Arguments For and Against Ecumenism

I received a comment the other day which asked for positives and negatives about ecumenism to enable the reader to come to a conclusion.  I'm not sure I can achieve the last part because ecumenism is in its nature something we all have to make a decision about.  The aim of this post is simply to suggest some things you may wish to consider if you are unsure about ecumenism.

I don't think it is the separation of the churches as such that is the problem.  If all splits between the churches were amicable, we would see them as the church adapting to changing circumstances.  On the contrary for hundreds of years the churches have persecuted, imprisoned, suppressed and killed one another.  Our past is shameful and most Christians recognise this today.  There are still tensions between some churches but violence between Christians is rare.

Another question is whether full visible unity is an essential part of the ecumenical movement.  Some argue that the ecumenical goal is complete reconciliation of the churches, so that at some time in the future there will be a single worldwide church.  Others argue this is an eschatological goal; such perfection can only be attained as an act of God at the end of time.  Given the divisions within the ecumenical movement over this issue, I think it is safe to say full visible unity is not essential to the ecumenical mindset.  So, when you read what follows it is important not to confuse full visible unity with the ecumenical movement in its entirety.

Local Ecumenism

1. For new churches and small congregations, ecumenism can seem marginal to their interests or even threatening.  I think the notes from a lecture by Doug Gay, are worth reading.  It has to be helpful for Christians to see themselves as a part of something bigger than their small congregation.  To worship knowing you are part of 2 billion Christians worldwide has to mean something.
2. Support for mission whether it is a common mission between several churches in a neighbourhood or churches supporting each other in their individual mission projects.  Either way, there is benefit sharing insights from a range of traditions, offering a range of liturgical and theological styles and as opportunities for church members to choose from a range of activities.
3. Sharing of resources such as buildings, finance and expertise.
4. Improvement of the image of Christian churches in a neighbourhood.  Genuine fellowship and hospitality is likely to be more impressive than several churches duplicating activities and not on speaking terms.

Formal Ecumenism

It is easy to be dismissive of formal ecumenical talks but they have not been without success.  Ongoing conversations between churches have opened up new areas of agreement, eg most churches recognise each other's baptisms.  Formal talks usually take place nationally and internationally.

1. Churches are challenged to articulate their views and explain their practices.  For many this results in a deeper understanding of their own tradition. 
2. Growth in trust between churches can lead to greater collaboration, eg in Britain the Methodist, United Reformed and Baptist Churches work together over public issues; Methodists and Anglicans collaborate over safeguarding.
3. Receptive Ecumenism is an opportunity for churches to exchange ideas to help each other explore theological difficulties.
4. It is most important to take seriously the many places in the New Testament which emphasise the importance of unity.  For many ecumenists these texts are the foundation for their commitment to Christian unity.

International Ecumenism

1. There is in effect a community of churches around the world and ecumenism is an opportunity for small churches to be recognised and learn from the larger churches.  The Global Christian Forum is a recent example of how ecumenical conversations are including wider groups of churches.
2. Ecumenical successes in one part of the work can encourage ecumenism elsewhere.

I'm sure there are other arguments and welcome ideas from readers of this post.

Comments

[Chris James]

What is the bear minimum of a satisfactory oneness? Volf and Newbigin weigh in: http://duodigest.blogspot.com/2008/01/goal-of-ecumenism-why-and-how-to-be-one.html

[Chris Sissons]

Thank you Chris, this is an interesting post and I have added it to my list of ecumenical posts in the left hand sidebar. I need to find time to study it more detail but hope to comment in the not too distant future.

[Chris james]

I hope to here from you again. For more on newbigin's insights check out some other posts as well. -chris

[Chris Sissons]

Thank you for the reminder Chris. I have made a start on a series of posts responding to your post. They should be displayed in a couple of days. I'll have a hunt around for your other Newbigin posts.