Seeking Shared Values

Christianity and Confucianism Discuss a ‘New Heaven and New Earth’ and ‘Daedong’ (Great Harmony) as reported in the Korean Times

Vatican’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue Holds First Official Dialogue with Confucianism in Seoul; Seeking Shared Values for a Just and Harmonious Society

The 1st Confucian-Christian International Colloquium was held on August 4 and 5 at Sogang University Seoul, Korea under the theme "A New Heaven and New Earth and the World of Daedong (Great Harmony)."

Religious leaders and scholars from Korea and abroad examined the ideal societies envisioned by both Confucianism and Christianity and sought ways to jointly address issues facing modern society, such as division, inequality, and the disintegration of communities.

Across eight sessions, the colloquium covered topics including the ideal society presented in scriptures, the social responsibilities of believers, leadership and education for the common good, and responses to the ecological crisis.

A draft of guidelines for ongoing dialogue was unveiled, and a joint statement summarizing the two days of presentations and discussions was issued at the conclusion of the event.