Russia: Order of Merit for Archbishop Brauer

Strengthening solidarity and peace in word and deed
(LWI) - The Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Russia (ELCR), Dietrich Bauer, was awarded the Federal Republic of Germany's Grand Cross of Merit on 1 September.

During a reception, the German ambassador in Moscow, Géza Andreas von Geyr, presented the Order of Merit to Brauer on behalf of Federal President Frank Walter Steinmeier. With the Order of Merit, the Federal Republic of Germany honors political, socio-economic, and intellectual achievements.

An announcement stated that the award was presented to the Archbishop for strengthening "solidarity and peace between people of different faiths in word and deed." He had made a "significant contribution to strengthening interdenominational relations in Russia and abroad."

Brauer had initiated events that serve "the unity among the Christian denominations of Russia and Germany." For example, on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, round tables and other events were held in which persons from different Christian churches in Russia and Germany took part.

"This award is a recognition and appreciation of the commitment by Archbishop Brauer and the ELCR to peace, ecumenical cooperation and reconciliation - both in Russia and among nations. I see it also as an encouragement to strengthen the church's presence and engagement in the public space," said the Lutheran World Federation's Regional Secretary for Europe, Rev. Dr Ireneusz Lukas.

Suorce: https://www.lutheranworld.org