wfn.org | Churches seeking broader ecumenical forum

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2000-150

Churches seeking broader ecumenical forum

by James Solheim

     (ENS) Thirty representatives from around the world gathered 
in California to "explore the idea of a Global Christian Forum 
that would include a wide spectrum of churches and 
organizations," according to a September 11 communique.

     The idea of a broad-based forum that goes "beyond the 
present ecumenical structures" has emerged recently among those 
who are convinced that traditional patterns are too limited, that 
more Christians should be welcomed to the table.

     Originally the idea for such a forum was part of 
conversations within the World Council of Churches, but the 
development of a proposal is now the mandate of an independent 
continuation committee.

     The Rev. David Perry, the Episcopal Church's ecumenical 
officer, is a member of the committee that includes 
representatives from Anglican, Orthodox, Roman Catholic, 
Protestant, Pentecostal and Evangelical churches, as well as 
others from Christian networks and parachurch organizations. They 
also brought to the meeting the realities of regional challenges 
from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, and 
North America. As a result of the broad representation, the hopes 
and expectations of traditional churches, as well as independent 
or free churches, were openly and frankly discussed, according to 
the communique.

A whole new conversation

     Perry said that it was "a very unusual meeting, an 
incredible gathering of people, many of whom don't meet in other 
settings." Because the conversations were very open and honest, 
"our stereotypes were challenged. It was a marvelous opportunity 
to relate in some very direct ways, to build trust and to share 
common agendas."

     He added, "At the heart of many of our conversations was a 
concern for our witness in the world. And the spirit of the 
meeting is just what we are looking for as we attempt to bring 
more people to the ecumenical table and move together into the 
future."

     Perry said that for him, and most of the other participants, 
"it was a growing, learning experience--and a very promising sign 
that could encourage others to join the conversation."

Contours for the future

     The representatives agreed on some possible contours of a 
forum, including attempts to:

* deepen our commitment to God's mission in the world; 

*enhance our understanding of contemporary expressions of 
Christian mission; 

* pursue principles and practices that would enable us to 
handle our Christian differences and distinctives creatively and 
peaceably;

* strengthen the wholeness of the church by encouraging 
communication and cooperation, and foster relationships that 
may lead to common witness.

     The communique concluded by noting that "the meeting was 
marked by an atmosphere of mutual partnership, trust and 
consensus building and was undergirded by warm and deep 
fellowship."

--James Solheim is director of the Episcopal Church's Office of 
News and Information.