Jeftić, from Serbia, an Eastern Orthodox theologian, was a researcher at the Institute of Philosophy and Social Theory to University of Belgrade. He was also theological consultant for the Churches Commission for Migrants in Europe.
Involved in the ecumenical movement since his studies, his doctoral research focused on the work of ecumenical theologian Thomas F. Torrance. In 2013, he was delegated as a representative of the Serbian Orthodox Church to the WCC’s 10th Assembly in Busan. Since then, he has been a member of the WCC Central Committee and, since 2018, a member of the WCC Assembly Planning Committee. He has also been invited to teach courses as part of the 2022 program of the World Ecumenical Institute.
“The work and mission of the Faith and Order Commission aligns deeply with my core beliefs and values that have guided my life and my theological development,” he said. “To be faithful to Christ‘the call and the very nature of God‘s revelation, which can only be understood as a communal event, I believe that theology should be ecumenical.
He also believes that theology should be universal. “If confined within imaginary boundaries, whether academic or ecclesial, theology fails to offer its service to the world whose salvation has been brought about by Christ,” he said.
Rev. Dr. Susan Durber, Moderator of the Faith and Order Commission, said, “Dr. Jeftić impressed all of us who met him with his depth of theological reflection, creative thinking and calm personal presence. It is exciting to welcome an Orthodox theologian as Director of Faith and Order. He will join an experienced secretariat and committed commissioners as we prepare to mark Nicaea 2025 and explore how we can live out apostolic faith in unity in today’s world.
WCC Faith and Order Commission
Digital edition of Faith and Order documents
