Bara takes over from longtime national director Carl Hétu, who recently moved over to Development and Peace-Caritas Canada.

Bara comes to CNEWA from the Montreal-based Canadian Centre for Ecumenism.

“Dr. Adriana Bara’s proven ability to shepherd numerous teams, while focusing on dialogue and relationships between Christian churches and other religious communities, uniquely positions her to lead CNEWA Canada at this moment in its history,” said Archbishop Marcel Damphousse of Ottawa, chair of CNEWA’s board of directors in Canada.

“Dr. Bara will continue building upon the important work that CNEWA has done in Canada since 2003, offering humanitarian and pastoral support to its partners overseas.”

CNEWA, an agency of the Holy See, works with, for and through the Eastern churches to aid displaced families, provide care for the vulnerable, assists the marginalized and supports religious formation. It is present in the Middle East, northeast Africa, India and Eastern Europe. It was founded in 1926 by Pope Pius XI and was incorporated as a charity in Canada in 2003. H´tu opened its first office in Ottawa in 2004.

 “My appointment comes during the month of August in which we celebrate the Mother of God,” said Bara, who holds a doctorate in theology from the University of Montreal. “I pray she guides, inspires and helps us all in our work of helping people.”

“I am grateful to God Dr. Bara has accepted this nomination,” said Msgr. Peter Vaccari, president of CNEWA, “and most grateful she has accepted this position in Canada.

“She comes to us after years of active dialogue among separated communities, enhancing relationships by addressing challenges and conflicts, while deepening bonds of trust to promote collaboration for the common good.”