The second issue of the series “On Spiritual Reasoning” is devoted to modern attempts to conclude unions between the Orthodox Church and the Latin (Catholic) Church, as well as between the Orthodox Church and the Monophysite (Oriental) churches. The preparation of these unions has been going on for many years as part of the general ecumenical process. The release includes specific documents - draft unions, drawn up and pre-signed during 1990-1993. in Balamand (union with the Latins) and in Chambesy (union with the Monophysites). Their critical analysis is contained in the responses of the fathers of Holy Mount Athos and Metropolitan Cyprian of Oropos and Fili, published here. The historical lesson of the Florentine Union, which is unusually relevant for us, is revealed in the works of St. Mark of Ephesus; and the issue ends with two letters from St. Ignatius Brianchaninov. The creations of these lamps of Orthodoxy reflect the general patristic view of the problem of unions and the very foundations of ecumenical ideology. In February 1997, the Council of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church discussed the problem of modern unions, and the Synod resolution of July 17, 1997 indicated the need for a pan-Orthodox discussion. The second edition of this book is a response to these decisions. Center for Orthodox Enlightenment St. Petersburg - 1997

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