Various Forms of Local Ecumenism - Week 10-11

Sharing in Prayer and Worship

In this form, it is mentioned that “at all levels of the local churches there are many occasions for seeking the gifts of the Holy Spirit and that change of heart and holiness of life, which along with public and private prayer for the unity of Christians, would be regarded as the soul of the whole ecumenical movement. Many forms of this spiritual ecumenism are emerging today in prayer groups in which members of various confessions assemble.

Common Bible Work

It was in 1968 that the “Guiding Principles of Interconfessional Cooperation” were co-published by the United Bible Societies and the Secretariat for Promoting Christian Unity, and there is official Catholic collaboration in 133 Bible translation projects in various places in accordance with these norms. In addition, many of the 56 national Bible societies that make up the United Bible Societies, working in agreement with a number of Episcopal conferences and diocesan bishops, have developed programs of cooperation with Catholics in Scripture distribution and promotion of Bible reading.

Joint Pastoral Care

This is “organized mainly in terms of some specific situation and does not compete with parish-based pastoral work.” For instance, in hospitals the chaplains often adopt an ecumenical approach, both for some of their contacts with the patients and for their dealings with the hospital authorities.

Shared Premises

This part is very important. Though there is a “rule” that Catholic churches are reserved for Catholic worship. As consecrated buildings have an important liturgical significance. Further, they have a pedagogical value for inculcating the meaning and spirit of worship. Therefore, sharing them with other Christians or constructing new churches jointly with other Christians can only be by way of exception. However, the Ecumenical Directory has stated, "If the separated brethren have no place in which to carry out their religious rites properly and with dignity, the local ordinary may allow them the use of a Catholic building, cemetery, or church.

Collaboration in Education

It is in the “second part of the Ecumenical Directory"; this was mentioned: "The manner in which they have been realized differs greatly in different places.” In these areas there can be particular problems and difficulties that call for a high degree of pastoral prudence.” As it is mentioned, "There are now several ‘cluster’’ of the theological schools and faculties. In some places, there are sharings of certain buildings, and especially the use of libraries; some common lectures and sometimes two or more confessional faculties have combined to organize a common academic degree course.”

Joint Use