Community of Protestant Churches in Europe

The CPCE traces its origins to the Leuenberg Agreement, signed in 1973 at Leuenberg near Basel, Switzerland, which established church fellowship among European Protestant churches. The agreement resolved centuries-old doctrinal disputes, particularly the condemnations exchanged between Lutherans and Reformed in the 16th century, by affirming a common understanding of the gospel and the sacraments. It declared that the condemnations no longer apply to the contemporary churches, thus enabling mutual recognition of ministries and eucharistic hospitality.

The fellowship was initially called the Leuenberg Church Fellowship, and in 2003 it adopted the name Community of Protestant Churches in Europe to reflect its broader identity. The agreement was a response to the fragmentation of Protestantism and the need for a united witness in a secularizing Europe.

The CPCE is governed by a General Assembly that meets every six years, an Executive Committee, and a President, supported by a small secretariat based in Vienna, Austria. The General Assembly elects the President and sets the agenda for theological study and practical cooperation. Member churches include national churches, regional churches, and free churches, representing a wide spectrum of Protestant traditions.

Membership is open to churches that accept the Leuenberg Agreement and participate in the fellowship's life. The CPCE works closely with other ecumenical bodies, such as the Conference of European Churches and the World Council of Churches, and has engaged in bilateral dialogues with the Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox churches.

The CPCE conducts theological studies on topics such as baptism, the Lord's Supper, ministry, and the church's role in society. Its documents, including the Leuenberg Agreement and subsequent statements, serve as a basis for mutual recognition and cooperation. The fellowship has addressed issues like peace, justice, and the integrity of creation, reflecting its commitment to public witness.

In recent years, the CPCE has focused on the challenges of migration, religious freedom, and the future of Europe, offering a Protestant voice in continental debates. It also supports theological education and exchanges among member churches, fostering a sense of shared identity.

Beyond its main activities, the CPCE has facilitated the Meissen Agreement between the Church of England and the German Protestant churches, and the Reuilly Agreement with French and Belgian churches, which are not part of the CPCE but maintain close ties. The fellowship also includes the Waldensian Church, which has a distinct history of pre-Reformation origin, and the Church of the Czech Brethren, which traces its roots to the Hussite movement.

The CPCE's secretariat in Vienna is a small but active hub, and its president is often a prominent theologian or church leader. The fellowship has also engaged in dialogue with Pentecostal and Evangelical churches, exploring areas of common witness while respecting differences.

Leuenberg Agreement

The 1973 theological accord that established church fellowship among European Protestant churches.

Church fellowship

A relationship of mutual recognition and shared sacramental life among churches.

Lutheran

A Protestant tradition following the teachings of Martin Luther.

Reformed

A Protestant tradition influenced by John Calvin and Ulrich Zwingli.

United churches

Churches formed by the union of Lutheran and Reformed congregations.

Methodist

A Protestant tradition originating from the Wesleyan revival.