Dialogue Press Release
USCC News Release: Archbishop Roach Hails Lutheran Merger Announcement (1982)
USCC News Release: Archbishop Roach Hails Lutheran Merger Announcement by William Ryan, September 9, 1982
WASHINGTON--The president of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops hailed a merger decision by three Lutheran denominations as a "significant step in the broader movement of ecumenism."
"Roman Catholics join their Lutheran brothers and sisters in rejoicing at this new and important development," said Archbishop John R. Roach of St. Paul and Minneapolis.
"Although it is of immediate concern to Lutherans, I believe it represents another significant step in the broader movement of ecumenism. I congratulate those who participated in this historic decision, and I renew my prayers for the speedy coming of that full unity among Christians which Christ wills for His Church."