Ecumenical

The USCCB’s Secretariat for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs participates in more than a dozen ongoing ecumenical dialogues and consultations. 

For the most current information, check out our frequently updated EIA homepage or see what Special Events are coming up.  You can read more about who we are and find out what is currently happening through our dialogue pages on the left-hand sidebar.

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The Meaning of Ecumenism

Ecumenism, from the Greek word “oikoumene,” meaning “the whole inhabited world,” is the promotion of cooperation and unity between Christian denominations. The Ecumenical movement today has been brought about by the conviction of Christians that a divided Christianity is a scandal to the world.

Underlying the Catholic Church’s pursuit of ecumenism is its recognition that elements of sanctification and truth are found in other churches (Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium 8). 

It can be said that the Ecumenicity of the Church is another way of expressing her radical catholicity or universality (See Guidelines for Lutheran-Roman Catholic Dialogue 1967).

 

Ecumenical Progress

Since the 1960’s, following Vatican II, breakthrough agreements have been reached between Catholics and other communions including a statement on Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry. A joint statement on the doctrine of justification was similarly released between Catholics and Lutherans. 

 

Read more - The USCCB's Ecumenical Mission: A History