Councils of Churches and the Ecumenical Vision: No. 90 (Risk Book Series) - Softcover

The Ecumenical Movement of the 20th century saw the formation all around the world of voluntary associations of separated and autonomous Christian churches in a defined geographical area which have sought to manifest their fellowship with one another, engage in common witness and service, and advance towards the goal of visible unity. At the dawn of the 21st century, many of these councils of churches face difficult times. This lively introduction describes the history and theological basis of these bodies, notes the tensions often arising within them and discusses three specific contemporary challenges: the proposal that ecumenical organisations should expand to become inter-religious bodies, the development of ecumenical leadership, and the relationship between spirituality and ecumenism. This book is about councils of churches and the people who are part of them. How do councils look when they correspond to the ecumenical vision? What qualities are desirable in volunteer and professional ecumenical leaders? What are the spiritual marks and fruits of ecumenical commitment? In what ways should councils address the relationship between Christian churches and people of other faiths? Here is a book that will help in the ongoing process of calling Christians to reframe their picture. Shared life is the norm. Division demands explanation. A unique resource for anyone interested in ecumenism.

Diane Kessler is Executive Director of the Massachusetts Council of Churches, Boston, USA.