Promoting Christian Unity

Carolyn Puccio, CSJ

The recent declaration by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith Dominus lesus a release by the Vatican on September 5, and its various interpretations and proposed implications as reflected in the press, have raised serious concern among those dedicated to the cause of Christian Unity, both within and outside of the Roman Catholic church. As we strive to understand the meaning and intent of this recent document; it may be valuable to revisit the message of the bishops of Vatican II and the direction set for us by them in the document on Ecumenism; Unitatis Redintegratio-Restoration of Unity more commonly called the Decree on Ecumenism, set forth on November 21, 1964.

Because it is always dangerous to take passages out of context, I urge you to reread this entire document. Within its introduction and three short chapters, lies a statement of the charter for us as followers of the one Jesus Christ who prayed "that all might be one." (John 17:21) in addition, the 1996 encyclical "Ut Unum Sint" issued by Pope John II broadens and updates the message of Vatican II, emphasizing our need to ask forgiveness for the times we have offended others even as we have worked to foster ecumenical sensitivity in our dialogue and cooperation.

As we reflect on our call to unity, let us keep in mind this statement from the Decree on Ecumenism: "There can be no ecumenism worthy of its name without a change of heart." (ch.2, #7) Each of us is challenged to search out what this means for us as individuals, as well as for our communities, our parishes, and our diocese.

The task given to us remains the same and yet is ever new: "Cooperation among all Christians...should contribute to a just appreciation of the dignity of the human person, the promotion of the blessings of peace, the application of gospel principles to social life and the advancement of the arts and sciences in a Christian spirit. Christians should also work together in the use of every possible means to relieve the afflictions of our times such as famine and natural disasters, illiteracy and poverty, lack of housing, and the unequal distribution of wealth. Through such cooperation, all believers in Christ are able to learn easily how they can understand each other better and esteem each other more, and how the road to the unity of Christians may be made smooth." (ch.2,#12)

This time of Thanksgiving offers numerous opportunities to foster Christian unity. As we gather to give thanks in prayer and song, when we co-sponsor opportunities to become informed on the political issues, standing side by side in projects for Habitat for Humanity, sharing our resources for the local food shelf, responding to the needy in so many ways, locally and globally, we are about the noble task of Christian Unity until the time that "...all Christians will be gathered, in a common celebration of the Eucharist..." (ch.1, #4) May God continue to inspire and bless our efforts.

Carolyn Puccio, CSJ, is a member of the Ecumenical Committee for the Diocese of New Ulm.