Introduction To Ecumenism

An overview of the history, content and future of the modern ecumenical movement, with particular attention to Catholic leadership and the results of dialogues among the churches. +

This book is about ecumenism, from a Catholic point of view. The first part, chapters 1 and 2, describe the history of divisions within the Church, as well as of the efforts to bring about Christian unity. The second part examines Ecumenism from a systematic theological perspective. This first part takes into account the different factors that led to definitive ruptures within the Church, which usually are not only theological. The text gives useful information about what happened after the respective divisions as well as about the various attempts to restore unity, the development of the Ecumenical Movement in the 20th Century, and the current situation of ecumenical dialogue within the Catholic Church. While offering insight into the sad history that has led to the present disunity, this work also highlights the way Christians have sought to bring to fulfill the petition of Christ that his disciples might be one, as He and the Father are one. The second part―chapters three, four and five―offers a systematic theological analysis of unity in the Church, from the point of view of dogmatic theology. We find here an explanation of the Catholic concept of ecumenism, of how Catholic theology understands the unity of the Church, and, finally, of the Catholic principles which sustain the efforts for regaining unity in the Church. The Second Vatican Council, and particularly the Constitution Lumen gentium and the Decree Unitatis redintegratio, are at the foundation of these reflections. At the same time, since the theology of the Church and the life of the Church are intimately connected, there is a profound link between this dogmatic section and the earlier historical section. The last chapter, about the practice of ecumenism, is also written from a theological perspective, but with more links with life and spirituality. The chapter recalls that ecumenism can never simply remain a set of theological principles, but rather inspires an attitude and action in charity which are essential to the Christian life.

According to the author, "In order to understand the present, and move confidently into the future, one must have an appreciation of the past." The book therefore deals, in a non-technical way, with the theology and history of ecumenism, explains the origins of the main Christian denominations, gives a brief history of the World Council of Churches, and introduces some of the current issues. Ecumenical ethics and inter-religious dialogues form the subjects of the two final chapters. The author concludes each chapter with questions for group discussion, and ends the book with suggestions for practical ways in which the ordinary individual can promote ecumenism. Several appendices give useful background information. This book is for the average reader or student of theology who would like to be better informed about ecumenism.

This evangelical and ecumenical ecclesiology survey text provides a comprehensive biblical, historical, and cultural perspective and addresses contemporary issues in church life.

What is Ecumenism? How and when did it start? What are its goals and how will they affect the future of the Christian churches? This book answers these questions and examines the remarkable story of new encounters between Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Old Catholic, and most Protestant churches. Most of these churches have been divided for centuries over issues of theology, faith, and practice. Ecumenism seeks to reconcile these differences and to bring the churches together into a new unity based on their commonalities and their understanding of Christian faith. Here, FitzGerald traces the history of the churches and their divisions and focuses on the ways in which the Ecumenical movement began and the efforts that have been made to assist the churches in overcoming age-old strife, animosity, and misunderstanding. For centuries, Christian churches have remained divided over their doctrinal differences, but beginning in the late nineteenth century, churches and their members slowly began to emerge from their isolation. They began to abandon competition, mistrust, and misunderstanding in an effort to seek out their common interests and faith through meetings and organizations meant to bring them together. The encounters between the churches led to proposals for common prayers for unity, and for common witness in society. While not without difficulty, these encounters have fostered a renewal in Christian theology, worship, and witness, affecting all levels of church life. The process has touched Christians all over the world in various ways. FitzGerald carefully traces the history of the movement and its impact on the churches themselves, as well as the believers who attend them, making this important reading for all Christians and anyone interested in learning more about church division and efforts to restore unity.

What is Ecumenism? Is Christian unity a legitimate hope or just a pious illusion? The aim of this book is to analyze the real obstacles that stand in the path to unity and to propose solutions, where these are possible. Distinguished authors from the main Christian denominations offer a unique insight into the problem of Christian divisions and the relationships between Christian communities. This work is not a politically correct exercise in diplomacy; rather, it informs the reader about the actual state of the ecumenical dialogue.

Ecclesiology is in the center of current ecumenical dialogue. However, this hardly seems to influence theological reflection on church polity. Does a deeper ecumenical understanding of the nature and mission of the church foster a renewal of church polity? This book explores new avenues in this respect, enhancing a truly ecumenical and intercultural approach of the theological discipline of church polity, without neglecting its juridical character. Key issues like liturgy and ordained ministry are featured, as well as concepts like the missional church, synodality, episcopacy, and many others. Examples from Roman Catholic and Anglican canon law - as well as from a number of Protestant church orders - clarify the issues at stake. Finally, its contextual approach stimulates new reflection on church-state relationships. (Series: Church Polity and Ecumenism. Global Perspectives - Vol. 1) [Subject: Religious Studies, Ecumenical Studies, Christianity]

Ivana Noble describes in Essays in Ecumenical Theology I emerging methods, aims and themes. She also shows why the search for common roots, mutual knowledge and shared mission has became so important in (Post)Modern Christianity.