Ecumenism

There is a false sense of ecumenism that is alive today. But only partially... I was fortunate to be part of several ecumenical meetings locally in a ministerial association and nationally at the Churches Uniting in Christ plenary. I met many wonderful people at these and other various ecumenical events, but there were inevitably well-intentioned but mistaken people present. These people were those who vigorously pushed ecumenism at any cost. Their motto was "our differences do not matter, we WILL be together." This is not true ecumenism. This is assimilation to the extent that neither tradition is respected for their differences. It is my opinion that this perspective is bad regardless of the situation. For instance, saying that there is no difference between a Catholic and a Protestant is saying that there is no difference between a African American and a Latino person or a woman and a man. Each group has their own experiences, triumphs, struggles, needs, etc. that, while they can be discussed to arrive at greater commonality can never be totally ignored.

There are very profound differences between various Christian groups. Some of these are insurmountable. For example, it is theologically impossible for a group that does not promote belief in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist to be in "communion" with a group that does. Or for Catholic Christians with their belief in sacramental theology to join with a group not professing such a belief. This does not mean that both groups cannot go about bringing hope to the world. Indeed, it is laudable when Christians (and even people of all faiths) join together to combat hunger, poverty, and other injustices.

There is an ecumenical movement that is overdue and it is greater discussion and prayer among orthodox Christians. Roman Catholics, Old (Roman) Catholics, the Eastern Orthodox, Continuing Anglicans, and the Oriental Orthodox have much in common and can contribute to each other's spiritual lives in greater ways. Not only is communication among these groups laudable, but even within jurisdictions themselves. For example, most groups do not recognize the Orthodox Church in America's right to exist. The same is true of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. Yet, these groups have every right to exist as much as ancient patriarchates. It is absolutely ridiculous that they could be "shunned" and considered "uncanonical" because of political reasons. It would be naive to say that politics do not exist in the Church. But to let them prevent even basic dialogue is completely antithetical to Our Lord's commandment that "they all be one."

We must realize that Orthodox and Catholic believers are no longer rivals. We are allies. The rivalry must be gone once and for all. If we understand that, proselytism will stop.” - Russian Orthodox Bishop Hilarion.