Greek Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius Hazim (1979-2012) of Antioch and his Perspective on Inter-Christian and Interreligious Dialogue

Antioch, a divided Christianity in the milieu of Islam, has much to contribute regarding dialogue, both among Christian Churches and between Christianity and Islam. I would describe Antioch as a witness to the cross of division, awaiting the resurrection of unity. The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, Ignatius IV Hazim (d. 2012), is one of themost important Orthodox theologians of the last century. He was correctly characterized as a “leader of peace, dialogue and reconciliation.” He believed that dialogue is an instrument to achieve Christian unity and peaceful coexistence with Muslims. He aimed principally to re-establish unity within Antioch, having as a basis the concept of “plurality in unity.” He was also concerned about the situation of the Christian world at large, and for this reason, was an active figure in the ecumenical movement. Finally, he tried to develop dialogue between Christians and Muslims: a dialogue of love, coexistence and peace. In this paper I would like to highlight the vision of dialogue according to Ignatius IV, by analyzing his thought as expressed in lectures, conferences, kerugma and sermons staged in both the East and West.