The 2001 ECEN Assembly met from 26-31 May, in Raubichi near Minsk, Belarus at the kind invitation of the Patriarchal Exarch of all Belarus, H.E. Metropolit Philaret of Minsk and Slutsk. The main theme of the Assembly was "energy" – the development of an environmentally sound energy supply; the possibilities and methods to save energy. The agenda also explored a deepening of the theological rationale for the Churches' engagement in environmental issues. Aidan Hart an Orthodox speaker from the UK gave a keynote talk "The Pain of the Earth : A Cry for Change", which was followed by responses by representatives of other Church traditions.

For the duration of the Assembly, the geographic context of Belarus was of great significance. Excursions as well as meetings with NGOs and Church spokesmen from Belarus provided the participants with first hand information about the country and its environmental and church context. In several ways, the Assembly has therefore constituted a forum for an extraordinary encounter between East and West on environmental issues.

The Assembly took place at Raubichi, which is a winter sports training centre, situated in pleasant rolling country beside a lake about 30km outside Minsk. Our closeness to the natural beauty of Belarus was much appreciated as we gathered to consider our care for God's creation.