I've read that in order not to offend the Orthodox in Communist countries, Pope John XXIII consented, through the Pact of Metz, to a policy that became known as Ostpolitik, which ensured that Vatican II would not confront the realities of Communism.
In exchange, Vatican II got two Russian Orthodox observers to attend the Council...not sure why they would want such attendees.
Why would the Church make such a strange alliance and refuse to condemn communism? Was it for the sake of ecumenism?
Does anyone have any information?
In exchange, Vatican II got two Russian Orthodox observers to attend the Council...not sure why they would want such attendees.
Why would the Church make such a strange alliance and refuse to condemn communism? Was it for the sake of ecumenism?
Does anyone have any information?