The World Council of Churches -- which groups most Christian denominations except Roman Catholics -- has begun a meeting in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe.

Correspondents say the meeting -- held every eight years -- is overshadowed by a growing rift between Orthodox and Protestant churches.

Reports say representatives of the Russian and Greek Orthodox Churches stayed away from the opening worship service.

Among the issues dividing liberals and conservatives are demands for the ordination of women priests and the acceptance of homosexuals.