The Unity of the Church: Gift and Calling

The purpose of God according to Holy Scripture is to gather the whole of creation under the Lordship of Jesus Christ in whom, by the power of the Holy Spirit, all are brought into communion with God (Eph. 1). The Church is the foretaste of this communion with God and with one another. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit enable the one Church to live as sign of the reign of God and servant of the reconciliation with God, promised and provided for the whole creation. The purpose of the Church is to unite people with Christ in the power of the Spirit, to manifest communion in prayer and action and thus to point to the fullness of communion with God, humanity and the whole creation in the glory of the kingdom.
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Posted: Feb. 20, 1991 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9714
Categories: Documents • In this article: Christian unity, WCC Assembly, WCC Commission on Faith & Order Transmis : 20 févr. 1991 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9714
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Christian unity, WCC Assembly, WCC Commission on Faith & Order

Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church

The Commission for dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church met at the Spirituality Center of the Syro-Malabar Church at Kottayam (Kerala, South India) December 5-8, 1994. All Commission members were present.

1. The principal subject was the study on the role of the Episcopate in guaranteeing the Unity of the Church. After taking up again the text on “Synodal Structure and Practice” (P.M.O. John) two other documents were presented: “Koinonia in the Church” (Mar Severios) and “Ecclesial Communion: A biblical-theological perspective” (P.M. Vellanickal). The sub-commission has begun to draft a first synthesis on “the Church as Communion (Koinonia)” which has been discussed by the assembly.

These progressive studies, which have not led immediately to concrete decisions, have engaged the commission in a process of successive approaches to the mystery of the Church and more precisely of its sacramental structure which is common to the two Churches. These approaches also permit us to perceive the links between this structure and the exercise of authority in the Church. It has therefore asked a sub-commission to explore more deeply the notions of authority (exousia) and of service (diakonia in the Church understood as communion (koinonia).
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Posted: Dec. 8, 1994 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=8540
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Catholic, dialogue, India, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church Transmis : 8 déc. 1994 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=8540
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Catholic, dialogue, India, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church

Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church

The Commission for dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church met at the Spirituality Center of the Syro-Malabar Church at Kottayam (Kerala, South India) December 9, 1994. All Commission members were present.

1. In the course of this fourth meeting, the Commission spent the greater part of its time on the issue of the reception, in each Church, of the agreement on mixed marriages published January 25, 1994. On each side it has been welcomed in a very positive way. The faithful have experienced the new attitudes as a liberation because they respect and enlarge the freedom of choice of these minorities in regard to marriage and family life. If some difficulties have arisen on certain points, it has been because of of the lack of awareness among the clergy more of the Agreement itself than of the Pastoral Directives which accompanied it. It seems indispensable to foresee in each diocese a small committee or a diocesan delegate with the responsibility to resolve the more urgent problems.
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Posted: Dec. 9, 1994 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=8546
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Catholic, dialogue, Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church Transmis : 9 déc. 1994 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=8546
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Catholic, dialogue, Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church

Towards a Common Understanding and Vision of the WCC

The text that follows is the outcome of more than eight years of study and consultation on the “common understanding and vision of the World Council of Churches”, mandated by the WCC Central Committee at its meeting in 1989. Since the Seventh Assembly of the WCC in 1991, this subject has continuously been on the agenda of the Central Committee; in addition, it has been extensively discussed in meetings of WCC commissions, advisory bodies and staff. Insights have been sought and received from WCC member churches, other churches and a broad range of ecumenical partners, as well as many individual participants in and students of the ecumenical movement.

The WCC Executive Committee agreed in February 1995 that this process of consultation should aim at preparing a document for the Eighth Assembly, on the occasion of the WCC’s 50th anniversary, which might serve as an “ecumenical charter” for the 21st century. In September 1995, the Central Committee approved a procedure for preparing such a text. An initial draft came from a consultation in December 1995 which brought together some 35 persons from all regions and church traditions. This was shared with a variety of groups and individuals, then revised in June 1996 and sent to the Central Committee for discussion in September 1996. Its responses were incorporated into a “working draft” distributed to WCC member churches and ecumenical partners, who were asked to react to it by the end of June 1997. On the basis of some 153 written responses received from member churches and ecumenical bodies, as well as discussions during personal visits by WCC staff and others to many churches and partners, a new draft was presented to the Central Committee for discussion at its meeting in September 1997. The text that follows incorporates amendments proposed during that meeting.
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Posted: Sept. 19, 1997 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9706
Categories: Documents • In this article: Christian unity, WCC Central Committee Transmis : 19 sept. 1997 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9706
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Christian unity, WCC Central Committee

Communiqué: Evangelical-Catholic consultation 1997

In 1993 there was a first meeting in Venice (Italy) for conversations between Evangelical and Roman Catholic representatives, co-sponsored by the World Evangelical Fellowship and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. The themes were Justification, Scripture and Tradition. As a follow up to it, a second meeting for conversations was held in the Ecumenical Institute of Tantur (Jerusalem), October 12-19, 1997. Participants represented different regions of the world and a variety of Christian ministries.

The main themes for these conversations — agreed upon during the Venice meeting — were issues related to the nature and mission of the Church. Representatives of each tradition presented a paper on each theme. The discussion that followed evidenced a spirit of mutual acceptance and disposition to listen to one another and pray together.

From the discussions, some points of agreement emerged, as well as areas that demand more reflection and theological work. It was felt that it is still too early to present an elaborate document. We therefore limit ourselves to list the main points on which we have come to a common understanding as well as the points that we would suggest as an agenda for the future conversations between the World Evangelical Fellowship and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, if both partners agree to do so.
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Posted: Oct. 19, 1997 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2192
Categories: Communiqué, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • In this article: Catholic, Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, World Evangelical Alliance Transmis : 19 oct. 1997 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2192
Catégorie : Communiqué, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • Dans cet article : Catholic, Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, World Evangelical Alliance

A Treasure in Earthen Vessels: An Instrument for an Ecumenical Reflection on Hermeneutics

This text explores the complex, potentially conflictual but often creative field of hermeneutics, focused specifically on the hermeneutical task entailed in the ecumenical search for visible church unity. This exploration, carried out at the request of the Fifth World Conference on Faith and Order (Santiago de Compostela, 1993), is a part of the ongoing work of Faith and Order.

Hermeneutical questions emerged in ecumenical work already in its beginnings. The churches’ responses to the Baptism, Eucharist and Ministry text made it especially clear that Faith and Order needed to reflect on what is involved when authors, readers and interpreters of ecumenical documents come from many different contexts and confessions. The significance of the hermeneutical task for the ecumenical movement has deepened and widened since this initial perception. Indeed, representatives of churches from all parts of the world who participated in the Santiago conference made it clear that the work of Faith and Order could progress fruitfully only with serious exploration of the hermeneutical issues.

This text is the product of three study consultations (Dublin 1994, Lyons 1996 and Bossey 1997), and two small drafting meetings (Boston 1994 and Faverges 1998). Participants in these gatherings included members of the World Council of Churches’ Commission on Faith and Order, joined by scholars particularly interested in hermeneutical questions. Participants came from all parts of the world and represented many ecclesial traditions (e.g. Anglican, Anabaptist/Pietist, Lutheran, Methodist, Old Catholic, Orthodox, Reformed, Roman Catholic). Interim versions were reviewed and critiqued at various stages by the Board of Faith and Order and by its Plenary Commission meeting in Moshi, Tanzania, in 1996. They have also been studied and responded to by a number of scholars in the field. Each and every response along the way has received careful attention.
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Posted: Jan. 1, 1998 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9731
Categories: Documents • In this article: Christian unity, hermeneutics, WCC Commission on Faith & Order Transmis : 1 janv. 1998 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9731
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Christian unity, hermeneutics, WCC Commission on Faith & Order

Orthodox churches hold WCC at arms’ length

A pan-Orthodox conference that took place from April 29 to May 2, 1998, at Thessaloniki, Greece, was devoted to relations between Orthodoxy and the ecumenical movement – a topic which has caused concern among very many people not only in the Russian but also other Local Orthodox Churches.
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Posted: May 8, 1998 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2
Categories: Communiqué, News • In this article: Orthodox, WCC Transmis : 8 mai 1998 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2
Catégorie : Communiqué, News • Dans cet article : Orthodox, WCC

Lutheran-Orthodox Dialogue Issues ‘Common Statement’

[CHICAGO | ELCA News] Talks between the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas have arrived at “A Lutheran-Orthodox Common Statement on Faith in the Holy Trinity.” The 13-paragraph communique explains the emphasis of both traditions on the Nicene Creed and draws attention to a
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Posted: Feb. 19, 1999 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=4980
Categories: Communiqué, ELCA News • In this article: dialogue, Lutheran, Orthodox Transmis : 19 févr. 1999 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=4980
Catégorie : Communiqué, ELCA News • Dans cet article : dialogue, Lutheran, Orthodox

Communiqué: Evangelical-Catholic consultation 1999

1. A theological consultation between Evangelicals and Catholics took place from 7-13 November 1999. Jointly sponsored by the World Evangelical Fellowship’s Theological Commission and the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, the meeting took place at the George Williams Campus of Aurora University, Williams Bay, Wisconsin, USA. It followed on from two previous consultations between WEF and Catholic Church representatives, held in 1993 in Venice, Italy and in 1997 at the Tantur Ecumenical Institute near Jerusalem. [Note: The World Evangelical Fellowship (WEF) changed its name to World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) in 2000.]

2. The Williams Bay meeting sought to deepen mutual understanding and respect between Evangelicals and Catholics, using the occasion to hear how each understood one another’s traditions, convictions and concerns. More particularly its aim was to face misunderstandings that put stumbling blocks in the way of the Good News being proclaimed and heard.

Four papers were prepared for the consultation. On the theme of koinonia (fellowship or communion) two papers were discussed: “An Evangelical Perspective on Church Koinonia” by Henri Blocher and “The Church as Communion: A Catholic Perspective,” by Avery Dulles. Later discussion of evangelization and common witness and their difficulties began on the basis of a paper by M. Daniel Carroll R., “The Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue: Issues Revolving around Evangelization. A View from Latin America” and one by Thomas Stransky, “Religious Freedom, Christian Witness and Proselytism.”
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Posted: Nov. 13, 1999 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2193
Categories: Communiqué, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • In this article: Catholic, dialogue, World Evangelical Alliance Transmis : 13 nov. 1999 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2193
Catégorie : Communiqué, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • Dans cet article : Catholic, dialogue, World Evangelical Alliance

Communiqué: Anglican-Lutheran International Working Group

The dialogue between Anglicans and Lutherans on the worldwide level has been underway in varying formats since 1970. Prominent among the reports produced by this dialogue are The Niagara Report (1987), focusing on the mission of the church and the role of the ordained ministry, and The Diaconate as an Ecumenical Opportunity (1995), which concluded the work of the Anglican-Lutheran International Commission.
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Posted: Feb. 16, 2000 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2271
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Anglican, Lutheran Transmis : 16 févr. 2000 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2271
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican, Lutheran

Statement by Dr Ishmael Noko on the Vatican document “Dominus Iesus”

Statement by Dr Ishmael Noko, General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation, on the Vatican document “Dominus Iesus” The Lutheran World Federation has received news of the document, “Dominus Iesus” – On the Unicity and Salvific Universality of Jesus Christ and the Church, published by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith of the
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Posted: Sept. 8, 2000 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=4718
Categories: Documents, ELCA News • In this article: Dominus Iesus, ecumenism, interfaith, salvation Transmis : 8 sept. 2000 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=4718
Catégorie : Documents, ELCA News • Dans cet article : Dominus Iesus, ecumenism, interfaith, salvation

Disappointment and dismay

Rev. Dr Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, has written to Cardinal Edward Cassidy, head of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, to express “disappointment and dismay” following the publication this week of Dominus Iesus, a declaration by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
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Posted: Sept. 9, 2000 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2248
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Dominus Iesus, World Communion of Reformed Churches Transmis : 9 sept. 2000 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2248
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Dominus Iesus, World Communion of Reformed Churches

Communiqué of the Global Christian Forum

Thirty representatives from throughout the world gathered from 9-11 September 2000 at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California, to explore the idea of a Global Christian Forum that would include a wide spectrum of churches and organisations. Those present came from Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Reformation Protestant, Pentecostal and Evangelical churches as well as Christian networks and
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Posted: Sept. 11, 2000 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=8943
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Global Christian Forum Transmis : 11 sept. 2000 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=8943
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Global Christian Forum

Joint communiqué: Reformed-Roman Catholic international dialogue

The joint commission, appointed by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity of the Roman Catholic Church and by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, held its annual session at Mondo Migliore in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, Italy, from September 13 to 19, 2000. This was the third session of the third round of this international bilateral dialogue. The report of the first round, 1970-1977, was entitled The Presence of Christ in Church and World, and that of the second, 1984-1989, Towards a Common Understanding of the Church.
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Posted: Sept. 19, 2000 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2249
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Catholic Transmis : 19 sept. 2000 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2249
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Catholic

2002 Joint Communiqué: Pentecostal-Reformed International Dialogue

Amsterdam – May 23, 2002: Delegates of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches met with representatives and leaders of some classical Pentecostal churches in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, May 16-23, 2002. This meeting started what is expected to be the second cycle of dialogue to which both groups have committed themselves in order to build upon areas of common faith and witness while seeking to overcome tensions in other aspects of church life. The report of the first round was published under the title “Word and Spirit, Church and World”, the theme of this cycle is “Experience in Christian Faith and Life”.
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Posted: May 23, 2002 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=37
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, Pentecostal, Reformed churches Transmis : 23 mai 2002 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=37
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, Pentecostal, Reformed churches

Common Declaration on Environmental Ethics

We are gathered here today in the spirit of peace for the good of all human beings and for the care of creation. At this moment in history, at the beginning of the third millennium, we are saddened to see the daily suffering of a great number of people from violence, starvation, poverty and disease. We are also concerned about the negative consequences for humanity and for all creation resulting from the degradation of some basic natural resources such as water, air and land, brought about by an economic and technological progress which does not recognize and take into account its limits.
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Posted: June 10, 2002 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=3473
Categories: Documents • In this article: Bartholomew I, Catholic, Christian unity, climate change, dialogue, ecology, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, environment, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope, science, statements Transmis : 10 juin 2002 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=3473
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Bartholomew I, Catholic, Christian unity, climate change, dialogue, ecology, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, environment, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope, science, statements

Catholic-Jewish statement on human life, family values

VATICAN CITY, MAR 4, 2003 (VIS) – After a preliminary meeting in Jerusalem on June 5, 2002, high ranking delegations of the Holy See’s Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews and of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel met in Grottaferrata near Rome, February 23-27, 2003, according to a joint communiqué made public yesterday afternoon
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Posted: Mar. 4, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=54
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Catholic, Judaism Transmis : 4 mars 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=54
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Catholic, Judaism

A Statement by the Primates of the Anglican Communion

The Primates of the Anglican Communion and the Moderators of the United Churches, meeting together at Lambeth Palace on the 15th and 16th October, 2003, wish to express our gratitude to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, for calling us together in response to recent events in the Diocese of New Westminster, Canada, and the Episcopal Church (USA), and welcoming us into his home so that we might take counsel together, and to seek to discern, in an atmosphere of common prayer and worship, the will and guidance of the Holy Spirit for the common life of the thirty-eight provinces which constitute our Communion.

At a time of tension, we have struggled at great cost with the issues before us, but have also been renewed and strengthened in our Communion with one another through our worship and study of the Bible. This has led us into a deeper commitment to work together, and we affirm our pride in the Anglican inheritance of faith and order and our firm desire to remain part of a Communion, where what we hold in common is much greater than that which divides us in proclaiming Good News to the world.
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Posted: Oct. 16, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=79
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Primates Meeting Transmis : 16 oct. 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=79
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Primates Meeting

Press statements from Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold and Archbishop Drexel Gomez

At the final press conference at the end of the Primates’ Meeting yesterday, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, USA, gave the following statement:

“I’d certainly like to underscore the Archbishop’s point about it being a difficult but truthful meeting. I think one thing that became very clear early on is that we seek to embody and proclaim the Gospel in very different contexts and what may, in fact, be good news to a majority in one province may, in fact, be bad news somewhere else in the world. And here I think particularly of my own province, the United States in which a majority, though not the whole province, has wrestled with the whole question of homosexuality for at least the last 30 years and come to a sense that men and women whose affections are ordered to members of the same sex are faithful members of the church; are people with whom we share ministry; are people we in many instances ordain, which of course has led to the confirmation of the election of the Bishop Elect of New Hampshire, which has caused such a division and certainly been one of the major focuses of our meeting here. But I do think what binds us together is deeper than some of the things that divide us and certainly the whole question of human sexuality; more particularly homosexuality; is far from settled and as we continue to struggle together I think it’s also important, as the Archbishop said, that we keep our focus on the mission we share because there is so much in the world that cries out for our attention beyond issues of human sexuality.
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Posted: Oct. 17, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9350
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, Episcopal Church, human sexuality, Primates Meeting Transmis : 17 oct. 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9350
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, Episcopal Church, human sexuality, Primates Meeting

For the Primates of the Anglican Communion from Bishop Griswold

I returned home from our meeting at Lambeth grateful for the spirit of candor in which we shared our thoughts and feelings. I thank God for the opportunity to come together in Christ’s name and for the strong bonds and mutual affection that exist between us. I pray that our common commitment to mission and God’s ongoing work of reconciliation will continue to bind us together in Christ in the days and years ahead. I remind myself that the church is not our possession but the risen body of Christ of which each one of us is a limb and member in virtue of our baptism.

As I tried to make plain in the course of our meeting, we in the Episcopal Church have been dealing openly with the place of homosexual persons in the life of our church for at least thirty years. Though the question still remains unresolved, the presence among us of deeply faithful men and women whose lives reveal the fruit of the Spirit, and whose primary affections are ordered to persons of the same sex, has brought us to this difficult, and very public, moment. I recognize that while many in our church give thanks for where we have come, many others are deeply pained and distressed. I further recognize how our decisions have also affected you and I hope you know how profoundly I regret the pain our Province’s action has caused many of you.
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Posted: Oct. 24, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9265
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, Episcopal Church, human sexuality, Primates Meeting Transmis : 24 oct. 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9265
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, Episcopal Church, human sexuality, Primates Meeting

Anglican Communion – Commission announced

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, has announced the makeup and the terms of reference for a Commission to look at life in the Anglican Communion in the light of recent events. It is to be made up of members appointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will be chaired by the Most Revd Robin Eames, Archbishop of Armagh.

The Commission, which is expected to begin its work early in the New Year, was formed as a result of a request from the recent Primates meeting at Lambeth Palace to the Archbishop of Canterbury. It will take particular account of the decision to authorise a service for use in connection with same sex unions in the Diocese of New Westminster, Canada, and the expected Consecration of the Revd Canon V Gene Robinson as Bishop Co-adjutor of New Hampshire in the Episcopal Church (USA) on Sunday, November 2nd.
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Posted: Oct. 28, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9335
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission Transmis : 28 oct. 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9335
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission

Communiqué of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission

The meeting of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission, which was to have taken place at Walsingham from Tuesday 28 October to Sunday 2 November 2003, has been postponed at the suggestion of the Heads of the Coptic Orthodox Church (His Holiness Pope Shenouda III), the Syrian Orthodox Church (His Holiness Patriarch Zakka I) and the Armenian Orthodox Church, Catholicosate of Cilicia (His Holiness Catholicos Aram I), who met in Antelias, Lebanon, on 17 and 18 October 2003.

The present time is clearly a moment of uncertainty in the life of the Anglican Communion, with the consecration of a homosexual person in a committed, same-sex relationship as a Bishop within the Episcopal Church (USA). The developments facing the Communion were addressed in the Statement of the Primates of the Anglican Communion who met together with the Moderators of the United Churches at Lambeth Palace, London, on 15 and 16 October, to consider their reactions and the way forward for the Communion. In the light of that meeting, the Archbishop of Canterbury has set up a Commission which will look at the future structures of the Communion in the light of decisions taken in the Episcopal Church (USA) and in the Anglican Church of Canada.
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Posted: Nov. 17, 2003 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9333
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, dialogue, human sexuality, Oriental Orthodox Transmis : 17 nov. 2003 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9333
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, dialogue, human sexuality, Oriental Orthodox

Caring for all Churches: ECUSA Letter on Alternative Pastoral Oversight

A response of the House of Bishops of the Episcopal Church to an expressed need of the Church Editor’s note: This is a pastoral letter responding to the need for alternative pastoral oversight in some dioceses of the Episcopal Church USA. Four important points should be noted: 1) the Bishops distinguish between pastoral oversight and
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Posted: Mar. 24, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=91
Categories: ACNS, Documents • In this article: Anglican, bishops, Episcopal Church, USA Transmis : 24 mars 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=91
Catégorie : ACNS, Documents • Dans cet article : Anglican, bishops, Episcopal Church, USA

Common celebration of Easter a gift, WCC work towards universal date will continue

WCC Press Release In an Easter message to member churches, World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia expresses his hope that “Christians throughout the world will join in prayer and celebration” as they celebrate Easter on the same date this year, an occurrence he considers a “real gift and blessing”. Though
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Posted: Apr. 8, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=96
Categories: Dialogue, WCC News • In this article: Easter, Samuel Kobia, WCC Transmis : 8 avril 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=96
Catégorie : Dialogue, WCC News • Dans cet article : Easter, Samuel Kobia, WCC

A WCC staff comment on Mel Gibson film

WCC News flash What should we do after seeing Mel Gibson’s film ‘The Passion of Christ’? That is the question being asked by Rev. Dr Hans Ucko, who specializes in Christian-Jewish dialogue at the World Council of Churches. He discusses the impact of our reactions to this controversial film in an opinion piece published in
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Posted: Apr. 8, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=97
Categories: Dialogue, WCC News • In this article: anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson, WCC Transmis : 8 avril 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=97
Catégorie : Dialogue, WCC News • Dans cet article : anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson, WCC

Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ

A statement from the Christian-Jewish Dialogue in Montreal Like all art works based on historical events, Mel Gibson’s film The Passion of the Christ may create the illusion that it faithfully reproduces the details of Jesus’ Passion with its cruelty and violence. Viewers may be left with the impression that without the Jews, these things
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Posted: Apr. 8, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=98
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson Transmis : 8 avril 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=98
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson

La Passion du Christ de Mel Gibson

Une déclaration du Dialogue Judéo-Chrétien de Montréal Comme toute oeuvre d’art basée sur des faits historiques, le film de Mel Gibson La Passion du Christ peut créer l’illusion qu’il reproduit fidèlement le moindre détail de la passion de Jésus, avec toute sa toute cruauté et sa violence. Les spectateurs pourraient rester sous l’impression que tout
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Posted: Apr. 8, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=99
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson Transmis : 8 avril 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=99
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : anti-semitism, Christian, Christianity, Judaism, Mel Gibson

Instruction: Redemptionis Sacramentum

Just released this morning at the Vatican. This instruction from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacrament is entitled Redemptionis Sacramentum.
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Posted: Apr. 23, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=104
Categories: Documents • In this article: Catholic, liturgy, Vatican Transmis : 23 avril 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=104
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Catholic, liturgy, Vatican

Joint Declaration by John Paul II and Bartholomew I

Here is a translation of the Joint Declaration signed by John Paul II and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople and published today.
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Posted: July 1, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2204
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Bartholomew I, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope Transmis : 1 juil. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2204
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Bartholomew I, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope

Déclaration commune : Pour un monde plus humain

Voici le texte intégral de la Déclaration commune signée par le pape Jean-Paul II et le patriarche œcuménique Bartholomaios Ier au terme de la visite de celui-ci au Vatican.
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Posted: July 1, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2205
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Bartholomew I, Christian unity, dialogue, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope Transmis : 1 juil. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2205
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Bartholomew I, Christian unity, dialogue, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, ecumenism, John Paul II, Orthodox, patriarch, pope

Statement by the Primate of Central Africa on the Windsor Report 2004

I welcome the publication of the Windsor Report. I was privileged to be part of the Lambeth Commission, and despite some very honest exchanges, we were able to come together as a Commission to offer what I believe represents a genuine way forward for the future of the Anglican Communion.

The report we have agreed now offers to our brothers and sisters in Christ very real ways in which we could begin to strengthen our common life in the Lord, and to strengthen the workings of the Instruments of Unity so that they will be able to function more effectively in drawing our forty-four churches into greater interdependence and mutual life.
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Posted: Oct. 18, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9343
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission Transmis : 18 oct. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9343
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission

Letter from Archbishop Eames to the Archbishop of Canterbury on the Windsor Report 2004

I have the honour to submit to you the Report of the Lambeth Commission on Communion, entitled ‘The Windsor Report 2004’. In the last twelve months, we have laboured hard and prayerfully listened to all shades of opinion across the Anglican Communion, and have been able to come to a common mind on a diagnosis for the current situation in the life of the Communion, and the remedies which could be offered.

We have made a remarkable journey. The Commission members had strongly held and differing opinions on both the presenting issues and their underlying causes, and we have not been afraid to discuss those views openly and honestly in our work. But equal to all of this is our central belief that the forty-four churches of the Anglican Communion belong together in witness and common mission for the sake of the Gospel, and this has helped us to develop a set of unanimous recommendations.
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Posted: Oct. 18, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9337
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission Transmis : 18 oct. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9337
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission

Statement on the Windsor Report 2004 from the Primate of All Nigeria

I welcome the sincerity and hard work of those who have prepared ‘The Windsor Report 2004‘. After an initial reading it is clear to me that the report falls far short of the prescription needed for this current crisis. It fails to confront the reality that a small, economically privileged group of people has sought to subvert the Christian faith and impose their new and false doctrine on the wider community of faithful believers. We have watched in sadness as sisters and brothers who have sought to maintain their allegiance to the faith once delivered to the saints have been marginalized and persecuted for their faith. We have been filled with grief as we have witnessed the decline of the North American Church that was once filled with missionary zeal and yet now seems determined to bury itself in a deadly embrace with the spirit of the age. Instead of a clear call for repentance we have been offered warm words of sentimentality for those who have shown no godly sorrow for their actions and harsh words of condemnation for those who have reached out a helping hand to friends in need of pastoral and spiritual care.
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Posted: Oct. 20, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9341
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission, Peter Akinola Transmis : 20 oct. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9341
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission, Peter Akinola

Statement by the Primates’ Standing Committee on the Windsor Report 2004

The Primates’ Standing Committee, meeting in London, between 18 and 20 October, 2004, received the Windsor Report at the same time that copies of the report were circulated to the Primates at 9.00am prior to its publication at 12 noon here in London.

We would like to begin by thanking Archbishop Robin Eames and his Commission, together with the staff who supported them, for the hard work and dedication which is represented by this document. The Commission members came from a wide range of geographical backgrounds, and brought many different perspectives to their work. That they have been able to commend this report unanimously to the members of the Anglican Communion is a sign of hope to our Communion. If there is a real desire to walk together in our discipleship of Christ, then a course can be plotted to maintain the highest degree of Communion possible, in spite of differences about the way in which Christ’s Gospel is to be interpreted in a diverse and troubled world.
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Posted: Oct. 20, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9339
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission Transmis : 20 oct. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9339
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission

Details of Windsor Report Reception Process announced

The Most Revd Peter Kwong, Primate of Hong Kong, today released the first details of the reception process being adopted by the Reception Reference Group appointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury in conjunction with the Primates’ Standing Committee on the 20 October this year, following the publication of the Windsor Report 2004 in London on 18 October.

Full details will be placed on the Anglican Communion web site in the coming week.

“There will be three major threads to the process that the group are adopting”, the Archbishop commented, “First, we shall be using the official channels of the Anglican Communion to undertake consultation with the provinces and churches of the Anglican Communion, its official commissions and networks. This will also include approaches to Anglican mission agencies and ecumenical partners.”
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Posted: Nov. 5, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9348
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, Windsor Process Transmis : 5 nov. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9348
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, Windsor Process

Episcopal Church of Burundi statement on the Windsor Report

The Episcopal Church of Burundi wishes to express appreciation for the Windsor Report, and to congratulate the Lambeth Commission that produced it. It is an interesting, coherent, and sensitive report that challenges the Communion to dialogue constructively as a way forward.

The Episcopal Church of Burundi remains totally committed to the Anglican Communion and will continue to endeavour to “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). We should always be mindful of the Gospel imperative to maintain unity and communion that is rooted in truth and love.
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Posted: Nov. 12, 2004 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9346
Categories: ACNS, Communiqué • In this article: Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission Transmis : 12 nov. 2004 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9346
Catégorie : ACNS, Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican Communion, human sexuality, Lambeth Commission

Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue back on track

According to a VIS report published May 13, 2005, the Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue will be back on track following next Monday’s release of a document on Mary. IARCCUM (pronounced “yar-come”) is the International Anglican-Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission. It was established after the Mississauga consultation between bishops of the two communions in 2000. It was intended to parallel the work of ARCIC II (the theological dialogue) with an emphasis on “communion in mission”, that is, to find ways that Anglicans and Roman Catholics can work together to reflect the current stage of our unity. IARCCUM’s mandate was detoured following the 2003 consecration of Gene Robinson and the New Westminster decision to bless same-sex unions.
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Posted: May 13, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=134
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary Transmis : 13 mai 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=134
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary

Catholics, Anglicans to present joint document on Mary

VATICAN CITY, MAY 13, 2005 (VIS) – The Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Anglican Communion Office announced in a communique today that the most recent report of the Anglican-Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC), entitled “Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ,” will be presented on May 16, 2005 in Seattle, U.S.A., where the
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Posted: May 13, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=135
Categories: Communiqué, Dialogue, Documents, Vatican News • In this article: ARCIC, Catholic, Mary Transmis : 13 mai 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=135
Catégorie : Communiqué, Dialogue, Documents, Vatican News • Dans cet article : ARCIC, Catholic, Mary

ARCIC’s method

As I have been reading various news reports, blogs, and editorials commenting upon the the new Anglican – Roman Catholic dialogue report on “Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ” I have been a little annoyed to hear critics repeat the same line again and again: that the “old ecumenism” is wishy washy. This is frequently contrasted with a proposed new ecumenism that would be committed to truth. What? Is the “old ecumenism” not committed to truth? The bulk of my annoyance stems from the fact that these critiques are not only rejecting the conclusions of the dialogues (a legitimate response), but also that they present the theologians and churches involved as insincere or unfaithful. Most of time these critiques stem from a general rejection of the ecumenical endeavour, not from any understanding of the content of the dialogues.
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Posted: May 28, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=137
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary Transmis : 28 mai 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=137
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary

Oasis – al-Waha – Nakhlistan

The review, Oasis/al-Waha/Nakhlistan, was launched on 7 March 2005 to promote an open and respectful dialogue with Islam, and to support Christian minorities in predominantly Muslim countries. Initially, Oasis will be published twice a year. Edited by a committee of experts from around the world, it is published in four editions: English-Arabic, English-Urdu, French-Arabic and
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Posted: June 30, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=139
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: interfaith, Islam Transmis : 30 juin 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=139
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : interfaith, Islam

Online texts for ARCIC’s Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ

The full text of Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ has been published on our website with the permission of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.

An Introduction to Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ, prepared by the Rev. Don Bolen, co-secretary of ARCIC II, and staff-person at the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and A Commentary by Jared Wicks, s.j. are available on the Vatican website; A commentary and study guide by Timothy Bradshaw is available on the Anglican Communion website.
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Posted: July 21, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=146
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary Transmis : 21 juil. 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=146
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, Mary

Presbyterians and Christian Reformed engage in dialogue

The Presbyterian Church in Canada (PCC) and the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRC) have begun a “bilateral conversation” at the invitation of the CRC. The PCC Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations committee reported to this summer’s General Assembly that the CRC have issued an invitation to “bilateral conversation, or dialogue, about issues of common
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Posted: July 21, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=150
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: Christian Reformed Church in North America, Presbyterian Church in Canada Transmis : 21 juil. 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=150
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : Christian Reformed Church in North America, Presbyterian Church in Canada

UCC considering a new statement of faith

The United Church of Canada is engaged in a study process towards the adoption of a new statement of faith. The proposed statement would not replace any existing document — the Basis of Union, the 1940 Statement of Faith, or A New Creed (1968) — but would supplement the existing statements. The study process, entitled
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Posted: July 28, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=152
Categories: Documents, News • In this article: statements of faith, United Church of Canada Transmis : 28 juil. 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=152
Catégorie : Documents, News • Dans cet article : statements of faith, United Church of Canada

World’s Religions after September 11: A Global Congress

A global gathering will be held in Montreal from 11-15 September 2006. The Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, which convened the meeting of the latest Parliament in Barcelona in 2004, has officially recognized this global congress as a Post-Parliament event. For detailed information visit the website of the Global Congress or contact
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Posted: Aug. 11, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=156
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: 9/11, events, interfaith, peace, security, world religions Transmis : 11 aoüt 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=156
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : 9/11, events, interfaith, peace, security, world religions

Une Réponse non violente à l’occupation israélienne?

Colloque international sur les investissements responsables
« Une Réponse non violente à l’occupation israélienne? »

Toronto, Ontario, 25-29 octobre 2005
Un rapport de voyage par Dr. Stuart Brown, Centre canadien d’œcuménisme
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Posted: Nov. 1, 2005 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2208
Categories: Communiqué Transmis : 1 nov. 2005 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2208
Catégorie : Communiqué

Methodist Catholic Relations 2006

When Pope Benedict met with representatives of the World Methodist Council in December of 2005, he alluded to the Speech of Pope Paul VI, noting that when we look back to the nearly 40 years of patient and persevering dialogue between Methodists and Catholics since the end of the Second Vatican Council, “there is much for which we can today give thanks”.
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Posted: Jan. 1, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=1979
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Catholic, Methodist Transmis : 1 janv. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=1979
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Catholic, Methodist

Communiqué: Anglican-Lutheran International Commission

The Third Anglican-Lutheran International Commission (ALIC) held its first meeting at the Lutheran Uhuru Hostel in Moshi, Tanzania, between 13th and 19th January, 2006, under the chairmanship of the Rt Revd Fred Hiltz, Anglican Bishop of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, and the Revd Dr Thomas Nyiwe, President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon.
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Posted: Jan. 19, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2273
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Anglican, Lutheran Transmis : 19 janv. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2273
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican, Lutheran

Devotion or division? Portraits of Mary in the Gospels of Luke & John

Scripturefest with Dr. Jo-Ann Badley at Queen’s House of Retreats (601 Taylor St. West, Saskatoon) January 21, 2006 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pre-registration required, $35. Co-sponsored by Queen’s House, RC Diocese of Saskatoon, and the Prairie Centre for Ecumenism.

Posted: Jan. 21, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=195
Categories: Dialogue, Resources • In this article: education, preaching, Scripture Transmis : 21 janv. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=195
Catégorie : Dialogue, Resources • Dans cet article : education, preaching, Scripture

Called to be the One Church: Porto Alegre ecclesiology text

1. We, the delegates to the Ninth Assembly of the World Council of Churches, give thanks to the Triune God, Father; Son and Holy Spirit, who has brought our churches into living contact and dialogue. By God’s grace we have been enabled to remain together, even when this has not been easy. Considerable efforts have been made to overcome divisions. We are “a fellowship of churches which confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the scriptures, and therefore seek to fulfil their common calling to the glory of the one God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”.³ We reaffirm that “the primary purpose of the fellowship of churches in the World Council of Churches is to call one another to visible unity in one faith and in one eucharistic fellowship expressed in worship and in common life in Christ, through witness and service to the world, and to advance towards that unity in order that the world may believe”.⁴ Our continuing divisions are real wounds to the body of Christ, and God’s mission in the world suffers.

2. Churches in the fellowship of the WCC remain committed to one another on the way towards full visible unity. This commitment is a gift from our gracious Lord. Unity is both a divine gift and calling. Our churches have affirmed that the unity for which we pray, hope, and work is “a koinonia given and expressed in the common confession of the apostolic faith; a common sacramental life entered by the one baptism and celebrated together in one eucharistic fellowship; a common life in which members and ministries are mutually recognised and reconciled; and a common mission witnessing to the gospel of God’s grace to all people and serving the whole of creation”.⁵ Such koinonia is to be expressed in each place, and through a conciliar relationship of churches in different places. We have much work ahead of us as together we seek to understand the meaning of unity and catholicity, and the significance of baptism.
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Posted: Feb. 23, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=9704
Categories: Documents • In this article: Christian unity, ecclesiology, WCC Assembly Transmis : 23 févr. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=9704
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Christian unity, ecclesiology, WCC Assembly

Le COE renforce le dialogue avec les catholiques et les pentecôtistes

Le Conseil œcuménique des Eglises (COE) a terminé son Assemblée, qui se tient tous les sept ans, par un appel à renforcer le dialogue avec les Eglises catholique romaine, pentecôtistes et évangéliques qui ne sont pas membres de l’organisation, dont le siège est à Genève.
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Posted: Mar. 6, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=213
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: 2006, Catholic, WCC Transmis : 6 mars 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=213
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : 2006, Catholic, WCC

WCC assembly wants closer moves to Catholics, Pentecostals

The World Council of Churches ended its once every seven years assembly held in Brazil with calls to reach out to Roman Catholic, Pentecostal and Evangelical churches that do not belong to the Geneva-based grouping.
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Posted: Mar. 6, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=214
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: 2006, Catholic, Christian unity, Pentecostal, WCC, WCC Assembly Transmis : 6 mars 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=214
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : 2006, Catholic, Christian unity, Pentecostal, WCC, WCC Assembly

Dirigeants d’églises canadiens ont fait appel au premier ministre en le VIH/SIDA

Monsieur le Premier ministre,

En tant que dirigeants nationaux d’Églises canadiennes et membres du Conseil canadien des Églises, nous sommes extrêmement préoccupés par l’impact humain de la pandémie du SIDA. Plus de 40 millions de personnes sont actuellement infectées par le VIH, tandis que l’an dernier, le SIDA faisait plus de 3 millions de victimes. Quinze millions d’enfants sont orphelins à cause du SIDA. Voilà des statistiques qui illustrent de façon éloquente le coût humain de ce fléau.

Notre première réaction à la gravité de cette tragédie en est une de compassion : nous souffrons avec ceux qui souffrent et nous travaillons à alléger leurs souffrances. Nous appuyons les nombreux membres de nos Églises qui se dévouent pour les personnes vivant avec le VIH et le SIDA.
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Posted: May 8, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=8676
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Canada, Canadian Council of Churches, HIV/AIDS, Stephen Harper Transmis : 8 mai 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=8676
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Canada, Canadian Council of Churches, HIV/AIDS, Stephen Harper

Canadian Church leaders letter to Prime Minister on HIV/AIDS

Dear Prime Minister Harper:

As national leaders of Canadian Churches and members of the Canadian Council of Churches, we are extremely concerned about the human impact of the global AIDS pandemic. Currently more than 40 million people are infected with HIV. Last year, over 3 million people died as a result of AIDS. There are 15 million child orphans because of AIDS. These statistics speak powerfully to the human cost.

Our first response to the depth of this tragedy is compassion. We suffer with those who suffer, and work to ease that suffering. We support the many members of our Churches who dedicate themselves to caring for persons living with HIV and AIDS.
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Posted: May 8, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=8674
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Canada, Canadian Council of Churches, HIV/AIDS, Stephen Harper Transmis : 8 mai 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=8674
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Canada, Canadian Council of Churches, HIV/AIDS, Stephen Harper

Religious coalition condemns violence against women

Dozens of religious leaders from a broad array of faiths have signed a declaration calling violence against women “morally, spiritually and universally intolerable.” “While as people of faith we hold divergent opinions on a wide range of issues, today we proclaim with one voice that violence against women exists in all our communities and is
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Posted: June 8, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=236
Categories: Documents • In this article: statements, violence, women Transmis : 8 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=236
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : statements, violence, women

WCC Annual Review 2005

Now available in electronic and printed format, the WCC Annual Review 2005 is an illustrated account of WCC programmes and activities over the year. The Annual Review also contains key information on WCC member churches, governing bodies, finances, publications and other resources.
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Posted: June 15, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=240
Categories: Documents, Resources, WCC News • In this article: WCC Transmis : 15 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=240
Catégorie : Documents, Resources, WCC News • Dans cet article : WCC

Compte rendu annuel 2005 du COE

Disponible maintenant sous forme électronique et imprimée (en anglais seulement), le document WCC Annual Review 2005 est un compte rendu illustré des programmes et activités du COE tout au long de l’année. Il contient également des informations de base sur les Eglises membres, les organes directeurs, les finances, les publications et autres documents du COE.
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Posted: June 15, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=241
Categories: Documents, Resources • In this article: WCC Transmis : 15 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=241
Catégorie : Documents, Resources • Dans cet article : WCC

Mary: a meeting place for Muslims and Christians

A prominent Italian newspaper editor has appealed to Muslims to visit Marian shrines in Italy. Reminding his readers that the Qu’ran devotes an entire sura to Mary, and that Muslims and Christians jointly venerate Marian shrines in Muslim countries, Magdi Allam is puzzled why more Muslims do not visit shrines in Christian countries. Allam, an
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Posted: June 29, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=243
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: interfaith, Islam, Mary Transmis : 29 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=243
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : interfaith, Islam, Mary

Farewell, Au Revoir, al-Salaamu

It is with a certain sense of loss that the Centre will bid farewell to its current director, Dr Stuart E. Brown and his wife, Margaret, at the end of June. They will be returning to Nigeria, Africa where Dr Brown has been offered a full professorship in the Department of Religious Studies at Abti University in the city of Yola. Margaret will accompany him to take up a position in the University Library, working in the area of Archives/Reference.
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Posted: June 30, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=244
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Canada, Centre Canadien d’œcuménisme, interfaith, Stuart Brown Transmis : 30 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=244
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Canada, Centre Canadien d’œcuménisme, interfaith, Stuart Brown

Au Revoir, Farewell, al-Salaamu

C’est avec un sentiment de regret que le Centre a appris le départ de son directeur actuel, le Dr Stuart Brown et de son épouse, Margaret, à la fin de juin. Ils retourneront au Nigeria, en Afrique, où le Dr Brown s’est vu offrir une chaire au département d’études religieuses de l’université Abti à Yola. Margaret l’y accompagnera et occupera un poste au département des archives de la bibliothèque de l’université.
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Posted: June 30, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=245
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Canada, Islam, Stuart Brown Transmis : 30 juin 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=245
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Canada, Islam, Stuart Brown

Methodists affirm Joint Declaration with Lutherans and Catholics

During the summer months ecumenical news dries up as church leaders, pastors, and theologians head off on their holiday plans. However, this year a very significant event occurred while we were all at the lake. Since 2001, Methodists have expressed appreciation for the Lutheran-Roman Catholic “Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification” (JDDJ). Not long after the formal affirmation of the JDDJ, representatives of the Methodist World Council and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches gathered with the two signatories to discuss the possibilities of expanding the consensus to include their constituencies. This summer, on July 23, the World Methodist Conference, a gathering of 76 churches in the Methodist tradition, affirmed the Joint Declaration in a signing ceremony together with Lutheran and Roman Catholic representatives.
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Posted: Aug. 5, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=253
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: Catholic, Christian unity, JDDJ, Lutheran, Methodist, statements Transmis : 5 aoüt 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=253
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : Catholic, Christian unity, JDDJ, Lutheran, Methodist, statements

Church Leaders call for Immediate Ceasefire in Middle East

Church leaders and inter-church organizations around the world have been speaking out about the current crisis in the Middle East, and despite differences in perspective, are urging an immediate ceasefire.
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Posted: Aug. 12, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=254
Categories: Documents, Resources, WCC News • In this article: church leaders, Israel, Lebanon, Middle East, Palestine, peace, statements Transmis : 12 aoüt 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=254
Catégorie : Documents, Resources, WCC News • Dans cet article : church leaders, Israel, Lebanon, Middle East, Palestine, peace, statements

Ecumenical Centres call for Immediate Ceasefire in Middle East

The Canadian Centre for Ecumenism and the Prairie Centre for Ecumenism join church leaders and inter-church organizations around the world in urging an immediate cessation of hostilities in the conflict between Israel and Hezbullah. The CCE‘s new Executive Director Anthony Mansour and the Associate Director Adèle Brodeur write: “We call for an immediate implementation of
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Posted: Aug. 12, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=255
Categories: Documents, News • In this article: Centre Canadien d’œcuménisme, Israel, Lebanon, Middle East, Palestine, peace, Prairie Centre for Ecumenism, statements Transmis : 12 aoüt 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=255
Catégorie : Documents, News • Dans cet article : Centre Canadien d’œcuménisme, Israel, Lebanon, Middle East, Palestine, peace, Prairie Centre for Ecumenism, statements

De retour du Moyen Orient, la délégation œcuménique fait part des préoccupations des Eglises

“Pourquoi une destruction si épouvantable?” C’est la question que les membres d’une délégation pastorale œcuménique n’ont cessé d’entendre à propos des attaques israéliennes contre le Liban.

Chargée par le Conseil œcuménique des Eglises (COE), la Conférence des Eglises européennes (KEK), la Fédération luthérienne mondiale (FLM) et l’Alliance réformée mondiale (ARM) d’exprimer la solidarité du monde œcuménique envers les Eglises et les populations touchées par le conflit au Moyen Orient, la délégation est rentrée avec pour mandat de transmettre à la famille œcuménique internationale les espoirs et les attentes des Eglises du Liban, de Palestine et d’Israël.
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Posted: Aug. 18, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=257
Categories: Communiqué, WCC News • In this article: Israel, Libya, Middle East, Palestine, peace, violence, WCC Transmis : 18 aoüt 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=257
Catégorie : Communiqué, WCC News • Dans cet article : Israel, Libya, Middle East, Palestine, peace, violence, WCC

Adventists and Evangelicals Meet in Dialogue

Representatives of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church and the World Evangelical Alliance met in dialogue August 8-11, 2006 on the campus of the International Baptist Theological Seminary, located in Prague, Czech Republic. Although informal contacts had occurred during the past 50 years, this was the first official meeting of the two groups. The purposes of the dialogue were to gain a clearer understanding of the theological positions of each body; to clarify matters of misunderstanding; to discuss frankly areas of agreement and disagreement on a Biblical basis; and to explore possible areas of cooperation.
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Posted: Sept. 1, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=261
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: Evangelicals, Seventh-day Adventist, World Evangelical Alliance Transmis : 1 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=261
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : Evangelicals, Seventh-day Adventist, World Evangelical Alliance

Adventistes et évangéliques se rencontrent lors d’un dialogue

(Prague, République tchèque — WEA/APD) Des représentants de l’Eglise adventiste du septième jour au niveau mondial et de l’Alliance Mondiale Évangélique (WEA) se sont rencontrés pour un dialogue du 8 au 11 août 2006 sur le campus du Séminaire baptiste international, situé à Prague, République tchèque. Bien que des contacts informels aient eu lieu au cours des 50 dernières années, c’était la première rencontre officielle de ces deux groupes. Les objectifs de ce dialogue étaient : d’arriver à une compréhension plus claire despositions théologiques de chacun de ces groupes ; de clarifier des malentendus ; de discuter avec franchise et sur une base biblique les points d’accord et de désaccord ; et d’explorer des domaines possibles de collaboration.
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Posted: Sept. 4, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=262
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: Evangelicals, Seventh-day Adventist, World Evangelical Alliance Transmis : 4 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=262
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : Evangelicals, Seventh-day Adventist, World Evangelical Alliance

Canterbury and Chief Rabbis sign historic agreement

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams and the Chief Rabbis of Israel, Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar and Chief Rabbi Yonah Metzger today signed a joint Declaration which sets out a framework for continuing dialogue between them. Dr Williams described the agreement as historic: “This is a most significant step in developing better mutual understanding and trust between the Anglican Communion and the Chief Rabbinate and worldwide Judaism.”
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Posted: Sept. 5, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=263
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, Church of England, interfaith, Israel, Judaism, Palestine, statements Transmis : 5 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=263
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, Church of England, interfaith, Israel, Judaism, Palestine, statements

World’s Religions after September 11: A Global Congress

A global gathering will be held in Montreal from 11-15 September 2006. The Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, which convened the meeting of the latest Parliament in Barcelona in 2004, has officially recognized this global congress as a Post-Parliament event. For detailed information visit the website of the Global Congress or contact
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Posted: Sept. 11, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=264
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, interfaith Transmis : 11 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=264
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, interfaith

Anglican-Muslim dialogue affirms religious freedom

The recent controversy over cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed has exposed a disagreement between Western secular democracies and the Muslim community over appropriate limits on public expression. Agreement on when or whether there should be limits on free speech remains elusive. Such an agreement appears to be developing between Anglicans and Muslims, at least if a report released today is accurate. In a dialogue meeting last week between delegates of the Anglican Communion and the Al-Azhar Al-Sharif Permanent Committee for Dialogue with Monotheistic Religions, the participants reportedly found consensus on the right to comprehensive religious freedom and on the related problem of limiting public expression.
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Posted: Sept. 13, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=265
Categories: Communiqué, Dialogue, News • In this article: Anglican, cartoon controversy, interfaith, Islam Transmis : 13 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=265
Catégorie : Communiqué, Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : Anglican, cartoon controversy, interfaith, Islam

ARC forum on Mary – Sept 28

The Anglican Roman Catholic Dialogue of Canada invites you to attend a forum on the ARCIC Agreed Statement “Mary, Grace and Hope in Christ” on Thursday, September 28, 2006, 7:30 pm at Montreal Diocesan College, 3473 University St., Montreal. Presentations and responses will be given by two members of the dialogue: Dr. Catherine Clifford, Professor of Theology, St. Paul University, Ottawa and the Rev’d Canon Kevin Flynn, Director of Anglican Studies, St. Paul University, Ottawa. Discussion and refreshments to follow with presenters and other members of the Anglican Roman Catholic Dialogue of Canada.
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Posted: Sept. 14, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=266
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Canada, Catholic, Christian unity, Mary Transmis : 14 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=266
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Canada, Catholic, Christian unity, Mary

Forum de l’ARC sur Marie – 28 septembre

Le dialogue Anglican Catholique du Canada (ARC-Canada) tient un forum sur le rapport d’ARCIC « Marie : grâce et espérance dans le Christ » le jeudi 28 septembre 2006 à 19:30h chez Montreal Diocesan College, 3473 rue University, Montreal. Des présentations et les réponses seront données par Dr. Cathy Clifford, professeure de la théologie à l’Université Saint-Paul, Ottawa et le révérend Canon Kevin Flynn, directeur des études Anglican à l’Université Saint-Paul, Ottawa. Après les présentations, joindre svp les présentateurs et d’autres membres du l’ARC-Canada pour la discussion et les rafraîchissements.
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Posted: Sept. 15, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=267
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Canada, Catholic Transmis : 15 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=267
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Canada, Catholic

Evangelicals & Catholics Together in a culture of life

A new statement has been published by Evangelicals and Catholics Together, an ad-hoc group of theologians and church leaders headed by Charles Colson and Richard John Neuhaus. This text, entitled “That They May Have Life,” is the sixth statement issued by ECT since 1994. In their most recent offering, ECT returns its focus to public policy, morality, and the so-called “culture wars.” Seeking to promote dialogue within the US on the “culture of life,” the group affirms that they share common interests and concerns with those who oppose them. These include a common interest in the American experiment and a common humanity with its God-given capacity for reason. The text, which has the tone of a pastoral letter, appears to be interested in a dialogue between secular culture and Christians.

While this latest document is to be welcomed for its clear articulation of certain aspects of the “culture of life,” and for the continuing efforts of Evangelicals and Roman Catholics to speak together on issues of shared concern, it is disappointing for many of the same reasons that the first ECT statement was criticized. There is very little contribution made here to the ecumenical rapprochement between Evangelicals and Roman Catholics. Many of the issues that the participants agreed upon in this statement will divide them from others within their own churches. This statement will likely be received as just another contribution to the abortion debate by the Religious Right. To me, it seems like like they weren’t reaching high enough.
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Posted: Sept. 20, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=268
Categories: Dialogue, Documents, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • In this article: Catholic, Christian unity, Evangelicals, Evangelicals and Catholics Together Transmis : 20 sept. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=268
Catégorie : Dialogue, Documents, Evangelical-Roman Catholic Dialogue • Dans cet article : Catholic, Christian unity, Evangelicals, Evangelicals and Catholics Together

Open Letter to Pope Benedict XVI

Open Letter to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI by 38 Leading Muslim Scholars and Leaders.
In an unprecedented move, an open letter signed by 38 leading Muslim religious scholars and leaders around the world was sent to Pope Benedict XVI on Oct. 12, 2006. The letter, which is the outcome of a joint effort, was signed by top religious authorities. All the eight schools of thought and jurisprudence in Islam are represented by the signatories, including a woman scholar. In this respect the letter is unique in the history of interfaith relations.
The letter was sent, in a spirit of goodwill, to respond to some of the remarks made by the Pope during his lecture at the University of Regensburg on Sept. 12, 2006. The letter tackles the main substantive issues raised in his treatment of a debate between the medieval Emperor Manuel II Paleologus and an “educated Persian”, including reason and faith; forced conversion; “jihad” vs. “holy war”; and the relationship between Christianity and Islam. They engage the Pope on an intellectual level concerning these crucial topics–which go well beyond the controversial quotation of the emperor–pointing out what they see as mistakes and oversimplifications in the Pope’s own remarks about Islamic belief and practice.
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Posted: Oct. 21, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=273
Categories: Dialogue, Documents • In this article: Benedict XVI, interfaith, Islam, Joseph Ratzinger, statements Transmis : 21 oct. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=273
Catégorie : Dialogue, Documents • Dans cet article : Benedict XVI, interfaith, Islam, Joseph Ratzinger, statements

Lutheran-Orthodox statement on Eucharist

[LWI] The participants of the 13th Plenary of the international Lutheran-Orthodox Joint Commission have affirmed recognition of the “broad areas of agreement” in their respective traditions with a view to the understanding of the Eucharist in the life of the church. They adopted a Common Statement titled, “The Mystery of the Church: The Holy Eucharist in the Life of the Church.” In a communiqué from the 2-9 November meeting of the Joint Commission in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, members of the international dialogue group stated that the “Orthodox and Lutherans both confess that Christ’s body and blood are united with bread and wine, to be consumed by communicants, uniting them with Christ and with each other.”
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Posted: Dec. 12, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=280
Categories: Communiqué, Dialogue, Documents • In this article: ecclesiology, eucharist, Lutheran, Orthodox Transmis : 12 déc. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=280
Catégorie : Communiqué, Dialogue, Documents • Dans cet article : ecclesiology, eucharist, Lutheran, Orthodox

Russian Orthodox churches to reconcile

The Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) has agreed to reconcile with the Moscow Patriarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church. The schism developed following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, and has led to the establishment of parallel jurisdictions of Russian Orthodoxy in the diaspora. The talks between ROCOR and the Moscow Patriarchate began in 2001. The reconciliation between the two church bodies is expected to occur in May 2007 when the Synod of the Moscow Patriarchate adopts the “Act of Canonical Communion” already approved by the ROCOR Synod of Bishops. The two church bodies express the hope that: “The reestablishment of canonical communion will serve, God willing, towards the strengthening of the unity of the Church of Christ, of her witness in the contemporary world, promoting the fulfillment of the will of the Lord to “gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad” (John 11:52).
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Posted: Dec. 17, 2006 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=281
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Christian unity, Moscow Patriarchate, Orthodox, ROCOR, Russian, statements Transmis : 17 déc. 2006 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=281
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Christian unity, Moscow Patriarchate, Orthodox, ROCOR, Russian, statements

Des Églises proposent de jouer les médiateurs

Des responsables d’Eglise de Jérusalem ont averti les factions palestiniennes en conflit qu’elles risquaient de déclencher une guerre civile et, proposant de jouer les médiateurs, ils les ont exhortés à mettre fin à la violence afin de pouvoir se concentrer sur la priorité absolue de leur peuple : l’indépendance. En tant que responsables des Eglises chrétiennes à Jérusalem préoccupés par la situation actuelle dans les territoires palestiniens, nous tenons à exprimer nos craintes pour nos populations, qu’elles soient chrétiennes ou musulmanes, en raison de la détérioration des relations entre les leaders du Fatah et du Hamas et entre leurs forces armées,” ont-ils déclaré.
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Posted: Jan. 17, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=285
Categories: Communiqué, ENI • In this article: 2007, Jerusalem, Palestine, peace Transmis : 17 janv. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=285
Catégorie : Communiqué, ENI • Dans cet article : 2007, Jerusalem, Palestine, peace

Mary & the Eucharist — an ecumenical presentation

An ecumenical panel will give a presentation on Sunday, February 25th on the topics of “The role of Mary in the Church” and the “Understanding of the Eucharist.” The controversial issues have been the subject of extensive ecumenical dialogue over the past 40 years. The Keynote speakers are the Rev. Canon Colin Clay (Anglican), Marie-Louise Ternier-Gommers (Roman Catholic), and Bishop Allan Grundahl (Lutheran). The panel will present at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 25, 2007 at St. Philip Neri Roman Catholic Parish, at the corner of Taylor Avenue and Munroe Street. This event is sponsored by St. Philip Neri Parish, St. Timothy Anglican Church, and Redeemer Lutheran Church.
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Posted: Feb. 25, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=296
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: events, Saskatoon, workshop Transmis : 25 févr. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=296
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : events, Saskatoon, workshop

Report sets stage for closer relations between Catholics, Anglicans

Church unity hasn’t happened yet, but Catholics and Anglicans have a new list of concrete suggestions for ways to bring the two churches closer. A joint commission of Catholic and Anglican bishops has produced a 42-page report which aims “to bridge the gap between the elements of faith we hold in common and the tangible expression of that shared belief in our ecclesial lives.” The result of work by theologians and bishops in North America, Europe and Australia, Growing Together in Unity and Mission summarizes the agreements reached in 40 years of Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue, setting out common belief in the Trinity, the church as communion in mission, Scripture, Baptism, Eucharist, ministry, authority in the church, discipleship and holiness, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. It also sets out in eight boxed sections areas of disagreement. The disagreements take up 15 of the 126 numbered paragraphs in the document.
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Posted: Apr. 13, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=7005
Categories: Catholic Register, Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, IARCCUM, mission, witness Transmis : 13 avril 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=7005
Catégorie : Catholic Register, Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, IARCCUM, mission, witness

Communiqué: Anglican-Lutheran International Commission

The Third Anglican-Lutheran International Commission (ALIC) held its second meeting at White Point, Nova Scotia, Canada between 14 and 20 May, 2007, under the chairmanship of the Rt Rev. Fred Hiltz, Anglican Bishop of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, and the Rev. Dr Thomas Nyiwé, President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cameroon.
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Posted: May 20, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2255
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Anglican, Lutheran Transmis : 20 mai 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2255
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican, Lutheran

Communiqué: Lutheran-Mennonite International Study Commission

The third meeting of the Lutheran-Mennonite International Study Commission took place from 18 to 22 June 2007 at the Institute for Ecumenical Research in Strasbourg, France.
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Posted: June 22, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2257
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Lutheran Transmis : 22 juin 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2257
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Lutheran

Pope encourages Latin Mass

On Saturday, Pope Benedict XVI issued a motu proprio entitled Summorum Pontificum, on the use of the 1962 Latin Mass. The document has been widely expected for some months now.
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Posted: July 7, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=334
Categories: Documents, News • In this article: Benedict XVI, Catholic, eucharist Transmis : 7 juil. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=334
Catégorie : Documents, News • Dans cet article : Benedict XVI, Catholic, eucharist

The Apostolicity of the Church: Lutheran-Roman Catholic Commission

The Apostolicity of the Church is the title of the current study document of the Lutheran-Roman Catholic Commission on Unity. With this document, the Commission completes the 1995-2006 fourth phase of the Lutheran-Catholic dialogue at the global level. The study document of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity (PCPCU) is aimed at contributing toward deepening communion between the Roman Catholic Church and Lutheran churches. The document has been sent to the respective churches of the mandating bodies and to the wider public of persons and groups engaged in the ecumenical movement.
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Posted: July 13, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2261
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: apostolicity, Catholic, dialogue, ecumenism, Lutheran Transmis : 13 juil. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2261
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : apostolicity, Catholic, dialogue, ecumenism, Lutheran

Lutheran-Reformed dialogue plans study on understanding of church

Theologians from the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) participating in the second meeting of the Lutheran-Reformed Joint Commission agreed to the need for further study on the understanding of the Church from the perspectives of the two faith traditions.
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Posted: Aug. 29, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=2256
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Lutheran Transmis : 29 aoüt 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=2256
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Lutheran

The Vatican on the subsistence of the church of Christ

This past summer, the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) issued a statement entitled “Responses to Some Questions Regarding Certain Aspects of the Doctrine on the Church.” This document immediately attracted attention, comment, spin, appreciation, and criticism from around the world. The document contains five questions and the responses of the CDF, with very little additional comment. The focus of the questions is the meaning of the word “subsists” as it appears in Vatican II’s Dogmatic Constitution on the Church (Lumen Gentium), article 8. The council declared that the one Church of Christ “constituted and organized in the world as a society, subsists in the Catholic Church, which is governed by the successor of Peter and by the Bishops in communion with him, although many elements of sanctification and of truth are found outside of its visible structure. These elements, as gifts belonging to the Church of Christ, are forces impelling toward catholic unity.”

Much of the criticism of the document has come from within the Catholic community, although notable critiques have also been issued by ecumenical partners. The criticism has addressed the exclusivity with which the new CDF document interprets the word “subsists”, and the insistence of the CDF that other churches are thereby deficient. The responses to the document were more careful and nuanced than those made in 2000 to Dominus Iesus, but many observers connected the two documents, seeing the new text as little more than a re-articulation of the earlier problematic statements.

After considerable thought about whether there was anything further productive to say about the document and the controversy stirred up this summer, I have decided to share some of my initial reflections in the days following the publication of the “responsa.” There are numerous additional perspectives that could be offered, many of which are available online.
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Posted: Sept. 15, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=347
Categories: Documents • In this article: Catholic, Christian unity, church, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Levada, Vatican Transmis : 15 sept. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=347
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Catholic, Christian unity, church, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Levada, Vatican

Anglicans & Catholics growing together in unity & mission

An agreed statement entitled “Growing Together in Unity & Mission” was released today by the Anglican Communion Office and the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. The statement attempts to foster discussion and reflection on the work of the Anglican-Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC) over the past 40 years. However, the statement insists, “it is more than this: it is a call for action, based upon an honest appraisal of what has been achieved in our dialogue. Despite our present ‘imperfect communion’, there is, we feel, enough common ground to take seriously how we work together.”
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Posted: Sept. 15, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=348
Categories: Dialogue, Documents • In this article: Anglican, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, IARCCUM, statements Transmis : 15 sept. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=348
Catégorie : Dialogue, Documents • Dans cet article : Anglican, Catholic, Christian unity, dialogue, ecumenism, IARCCUM, statements

An Interchurch Family response to IARCCUM

A new response to the International Anglican-Roman Catholic Commission on Unity and Mission (IARCCUM) report entitled “Growing Together in Unity and Mission: Building on 40 years of Anglican-Roman Catholic Dialogue” has been published by Ruth Reardon from the Interchurch Families International Network (IFIN). Reardon’s response is published in the October issue of the IFIN newsletter, “Issues and Reflections.”

The recent agreed statement between the two churches represents the first practical results of the Mississauga meeting in 2000 that charged the new commission with the task “to oversee the preparation of a Joint Declaration of Agreement, and promote and monitor the reception of ARCIC agreements, as well as facilitate the development of strategies for translating the degree of spiritual communion that has been achieved into visible and practical outcomes.” (#12) In Reardon’s response, she assesses the new statement in light of the mandate issued to IARCCUM by the bishops meeting in Mississauga.
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Posted: Oct. 22, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=356
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, IARCCUM, interchurch families, statements Transmis : 22 oct. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=356
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, ARCIC, Catholic, IARCCUM, interchurch families, statements

23rd Annual Festival of Faith: Side by Side in Faith

The 23rd annual Festival of Faith will be held on Sunday, October 28th at 2 p.m. This year’s theme is “Side by Side in Faith.” The Congregation Agudus Israel (715 McKinnon Ave.) will again host the religious community of Saskatoon for this important festival.

Come join in Saskatoon’s multi-faith expression of its spiritual traditions expressed through speech, music, and dance – a celebration for all ages brought together from the four corners of the earth! Free admission. Refreshments served.
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Posted: Oct. 28, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=360
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: events, Festival of Faith, interfaith, multifaith, prayer, Saskatoon Transmis : 28 oct. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=360
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : events, Festival of Faith, interfaith, multifaith, prayer, Saskatoon

Un rassemblement chrétien “historique” appelle au dialogue

Réunis au Kenya, des responsables issus de toutes les principales traditions chrétiennes et provenant de différents pays – de l’Arménie au Zimbabwe – ont promis d’organiser des réunions aux niveaux international, régional et local afin d’aller plus loin dans la réconciliation et la compréhension.

“Reconnaissant que l’unité est le tout premier don de Dieu à travers l’oeuvre du Saint-Esprit, nous nous engageons à promouvoir davantage de compréhension et de coopération entre chrétiens, tout en respectant la diversité de nos identités, traditions et dons individuels”, ont déclaré les responsables dans un communiqué publié à l’issue de la réunion, qui s’est tenue du 6 au 9 novembre.
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Posted: Nov. 12, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=379
Categories: Communiqué, News Transmis : 12 nov. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=379
Catégorie : Communiqué, News

De la nature sacramentale de l’Église

Aujourd’hui a été publié le Document final de l’Assemblée plénière de la Commission internationale pour le dialogue théologique catholiques orthodoxes (Ravenne, Italie, 8-14 octobre), qui avait été présidée par le Métropolite Ioannis de Pergame (Patriarcat œcuménique) et le Cardinal Kasper, Président du Conseil pontifical pour l’unité des chrétiens: “Conséquences ecclésiologiques et canoniques de la nature sacramentale de l’Eglise. Communion ecclésiale, conciliarité et autorité”.
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Posted: Nov. 15, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=383
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Catholic, Orthodox Transmis : 15 nov. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=383
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Catholic, Orthodox

Catholic-Orthodox document on the Nature of the Church

Made public today was the final document of the plenary assembly of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The meeting was held in the Italian city of Ravenna from October 8 to 14 under the presidency of Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, and His Excellency Ioannis, metropolitan of Pergamo. [Editor’s note: Ioannis of Pergamo is also known to theologians as John Zizioulas]

The title of the final document is: “Ecclesiological and Canonical Consequences of the Sacramental Nature of the Church. Ecclesial Communion, Conciliarity and Authority.”
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Posted: Nov. 15, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=384
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Catholic, Orthodox Transmis : 15 nov. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=384
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Catholic, Orthodox

Anglican-Lutheran communiqué, November 2007

From Nov. 22 to 25, the Joint Anglican-Lutheran Commission met in Toronto to review the Full Communion relationship between the Anglican Church of Canada and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. The two churches have shared this unique relationship since the Waterloo Declaration of 2001, and now, six years later, they are assessing what they’ve accomplished and where they can go.
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Posted: Nov. 26, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=386
Categories: Communiqué • In this article: Anglican, Canada, Lutheran Transmis : 26 nov. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=386
Catégorie : Communiqué • Dans cet article : Anglican, Canada, Lutheran

Benedict XVI responds to 138 Muslim leaders

At the the end of the Muslim month of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr), a group of 138 Muslim religious leaders sent an open letter to the Holy Father Benedict XVI and to other Christian leaders. The letter dated October 13, 2007 was entitled: “A Common Word between Us and You.”

On November 19, Pope Benedict XVI replied to the 138 Muslim leaders with a letter signed by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican Secretary of State, and addressed to Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad bin Talal, president of the Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought and one of the signatories of the original letter.

The letter was published in English in the November 30th edition of L’Osservatore Romano. The letter is as follows:
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Posted: Nov. 29, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=388
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Islam, Vatican Transmis : 29 nov. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=388
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Islam, Vatican

Doctrinal note on some aspects of evangelization

[Vatican City, VIS] A “Doctrinal Note on some aspects of evangelization” prepared by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith was made public today. Accompanying the publication is an English-language summary outlining the main points of the new document.
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Posted: Dec. 14, 2007 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=394
Categories: Documents • In this article: Catholic, doctrine, evangelism/evangelization, Vatican Transmis : 14 déc. 2007 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=394
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Catholic, doctrine, evangelism/evangelization, Vatican

A source of joy: Sacramental sharing in Saskatoon

It is a source of joy that Catholic pastors may, in particular circumstances, administer the sacraments of Eucharist, Reconciliation, and Anointing of the Sick to Christians who are not in full communion with the Catholic Church. On such occasions, we acknowledge the importance of the sacrament as a source of grace for all the baptized.

On December 16, 2007, Bishop Albert LeGatt of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon announced the release of Pastoral Directives for Sacramental Sharing between Catholics and Baptized Christians of Other Denominations. The Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity has reviewed the Directives and found them worthy.

The Pastoral Directives were created to bring awareness to both clergy and laypeople of the occasions when sacramental sharing is possible. Bishop LeGatt desires a sound pastoral and consistent response across the diocese to requests for sacramental sharing.

Saskatoon Diocesan Commission for Ecumenism

For further reading and understanding of the Pastoral Directives, please review the following resources:

• Bishop Albert LeGatt’s letter (December 16, 2007)
• Pastoral Directives (revised February 13, 2007) [PDF 99 Kb]
• Directives Pastorales (13 février 2007) [PDF 94 Kb]
• Pastoral Notes (January 31, 2005) [PDF 67 Kb]
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Posted: Feb. 2, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=421
Categories: Documents • In this article: Catholic, eucharist, Saskatoon Transmis : 2 févr. 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=421
Catégorie : Documents • Dans cet article : Catholic, eucharist, Saskatoon

Appel pour un réel processus de paix en Afghanistan

[CECC Communiqués] Dans un message rendu public aujourd’hui, Mgr V. James Weisgerber, président de la Conférence des évêques catholiques du Canada, se fait le porte-parole de ses confères évêques en réclamant qu’un réel débat porte sur la présence et la mission canadiennes. Il souhaite que ce débat se concentre sur les enjeux fondamentaux qui affligent le peuple afghan.

Selon lui, les membres du parlement du Canada, au moment de leurs délibérations, devraient toujours garder en tête le souhait le plus cher des Afghans et de toute population : la paix. « Les considérations d’ordre politique ou électoral sont secondaires lorsqu’il s’agit de l’avenir d’un peuple et de vies humaines. Nous invitons les parlementaires à mettre de côté leurs positions préétablies et à reconnaître que la vérité est à rechercher ensemble. La diversité des points de vue doit être accueillie comme une richesse possible pour l’élaboration d’un plan d’action concret et positif, mais dont le but ultime est l’établissement de la paix », a-t-il déclaré.

Se référant au Rapport Manley, le Président de la CECC affirme que les autorités gouvernementales doivent faire preuve d’une plus grande transparence auprès de la population. « Une information plus complète et de meilleure qualité de la part de notre gouvernement permettrait aux citoyens et citoyennes de notre pays de mieux comprendre le but, les enjeux, les modalités du conflit en Afghanistan et de mieux évaluer l’engagement de nos forces armées et des organismes humanitaires canadiens. Cette information est essentielle si l’on veut ensemble prendre des décisions qui permettront de faire progresser une paix réelle et durable dans ce pays. »

S’il avoue que la situation est très complexe, Mgr Weisgerber reprend les propos du pape Benoît XVI afin d’étayer son argumentation : « La guerre est la pire des solutions pour tous. Elle n’apporte rien de bon, pour personne, pas même pour ses apparents vainqueurs. »

Pour le Président de la CECC, la voix que les évêques font entendre aujourd’hui s’appuie sur un riche enseignement de l’Église catholique en matière de doctrine sociale. Il en souligne particulièrement trois éléments : des négociations de paix, réalisées de bonne foi et qui impliquent toutes les parties en présence; une nette distinction entre les opérations militaires et l’aide humanitaire; et, une protection de la dignité humaine des soldats canadiens.

Enfin, c’est aussi par la prière que Mgr Weisgerber enjoint les croyants à se joindre à lui afin « que le peuple afghan retrouve la paix et la sécurité; que les familles des soldats qui ont donné leur vie trouvent la consolation; que nos soldats et leurs familles se retrouvent bientôt rassemblés; que nos dirigeants politiques tiennent un débat sérieux qui permettra aux Canadiens et aux Canadiennes de décider du rôle du Canada en Afghanistan. »

• Message de Mgr V. James Weisegerber « Appel pour un réel processus de paix en Afghanistan » www.cccb.ca/site/content/view/2567/1152/lang,frc/
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Posted: Feb. 13, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=428
Categories: Communiqué Transmis : 13 févr. 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=428
Catégorie : Communiqué

CECC : une lettre pastorale sur l’environnement

CECC : une lettre pastorale sur l’environnement

(CECC – Ottawa) – Dans le cadre de l’Année de la planète terre, telle que proclamée par les Nations Unies, la Conférence des évêques catholiques du Canada (CECC) vient de publier une lettre pastorale dans laquelle elle en appelle à la conscience collective face aux graves problèmes environnementaux qui frappent la planète.

Produite par la Commission épiscopale des affaires sociales, la lettre pastorale a comme titre : « Notre rapport à l’environnement : le besoin d’une conversion ».

Les auteurs de la lettre ne manquent de souligner qu’en dépit des importants engagements pris lors des rencontres de Rio, Kyoto, Johannesburg et Bali, le Canada représente un « cas extrême » de non-respect de ses engagements.

« Après avoir signé le protocole de Kyoto [en 1997], dans lequel nous nous engagions à diminuer nos émissions de gaz à effet de serre à 6 pour cent de moins que celles de 1990, nous les avons plutôt augmentées d’environ 25 pour cent », peut-on lire dans la lettre.

Les évêques notent que la société canadienne n’est pas suffisamment consciente de l’héritage appauvri qu’elle léguera aux générations à venir. Ils souhaitent donc que des ajustements soient apportés dès maintenant afin d’améliorer la situation actuelle, pour le mieux-être des prochaines générations et des populations de l’hémisphère sud.

En vue de rétablir les liens avec la nature, la lettre pastorale identifie un certain nombre d’actions qui pourraient être entreprises afin d’atténuer les effets de cette crise écologique, y compris :

• retrouver le sens de la limite et ajuster notre mode de vie aux ressources planétaires disponibles;
• se libérer de l’obsession de posséder et de consommer et opter plutôt pour « une austérité joyeuse » ou une simplicité volontaire; et
• consentir des efforts personnels en faveur de l’environnement.

Au dire des évêques, il incombe à chaque personne de rétablir les liens qui ont été détériorés avec la nature, de revoir sa conception de la possession et du confort personnels. C’est donc à une solidarité accrue et à de nouvelles formes de partage que sont invités tous les citoyens du Canada.

Déjà, en octobre 2003, la CECC avait publié une première lettre sur l’environnement intitulée : « L’impératif écologique chrétien ». Ce texte, de même que celui qui vient d’être publié, est disponible sur le site Web de la CECC. Des copies imprimées peuvent également être obtenues en s’adressant à mchabot [at] cecc [dot] ca.
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Posted: Mar. 12, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=435
Categories: Documents, News • In this article: Canada, Catholic, CCCB, environment Transmis : 12 mars 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=435
Catégorie : Documents, News • Dans cet article : Canada, Catholic, CCCB, environment

New Anglican coordinator for ethics & inter-faith relations

New Anglican coordinator for ethics & inter-faith relations

[Anglican Journal] Rev. Isaac Kawuki-Mukasa, who serves as a consultant in congregational development for the diocese of Toronto, has been named co-ordinator for dialogue: ethics, congregational development and inter-faith relations, for the Anglican Church of Canada’s faith, worship and ministry department.

One of Mr. Kawuki-Mukasa’s responsibilities will be to staff conversations about the issue of sexuality as mandated in 2007 by General Synod, the national governing body of the Anglican Church of Canada. He will also staff the human life task force, which looks at issues of ethics, and will represent the Canadian Anglican church at inter-faith dialogues and “foster the network of practitioners of congregational development,” according to the announcement.

Ordained a priest in the Church of Uganda in 1985, Mr. Kawuki-Mukasa has been exercising his ministry in Canada since 1992. He has served in the ecumenical shared ministry parishes of Lynn Lake and Snow Lake, Man., diocese of Brandon. He was also a member of the faculty of the Centre for Christian Studies and a consultant for ethnic ministries for the United Church of Canada.

Mr. Kawuki-Mukasa completed a PhD in theology and interdisciplinary studies from the Toronto School of Theology in 2005. He has a masters degree from the University of Zimbabwe, a master of divinity from the Nairobi School of Theology, and a bachelor of arts in political science from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

Recently, he has been helping the diocese of Toronto develop relations with Anglican dioceses in Africa, said Canon Alyson Barnett-Cowan in a notice announcing Mr. Kawuki-Mukasa’s appointment. “He has written extensively and participated in many events discussing issues in the Anglican Communion today. He will bring an important perspective into the work of the General Synod at this time,” she added.

Mr. Mukasa will assume his new portfolio on June 1. He succeeds Linda Nicholls, who was elected a suffragan bishop of Toronto last November.
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Posted: Mar. 19, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=437
Categories: Anglican Journal, Dialogue • In this article: Anglican, Canada, human sexuality, interfaith Transmis : 19 mars 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=437
Catégorie : Anglican Journal, Dialogue • Dans cet article : Anglican, Canada, human sexuality, interfaith

Christians and Muslims must enhance common ground and acknowledge differences, says WCC

Christians and Muslims must enhance common ground and acknowledge differences, says WCC

Love for one’s neighbour is “an essential and integral part of faith in God and love of God” for both Islam and Christianity. How Christians and Muslims can engage in reflections of this love together is the central theme of a commentary issued by the World Council of Churches (WCC) on Thursday, 20 March. Compiled by Christian experts in Christian-Muslim relations, it addresses the churches and offers suggestions on responding to the widely noticed letter “A Common Word” by 138 Muslim leaders in October 2007.

The commentary entitled “Learning to explore love together” is part of on-going consultations in which the WCC has engaged its member churches and ecumenical partners since November 2007. It invites them “to explore together with Muslim fellows the love of God and the love of neighbour in their respective contexts”.

“We are encouraging our churches to consider this invitation offered by the Muslim leaders as a new opportunity for interreligious dialogue” said WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia. “It is our hope that this commentary will be a helpful tool as churches reflect on ‘A Common Word,’ and begin to engage in dialogue with the Muslim community,” he said.

The document invites the churches to reflect on the two major theological themes of “A Common Word,” love of God and love of neighbour. It points to the historical challenges and new promises of such dialogues and outlines a process for continuing dialogue among Muslim and Christian leaders. It is “a pressing necessity that while Christians and Muslims must find ways of enhancing what they hold in common, they must also find ways of acknowledging and respecting the differences between them,” the document states.

“This document signals the initiating of a process,” said Rima Barsoum, WCC program executive for Christian-Muslim Dialogue, “it calls for a joint planning group that will carefully prepare and jointly invite Muslim and Christian leaders and scholars for continuing dialogue events that will encourage interreligious cooperation at the global and local levels.

This process of response was affirmed by the Central Committee of the WCC at its meeting in February 2008, in Geneva.

• Download the document “Learning to explore love together” (pdf, 46 KB)

• “A Common Word”, a Muslim letter to Christian leaders

• More information on the WCC Programme on Interreligious Dialogue and Cooperation
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Posted: Mar. 26, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=443
Categories: Dialogue • In this article: Christian, Christianity, interfaith, Islam Transmis : 26 mars 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=443
Catégorie : Dialogue • Dans cet article : Christian, Christianity, interfaith, Islam

Chrétiens et musulmans doivent souligner ce qu’ils ont en commun et reconnaître leurs divergences, préconise le COE

Chrétiens et musulmans doivent souligner ce qu’ils ont en commun et reconnaître leurs divergences, préconise le COE

L’amour du prochain est “un élément essentiel et une partie intégrante de la foi en Dieu et de l’amour de Dieu” pour l’islam comme pour le christianisme. La manière dont chrétiens et musulmans peuvent réfléchir ensemble à cet amour constitue le thème central d’un commentaire publié par le Conseil œcuménique des Eglises (COE) le jeudi 20 mars 2008. Rédigé par des experts chrétiens du dialogue avec l’Islam, il suggère aux Eglises de réponses possibles à la lettre intitulée “Une parole commune”, signée par 138 responsables musulmans en octobre 2007.

Ce commentaire, intitulé “Apprendre à approfondir l’amour ensemble”, s’inscrit dans le cadre des consultations en cours que le COE a lancées auprès de ses Eglises membres et des partenaires œcuméniques en novembre 2007 en les invitant à “approfondir avec les musulmans l’amour de Dieu et l’amour du prochain dans leurs contextes respectifs”.

“Nous encourageons nos Eglises à considérer l’invitation lancée par les responsables musulmans comme une nouvelle occasion de dialogue interreligieux”, déclare le pasteur Samuel Kobia, secrétaire général du COE. “Nous espérons que ce commentaire constituera un outil utile aux Eglises dans leur réflexion sur ‘Une parole commune’ et facilitera leur dialogue avec la communauté musulmane.”

Le document invite les Eglises à réfléchir aux deux grands thèmes mentionnés dans “Une parole commune”: l’amour de Dieu et l’amour du prochain. Il souligne les défis historiques et les nouvelles promesses des dialogues de ce genre et esquisse un processus permettant de poursuivre les échanges entre responsables chrétiens et musulmans. Il est “absolument indispensable que, tout en trouvant comment souligner ce qu’ils ont en commun, chrétiens et musulmans imaginent aussi comment reconnaître et respecter les divergences qui existent entre eux”.

“Ce texte marque le début d’un processus”, déclare Rima Barsoum, responsable du dialogue entre chrétiens et musulmans au COE. “Il invite à constituer un groupe mixte de planification qui jettera les bases d’un dialogue et invitera les responsables et théologiens chrétiens et musulmans a y participer dans le cadre de manifestations propres à encourager la coopération interreligieuse aux niveaux mondial et local.”

Le processus de réponse à “Une parole commune” a été approuvé par le Comité central du COE lors de sa réunion de février 2008 à Genève.

• Texte intégral de “Learning to explore love together” (en anglais)

• “Une parole commune”, lettre de dignitaires musulmans aux responsables chrétiens

• Pour plus d’informations sur le Programme “coopération et dialogue interreligieux” du COE
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Posted: Mar. 27, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=445
Categories: Dialogue, News • In this article: interfaith, Islam Transmis : 27 mars 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=445
Catégorie : Dialogue, News • Dans cet article : interfaith, Islam

United Methodist Church adopts full communion proposal with ELCA

United Methodist Church Adopts Full Communion Proposal with ELCA

[ELCA News Service • Fort Worth, Texas] — By a vote of 864-19, the General Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC) adopted an implementing resolution April 28 that will establish full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Full communion will be fully realized by both churches should the same proposal be adopted at the next ELCA Churchwide Assembly, which meets Aug. 17-23, 2009, in Minneapolis.

The UMC General Conference, meeting here April 23-May 2, is the Methodist’s chief legislative body and meets every four years. The ELCA Churchwide Assembly is the ELCA’s chief legislative authority, meeting every two years. The ELCA and UMC have been in formal theological dialogue since 1977, which led to beginning a relationship of “Interim Eucharistic Sharing” in 2005. That relationship called for members to pray for and support each other, to study Scripture together and to learn about each other’s traditions in anticipation of achieving full communion.

Full communion means the churches will work for visible unity in Jesus Christ, recognize each other’s ministries, work together on a variety of ministry initiatives, and, under certain circumstances, provide for the interchangeability of ordained clergy.

April 28 was “a banner day” because of the UMC General Conference vote on full communion, said the Rev. William Oden, ecumenical officer, UMC Council of Bishops, at an April 29 news conference. “This has been a long time coming. A lot of careful work has been done,” he said. Oden emphasized that the proposal is a relationship between the two church bodies and not a “church union.”

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop, Chicago, said he eagerly awaits the ELCA Churchwide Assembly vote in 2009 and hopes that it, too, will be a strong affirmation of full communion with the UMC. Hanson also preached at an April 29 worship service at the UMC General Conference.

“This is about revival of two church bodies that are deeply committed to re-presenting themselves in a pluralistic, dynamic changing culture for the sake of mission,” Hanson said.

The two church bodies must consider what they can do together as full communion partners that was not possible before, Hanson said. He suggested possible cooperative ministries in campus ministry, global mission, advocacy for justice and peace, to name only a few. He also agreed with Oden’s assertion that full communion cannot be successful if it is considered to be a “top down” action. Full communion should be a relationship in which mission initiatives should “bubble up” in the two churches, Hanson said.

“I always think of full communion as merely a step along the way toward a new, possible future because of the relationship,” Hanson said. “That new, possible future is the for the sake of the world. It’s for the sake of mission. Full communion calls for ecumenical, missional imagination.”

Full communion also gives “formal expression” to what is happening in both churches already, said the Rev. Greg Palmer, president, UMC Council of Bishops. “In one way we’re leading, and in another way, we’re following. We are catching up with people on the ground who are doing things in partnership, in mission and in ministry,” he said.

Christians “must find meaningful, significant and substantive ways of honoring the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ in one another and together, living that before the world. We must live before the world what God intends for the world,” Palmer added.

Assuming the full communion proposal is adopted by the ELCA Churchwide Assembly in 2009, a coordinating council with representatives of both churches will be appointed, said the Rev. Donald J. McCoid, executive, ELCA Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Chicago. That council will coordinate how the two churches will plan for mission together and consider practical matters such as interchangeability of ordained ministers, he said.

The ELCA’s five full communion partners are the Episcopal Church, the Moravian Church in America, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), Reformed Church in America and United Church of Christ.

While the ELCA has successful cooperative ministries with its full communion partners, it must improve how it receives and implements full communion agreements, McCoid said. “We need to do better with how we are able to be intentional (in) sharing ministry. Grassroots sharing is really very critical, and I’ll just echo that again and again and again. The best way we can do that is by giving people permission and encouragement.”

If adopted by both churches, this will be the UMC’s first full communion agreement outside of the Methodist tradition.

The ELCA is one of 140 churches in the Lutheran World Federation and is the third-largest Lutheran church in the world with 4.8 million members. The United Methodist Church is a worldwide church with nearly 8 million members in the United States.

—

Audio of comments made at the April 29 news conference in Fort Worth:

The Rev. William Oden • media.ELCA.org/audionews/080429a.mp3
The Rev. Mark S. Hanson • media.ELCA.org/audionews/080429b.mp3
The Rev. Greg Palmer • media.ELCA.org/audionews/080429c.mp3
The Rev. Donald J. McCoid • media.ELCA.org/audionews/080429d.mp3

Information about the Lutheran-United Methodist Dialogue is on the ELCA Web site.

Information about the UMC General Conference is on the Web.

For information contact: John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or • www.elca.org/news • ELCA News Blog
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Posted: Apr. 30, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=451
Categories: Dialogue, ELCA News • In this article: full communion, Lutheran, Methodist, USA Transmis : 30 avril 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=451
Catégorie : Dialogue, ELCA News • Dans cet article : full communion, Lutheran, Methodist, USA

Joint declaration from Catholic-Shi’a Muslim colloquium

Joint declaration from Catholic-Shi’a Muslim colloquium

The Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue (Vatican) and the Centre for Inter-religious Dialogue of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organisation (Tehran, Iran) held their sixth Colloquium in Rome from 28 – 30 April 2008 under the joint presidency of His Eminence Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, and His Excellency Dr. Mahdi Mostafavi, President of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organisation.
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Posted: Apr. 30, 2008 • Permanent link: ecumenism.net/?p=452
Categories: Communiqué, News • In this article: Catholic, Islam Transmis : 30 avril 2008 • Lien permanente : ecumenism.net/?p=452
Catégorie : Communiqué, News • Dans cet article : Catholic, Islam