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The 16 Documents of Vatican II

Resolution 

Reflection 369  Based on the 1965 Vatican II document: 
Decree on Ecumenism
- Article 4

(Comments welcome here)

 

Good to re-read these words from this article:

The term "ecumenical movement" indicates the initiatives and activities planned and undertaken, according to the various needs of the Church and as opportunities offer, to promote Christian unity.

These are:

- first, every effort to avoid expressions, judgments and actions which do not represent the condition of our separated brethren with truth and fairness and so make mutual relations with them more difficult;

- then, "dialogue" between competent experts from different Churches and Communities. At these meetings, which are organized in a religious spirit, each explains the teaching of his Communion in greater depth and brings out clearly its distinctive features. In such dialogue, everyone gains a truer knowledge and more just appreciation of the teaching and religious life of both Communions.

- In addition, the way is prepared for cooperation between them in the duties for the common good of humanity which are demanded by every Christian conscience;

- and, wherever this is allowed, there is prayer in common.

- Finally, all are led to examine their own faithfulness to Christ's will for the Church and accordingly to undertake with vigor the task of renewal and reform.

Jesus, please help us put the above words into practice