5. Council of Jerusalem

At St. Mark’s Monastery in Jerusalem, traditionally associated with Mary, the mother of John Mark, we reflect on the Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-29)—a defining moment in the early Church. Here, the apostles and elders gathered to discern God’s will regarding the inclusion of the Gentiles in the Christian community, marking a crucial step in the Church’s universal mission. Paul and Barnabas played a key role, testifying to how God was working among the Gentiles, leading to the decision that faith in Christ, not adherence to the Mosaic Law, was the path to salvation.

This council reminds us that true unity is found in Christ, not in external distinctions. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are invited to embrace the universality of the Gospel, recognizing that God calls all people to salvation. Just as the early Church navigated challenges with faith and discernment, we too are called to trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we build a Church rooted in love, mission, and communion.