25th Anniversary of the Signing of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification

On October 30 and 31 Wartburg Theological Seminary and the Archdiocese of Dubuque, Iowa joined together in a tw-day ecumenical event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification (JDDJ). Signed on October 31, 1999, in Augsburg, Germany—the JDDJ became a historic milestone that bridged centuries-old divides on salvation theology stemming from the Reformation.

The JDDJ was more than an agreement between Lutherans and Catholics; it marked a profound commitment to Christian unity, inspiring the Methodist Church (2006), Anglican Communion, and the World Communion of Reformed Churches (2017) to embrace this ecumenical vision. Each step of inclusion has expanded our shared witness and strengthened our resolve for reconciliation.

As we look back on this journey, we celebrate the steadfast work toward unity in faith and purpose. Together, let us continue to pursue a future of justice, peace, and deeper communion.