The Roum Cultural Association, in collaboration with the Middle East Council of Churches, held the Fifth Scientific Conference on the 1700th Anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea on May 31, 2025, Rabweh, Lebanon.
The conference was well-organized, beginning with registration at 8:30 AM and opening speeches that set a scholarly and respectful tone, including addresses by Dr. Najeeb Jahshan and Professor Michel Abs.
The event featured several insightful sessions covering the historical context prior to the council, ecclesiastical issues, and the council’s outcomes, all treated from a canonical perspective.
Our Academic Dean, Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Fadi Rabbat, participated in the conference via Zoom. He delivered a presentation on the fate of Arianism within the Roum Empire. Fr. Fadi focused on the importance of the local Synod of Antioch, held just before the Council of Nicaea, and demonstrated how part of the resolutions of this synod were adopted by the Council of Nicaea. He emphasized the significance and importance of true synodality, manifested at the Council of Nicaea—an early understanding of church unity and collective decision-making that dates back to the Council of the Apostles in Jerusalem (Acts of the Apostles, Chap. 15).
Fr. Fadi also highlighted how the Council of Nicaea defined the faith, establishing foundational doctrines that eventually contributed to what we now call Dogmatic Canon Law.
His presentation provided a profound understanding of the long-term impact of the council’s decisions on Christian doctrine, church unity, and church canon law.
The conference also included a special segment honoring Dr. Assad Rustum, a prominent historian, which was broadcast live via Tele Lumière.
Overall, the conference was a great success, characterized by lively discussions, valuable historical, theological, social, scientific and canonical insights, and a warm, collaborative atmosphere.
The organization received praise for its professionalism, ensuring a seamless flow of presentations and discussions, making it a memorable event for all attendees. The event concluded with closing remarks by Professor Michel Abs and a shared lunch, fostering further dialogue and camaraderie among participants.
