ECUMENISM

A current standard definition of “ecumenism” is the principle or aim of promoting unity among Christian churches. But, unity with respect to what? And if we know the answer to that, how do we get to that unity? What does unity look like in practice?

The ultimate “unity” is the “one in three persons” unity of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Today’s reflection from The Anchorhold flows from the following passage: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5. All of us in Christian churches are branches to the vine that is Christ. For us to foster unity, each of us must first be united with Christ – only then can be be connected to the other branches – our brethren – in a mutual life-giving way. Christ has said so: if we are not in him – and do not remain in him – we can do nothing – nothing.