Ecumenical Movement Year 12 SOR

What is Ecumenism? Fostering unity amongst all Christian denominations Goals – peace, social justice, harmony and tolerance amongst individuals. Opposite of sectarianism

Historical Development... Commenced in 1948 with the World Council of Churches (WCC), but this was mainly Protestants and Orthodox Didn’t grow until post Vatican II (1965+) when Catholics became involved

Profile: Uniting Church 3rd largest Christian denomination Merger of Methodists, Presbyterians and Congregationalists. Began in 1977 Promote – “bear witness to that unity which is both Christ’s gift and will for the Church”

Examples..... NNCA (National Council of Churches in Australia) NSW Ecumenical Council

NCCA Previously known as ‘Australian Council of Churches ‘ Formed in 1994 Comprised of 15 Christian churches that work together on a variety of initiatives Eg. Christian World Service: aid those suffering from injustice and poverty. Eg. Youth Service for Reconciliation: work with Indigenous youth in crisis

NSW Ecumenical Council Began in 1982 17 Churches in ACT and NSW Initiatives – Reflect upon theology together Implement local initiatives Address key social justice issues in the community Educate the community

“.....As churches together we are committed to a journey of peace and reconciliation for ourselves and our world, rediscovering our unity in the love of Christ in order that God's love and healing may be known to all. Being together enables us to know God more deeply, to express a common voice on issues of concern in society, and to work together on specific projects concerning the churches and the needs of the wider community.”

Examples.... Make Indigenous Poverty History House of Welcome – provides support and services to asylum seekers living in the community without work rights or support services.

MULTI-FAITH DIALOGUE

What is Inter-faith dialogue? Discussions between groups of different religious traditions to foster mutual understanding. Fosters a ‘common ground’ Goal – unity, peace, tolerance and promote social justice amongst different communities.

Why is it so important?? Promote respect for cultural diversity Eliminate prejudice and conflict between religions eg. Stereotyping and prejudice towards Muslims Build relationships and support each other.

Development of this movement... 1989 – 5th World Conference on Religion and Peace increased inter-faith dialogue significantly. 1996 – Pope John Paul II held an interfaith prayer service 2000 – Interfaith Appeal for Peace: against religious violence in Indonesia 2002 – started annual Bali bombing commemoration

Examples.... Australian Council of Christians & Jews – Holocaust education Affinity Intercultural Foundation – increase awareness of Muslims in the community, promoting interaction with those of other faiths. Federation of Ethnic Communities of Councils of Australia (FECCA) – bring women of different religious traditions together to promote harmony, understanding and respect.