ECUMENISM: THE SEARCH FOR UNITY

ECUMENISM Ecumenism is defined as the movement to reunite all Christians in cooperation it is not merely a movement of dialogue, but of reunion to form one Christian church In your small group: Discuss what you think the boundaries and issues are among the Christian denominations. Consider teachings, view of the Bible, who can become clergy, rituals/practices, style of liturgy. 2

Before Vatican II, the Catholic Church was much less open to dialogue with other Christian groups. Catholics were formerly not permitted to worship with other Christians. Some great strides have been made, e.g. forgiving past excommunications. Today, priests are still not allowed to concelebrate with other denominations if there is Eucharist The Catholic Church has always recognized the baptism of other Christian groups (i.e. converts are not re-baptized) Eastern Orthodoxy is less open to ecumenism - their worldview prevents it (it will weaken orthodoxy). Discussions remain open. In Protestantism, there is disagreement between more liberal and more conservative branches (issues?) The sharing of buildings or services has helped to create renewed bonds 3

INTERFAITH DIALOGUE IN CHRISTIANITY Reflect: There is no Jew or Greek, servant or free, male or female: you are all one in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:28). Review: Nostra Aetate the Catholic Church’s view on the similarities shared by the major world religions the societal need for dialogue the definitions for interfaith responses, including interfaith dialogue 4