ECUMENISM
Ecumenism - Definition
 Ecumenism is
the movement
for the unity of
the Christian
churches.
Ecumenism
 The word ECUMENISM comes
from the Greek word
OIKOUMENE
 OIKOUMENE means the
whole inhabited earth
Symbol
 The symbol for
ecumenism shows
the Cross of Christ
above the boat – the
Church – sailing
together on the
(rough) waters of life.
Ecumenism
 Ecumenism is a challenge to the Christian churches to
build bridges of understanding
Whilst
 At the same time recognising and preserving the
dignity, wealth and beauty of the individual person’s
beliefs, customs and creeds.
Ecumenism
 Ecumenism is about
renewal within and of the
Church
Ecumenism
Ecumenism is about:
 Praying
 Working
 Studying
 Witnessing
 Celebrating
 Dreaming
TOGETHER
Ecumenism
 Many significant developments in Australia’s
religious communities point to a strongly
developing sense of inter-faith dialogue and
religious harmony since WWII.
 Various denominations have united to promote
evangelical crusades by American Billy Graham.
 Organisations such as the Festival of Light that
support traditional Christian values and oppose
abortion and homosexual law reform draw
members from across denominations.
Ecumenism
 Internationally there are formal dialogues such as
Catholic-Orthodox, Anglican-Catholic and CatholicLutheran.
 In 1999 the Catholic-Lutheran dialogue resulted in
agreement on the question of justification.
 In Australia the Uniting Church was formed after
ecumenical discussion going back to Federation.
 Vatican II opened up opportunities for the Catholic
Church to participate ecumenically.
Ecumenism
 National Council of Churches in Australia.
 The World Council of Churches.
 Dozens of interdenominational and ecumenical groups
operate in Australia.
 Local Christian groups often collaborate and share
worship, outreach and physical resources.
 Local ministers, priests and parish workers meet
regularly.
 Carols by Candlelight organised by local ecumenical
groups.
Ecumenism
 Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox leaders meet and
agree on matters of doctrine to a level unimaginable thirty
years ago.
 Anglican, Catholic and Uniting Churches jointly produce
documents such as Prison: the last resort (1998),
evidence of a broad Australian ecumenism.
 Joint action for justice – indigenous, refugees.
Ecumenism
 The Australian College of Theology, formed by the
Church of England in 1980, is now an ecumenical
accrediting and examining institute for 25 bible colleges in
Australia and NZ.
 Members of the Sydney College of Divinity include the
Catholic Institute of Sydney, Churches of Christ
Theological College, Saint Mark’s National Theological
Centre and the United Theological College.
Question
What will be the major changes in
Ecumenism over the next 50 years
in Australia?