Friends:

I was drinking a little coffee in preparation for the Annual
Tachmindji Event this past Wednesday afternoon at Catholic
University. There was a little snow that day–but that did not
keep over 100 friends from coming. As one professor from Seton Hall
University noted afterward “it was so worth my six hours of travel.”

At the outset, Monsignor Kevin Irwin, Dean of the School of Theology and Religious
Studies at Catholic University, presented His Eminence
Metropolitan Kallistos Ware with the prestigious Quasten Medal in recognition of his
many contribution as a theologian and patrologist.

We then proceeded to the reflections on the recent Ravenna Agreement of the
International Orthodox-Catholic Dialogue. Father Paul McPartlan, who holds the Carl Peter Chair of Ecumenical and Systematic Theology at Catholic University began with a substantive and witty address. Metropolitan Kallistos followed a few minutes later with an equally stimulating and substantive
presentation. It would be impossible to summarize these wonderful presentations

Catholic University streamed the presentations to its website.
You can each it through our own http://www.washtheocon.org/.
Our trustees, Mr. Jack Figel is also offering a DVD of the presentations.

One overall impression I had was of the honesty and integrity of our speakers.
They noted both the possibilities and challenges flowing from this most important
agreement. Much work remains to be done. We need to continually seek the guidance of the
Holy Spirit.

I was gratified that Mrs. Diane Tachmindji, whose generosity makes this yearly event possible, was able to attend. She was warmly applauded by the crowd.

Father Mark Morozowich, Mr. Jack Figel and Marguerite Connolly worked for many
months to put the Event together. I am most grateful to them.

The life of the Consortium is not dull.
In fact, as you can see from my recent blog postings,
February was an incredibly stimulating month.

On this icy day, however, I am taking some Rest!!

Peace,
John