Pan-Orthodox Concern for Animals - Icon - Christ Breaking the Bonds of Animal Suffering. Luke 14:5. Beautiful triptych by Aidan Hart
Non-Profit Organisation

Reducing Animal Suffering
Through the Teachings of the
Eastern Orthodox Church

Bridging Ancient Patristic Wisdom
& Modern Animal Welfare

Icon: Christ Breaking the Bonds of Animal Suffering. Luke 14:5

What we do
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☦ Est. in 2017 with the blessing of
then Archbishop of Thyateira, Gregorios, and 
Metropolitan Kallistos Ware ☦

The Cost of Neglecting God’s Creation

In Orthodox Christianity, animals belong to God’s created order, deserving our respect.

Yet animal suffering often goes unnoticed, and many Christians remain unaware of the teachings of the Church Fathers concerning our relationship with animal creation.

Consequently, this body of patristic teaching receives little attention in Orthodox reflection and practice.

Pan-Orthodox Concern for Animals (P.O.C.A.) brings renewed attention to this part of our Orthodox tradition. By recovering and sharing the wisdom of the Church Fathers, we help Christians renew their commitment to caring for all living creatures.

what we do
What We Do

From Theology to Action: P.O.C.A.’s Impact

Theological Leadership & Scholarship

• Foundational Research
• Major Publications
• Peer-Reviewed Articles
• Patristic Engagement

Global Outreach & Education

• Theological Forums
• Keynote Speeches
• Educational Course
• Seminary Focus

Animal Ethics & Creation Care

• Farmed Animal Welfare
• Wildlife Protection
• Legal & Policy Work
• Climate & Diet

Our Mission

The advancement of Christian respect and responsibility for animal creation with special reference to: Eastern Orthodox teachings – ancient and modern, reducing the suffering of animals and their environments, and how these teachings are relevant to contemporary animal and environmental issues.

who we are
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Publications
Books, academic papers, and
theological articles contributing to creation care

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Countries Represented
A global network of scholars
across the UK, USA, Greece, and beyond

Who We Are

Promoting Compassion for All of God’s Creatures

Theologians

Theologians interpret Scripture and the Church Fathers, calling all Christians to embrace their responsibility toward animal creation.

Pictured above: P.O.C.A. Founding Patron – The Most Reverend Metropolitan Kallistos Ware

Academics

Scholars examine the teachings of the Church Fathers and connect them with contemporary animal welfare research, highlighting the need for merciful action.

Pictured above: P.O.C.A. President – Dr. Christina Nellist (first from left)

Laity

Churchgoers put their faith into practice by showing mercy and caring for the vulnerable. Acts of kindness towards pets and wild animals serve as expressions of Christ’s love.

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P.O.C.A. On the Global Stage


☦ The Halki Summits: Turkey (2019)

☦ International Orthodox Theological Association (IOTA): Romania & Greece (2019, 2023)

☦ European Academy of Religion (EuARe): Scotland (2023)

☦ Ecumenical Perspectives on Climate Justice Symposium: Lebanon (2024)

☦ Major theological symposiums worldwide

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