defence, the economic challenges facing Europe and the need for a “European awakening”. Read the Press Release | Photo Gallery
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ASSEMBLY | CEI General Secretary Mgr. Baturi addressed COMECE Assembly
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28 March - On the last day of the COMECE Assembly, the EU bishops received H.E. Mgr. Giuseppe Baturi, General Secretary of the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CEI). He outlined the history of the CEI as well as the most recent initiatives of the Conference, particularly on issues concerning the Mediterranean, young people and Europe. Read the Press Release | Photo Gallery
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ASSEMBLY | EU bishops send a message to the Holy Father conveying their closeness and filial devotion
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28 March - The Assembly of COMECE sent also a message to the Holy Father to convey its closeness to the Pope in this difficult moment of illness and its filial devotion. The message is as follows:
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“Holy Father, the COMECE Plenary Assembly convened in Italy, in Nemi, to discuss the current and future challenges facing the European Union. We have undertaken the Jubilee Pilgrimage and held you closely in our prayers with every step towards the Holy Door. We fervently pray for you, for your health, and for your full recovery, so that under your guidance, the Church in Europe and the world may live the Jubilee with hope, enthusiasm, joy and faith, and be revitalised by it. United with you in prayer, the Bishops of COMECE.” Download the message in EN and IT
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ASSEMBLY | EU Bishops make Jubilee Pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica
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3 February - The proceedings of the COMECE Plenary Assembly alternated with various moments of prayer. In particular, on the occasion of the Jubilee, the bishops made a pilgrimage to Rome, passing through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica and joining in prayer with Mgr. Paul Richard Gallagher at the Chapel of the Choir. Read the Press Release | Photo Gallery
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NEWS | COMECE participates in an event of the EPP Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue
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29 January - COMECE participated in a dinner event organised by the EPP Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue to build bridges and enhance cooperation with partners. The event was hosted by the new presidents of the Working Group, MEPs Željana Zovko and Vangelis Meimarakis. For COMECE the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss key topics, including the positive contribution of Churches to the EU policymaking process, the promotion of religious education, and the expertise that Churches—as key actors on the ground—can share with EU institutions. Other topics included the promotion of freedom of religion both within and beyond the EU. COMECE was represented by its General Secretary, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto. Photo Gallery
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INTERVIEW | Mgr. Hérouard on the war in Ukraine and its potential effects
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3 April - COMECE First Vice-President Mgr. Antoine Hérouard was interviewed by KTO on the works of the COMECE Spring Assembly, as well as on the war in Ukraine and on the potential risks posed by Russia's international posture. Listen the full interview (FR)
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NEWS | Focolare Movement delegation visits the Secretariat of COMECE and the EU institutions
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9 April - The Secretariat of COMECE welcomed a delegation from the Politics for Unity Movement (MPPU), an international network of politicians, citizens, diplomats and officials engaged at various levels, promoted by the Focolare Movement. Following their visit to the EU institutions in Brussels and several moments of dialogue with EU representatives, the delegation visited the Secretariat of COMECE, where they were received by COMECE's General Secretary, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto, and Adviser Emilio Dogliani. The meeting provided an opportunity to present the current state of dialogue between the EU and the Churches, as well as COMECE's recent activities in the field of youth. Photo Gallery
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VIDEO | "How can one talk to and reach out to Christian voters?"
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10 April - COMECE Adviser José Luis Bazán took part in a televised debate at the European Parliament, organised by the EPP Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue. The programme explored the question: "How can one talk to and reach out to Christian voters?" Participants included MEPs Željana Zovko and Hélder Sousa Silva, José Luis Bazán (COMECE), Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach (CEC), and Ramon Barba Castro (World Youth Alliance Europe). Watch the full video recording
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NEWS | COMECE warmly welcomes Archbishop Auza’s appointment as new Apostolic Nuncio to the EU
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22 March - COMECE warmly congratulated H.E. Mgr Bernardito Cleopas Auza on his appointment as Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union. Pope Francis appointed H.E. Mgr Bernardito Cleopas Auza, Archbishop of Suacia, as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union, succeeding the late Mgr Noël Treanor, who passed away in August 2024.
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Reacting to this news, COMECE President H.E. Mgr. Mariano Crociata, stated: “On behalf of COMECE, I warmly welcome this announcement with great joy. Archbishop Auza brings with him a remarkable legacy of diplomatic engagement and ecclesial service. For decades, he has played a pivotal role within the diplomatic service of the Holy See, demonstrating profound commitment and vision. I am confident that our collaboration will be both fruitful and impactful in advancing the common good in the European Union. I extend my heartfelt wishes for strength and wisdom in his mission. May God’s guidance be with him every step of the way.”
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NEWS | Screening of “Making Dust”, a documentary film for an insightful exploration of the loss of churches
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1 April - COMECE, together with the Chapel for Europe and the Future for Religious Heritage (FRH), organised the film screening of “Making Dust”, a documentary film for an insightful exploration of the loss of churches and their lasting impact on our communities. The event took place at the Chapel for Europe, Brussels, and was followed by a Q&A with film Director Fiona Hallinan and Prof. Ellen Rowley. The event also featured the presentation of the New European Bauhaus Lab on the renovation, transformation and renewal of church buildings and religious heritage in the EU. This initiative, proposed by COMECE and its partners to the European Commission, is set to officially launch with its opening workshop in autumn 2025. Further information on this initiative will be shared in the coming weeks. Photo Gallery
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NEWS | Delegation of Union of Catholic German Students Fraternities visits the COMECE Secretariat
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4 April - COMECE welcomed a delegation from the Union of Catholic German Student Fraternities for an exchange on COMECE’s mission of dialogue with the EU institutions, as well as our recent initiatives in the fields of ethics and education.
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DOCUMENT | COMECE assesses EC proposed ‘First Omnibus package’
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20 March - In view of the upcoming inter-institutional negotiations on the ‘First Omnibus package’ proposal published by the European Commission, COMECE presented its assessment and comments in a document issued on Thursday, 20 March 2025, emphasising that the proposed amendments should not distort or neutralise the EU’s landmark sustainability laws. Read the Press Release | Download Document
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VIDEO | Discussing the Human Fraternity document signed by Pope Francis and Imam Ahmad al-Tayyeb
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18 March - On the occasion of the 6th anniversary of the document on Human Fraternity signed by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmad al-Tayyeb, the General Secretary of COMECE, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto, participated in a round table discussion on "Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together - What are the lessons of the Document signed 6 years ago?". The event was organised by the EPP Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue. Fr. Barrios Prieto: "It is a document that offers a solid foundation for harmonious living together and peace in our world". List of speakers also included Imam Yahya Pallavicini (Chairman of EULEMA) and MEP Željana Zovko (Co-Chair of the EPP Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue). Watch the full video recording
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NEWS | French bishops’ conference delegation visits COMECE
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19 March - A delegation from the French Bishops’ Conference (CEF) visited the Secretariat of COMECE to meet its advisers and receive an update on recent actions taken by COMECE as part of its mission of dialogue with the institutions of the European Union.
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The visit to the Secretariat provided a valuable opportunity to exchange information on key EU policies relevant to the Church. COMECE General Secretary, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto, along with all advisers of the Secretariat, outlined COMECE’s work within the framework of Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and highlighted some of the most recent examples of COMECE’s tangible impact on the EU legislative process.
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The full delegation was composed of:
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- Éric de Moulins-Beaufort (Archbishop of Reims and President of CEF)
- Vincent Jordy (Archbishop of Tours)
- Bruno Feillet (Bishop of Séez)
- Vincent Dollmann (Archbishop of Cambrais)
- Antoine Hérouard (Archbishop of Dijon and First Vice-President of COMECE)
- Hugues de Woillemont (General Secretary of CEF)
- Céline Reynaud-Fourton (Director of CEF Institutional and International Affairs office)
- Alice de Gentile (CEF Responsible for Institutional Affairs)
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We would like to take this opportunity to once again extend a warm invitation to the EU Bishops’ Conferences to visit us throughout the year. These visits serve as valuable occasions for additional dialogue, exchange and collaboration, allowing us to strengthen our shared mission and deepen our engagement with the European institutions. Read the News | Photos of the meeting
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NEWS | University students discuss European and global affairs at the Secretariat of COMECE
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19 March - COMECE General Secretary Fr. Barrios Prieto and Adviser Misak received a group of students from the Nanovic Institute for European Studies and the Keough School of Global Affairs of the Notre Dame University. Together, they exchanged on current geopolitical challenges, as well as the role of the EU and the Church in addressing them.
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NEWS | Promoting a multi-disciplinary and interfaith approach to overcome hatred?
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4 April - Our General Secretary Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto exchanged with Canadian-Palestinian author Izzeldin Abuelaish on promoting a multi-disciplinary and interfaith approach to overcome hatred and build peace in the Middle East and globally.
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NEWS | Leuven University students visit COMECE to learn more about its mission of dialogue with the institutions of the EU
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13 March - COMECE General Secretary Fr. Barrios Prieto welcomed researchers from the Collegium Hungaricum in Leuven to exchange on COMECE's mission of dialogue with EU institutions, especially through our work on peace and global justice.
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NEWS | Introducing our two new interns – Get to know them!
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5 March - We’re pleased to welcome our two new interns! Over the next few months, Luca (Italy) will support our work in youth & education, and Miguel-Martin (Belgium) will assist our office manager with accounting tasks. Welcome to the team! Read more
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STATEMENT | EU bishops call for European unity and solidarity with Ukraine amid geopolitical uncertainty
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4 March - In the context of increasing complexity and geopolitical uncertainty surrounding peace in Ukraine, COMECE issued a statement expressing strong support for Ukraine. COMECE: “Ukraine’s struggle for peace will also be decisive for the fate of Europe and the world”. Read the Press Release | Download the Statement: EN | FR | DE | IT | ES | SK | PL
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STATEMENT | COMECE shares concerns for the dignity and presence of the people of Gaza
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20 February - In the wake of the ongoing tragedy unfolding in the Holy Land, particularly in the Gaza Strip, COMECE echoes the humanitarian plea issued on Friday, 14 February 2025, by the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem. The local Christian leaders express their concern about the “grave threat of mass displacements” and call for the “protection of the dignity and presence of the people of Gaza”. Read the News | Read the Declaration
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EVENT | Resurrection Vespers at the Chapel for Europe, Brussels
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14 April - On Sunday, April 27 at 6:00 PM, for the first time, the Chapel for Europe – officially called the Chapel of the Resurrection – will celebrate its name day with solemn vespers, an evening prayer followed by a reception. As we mark this special occasion during the Easter octave, celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Chapel invites the public to get to know the Chapel for Europe and to join for a moment of prayer and joyful fellowship. Read more
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Next at COMECE
24 April
COMECE Data Protection meeting to be held online. The meeting will be presided over by Mgr. Theodorus C.M. Hoogenboom.
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26-27 April
The COMECE General Secretary will participate in the signing ceremony of the new Charta Oecumenica. The meeting will be held in Vilnius, Lithuania.
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28 April
Meeting of the General Secretaries of the EU Bishops’ Conferences to take place at the COMECE Secretariat.
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29-30 April
At the invitation of the organisers, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto will participate in the EPP Congress, which will take place in Valencia, Spain.
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5-6 May
Adviser José Luis Bazán will participate as a speaker in a conference on Religious Freedom and Holy See’s diplomacy to be held at the Charles University in Prague.
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COMECE-IFCU invite you to join the upcoming conference “European Universities Alliances: An Opportunity for Catholic Universities?” – a two-part webinar series taking place on Tuesday, 6 May 2025, and Tuesday, 13 May 2025, from 11:30 to 12:30 (CEST). More info and Registration
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8 May
Meeting of the COMECE Youth Platform to be held at the COMECE Secretariat in Brussels.
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8-9 May
Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto will participate in the Caritas Europa Regional Conference.
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8-9 May
Adviser José Luis Bazán will participate as a speaker in a conference on the abuse of refugee systems to be held at the Ludovika University, Budapest.
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13 May
COMECE-IFCU invite you to join the upcoming conference “European Universities Alliances: An Opportunity for Catholic Universities?” – a two-part webinar series taking place on Tuesday, 6 May 2025, and Tuesday, 13 May 2025, from 11:30 to 12:30 (CEST). More info and Registration
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15-15 May
Spring meeting of the COMECE Commission on Culture and Education to take place in Brussels. The meeting will be presided over by Mgr. Janusz Stepnowski.
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19-20 May
Spring meeting of the COMECE Commission on External Affairs to take place in Brussels.
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Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences
of the European Union
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Communication & Press Manager
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