We Must Walk Toward Christian Unity
During our annual priest convocation in September, Archbishop Joseph Tobin of Indianapolis was our presenter. In his opening conference, he shared an invitation he had received from the Methodist Bishop of Indiana to address his ministers and their wives during their annual conference. The two-day gathering focused on Pope Francis’ emphasis that the Church is to be “outward looking.” We are to look “outwards” to our inactive Catholics, the un-churched and those living on society’s margins, and invite them to become part of God’s family – the Church.
How fascinating that the Methodist bishop, his clergy and their wives devoted all their attention to Pope Francis’s teaching. Obviously, the Pope speaks to all Christian traditions, the un-churched and even atheists. The manner of his live authenticity echoes the truth of his words.
Archbishop Tobin’s experience is a wonderful example of the dialogue occurring among various Christian denominations today. Vatican II helped pave the way for this dialogue by recognizing that we are all members of the Body of Christ. Unfortunately, we had a “family fight” 500 years ago and have not yet reached full reconciliation in our faith. Pope Francis stresses that, “The credibility of the Christian message would be much greater if Christians would overcome their divisions and the Church could realize ‘the fullness of catholicity proper to her in those of her children who, though joined to her by baptism, are yet separated from full communion with her’” (Evangelii Gaudium 244).
Through the discussion of theologians for decades has resolved many of the differences that once led to the division in the Christian Church of the West. What may still exist among Christians is the prejudice we may have internalized while growing up. Coming together for ecumenical Thanksgiving services, working side-by-side on the construction of Habitat Houses and other common activities are tremendous helps to get to know one another as sisters and brothers in Christ. Emphasizing how we are a pilgrim people journeying alongside one another, Pope Francis asserts that, “This means that we must have sincere trust in our fellow pilgrims, putting aside all suspicions or mistrust, and turn our gaze to what we are all seeking: the radiant peace of God’s face” (E.G. 244).
If we are true to our name “Christian”, then we must take Christ’s prayer for unity on the night before he died. We must conscientiously for that unity among Christians for which Christ prayed. The Holy Father believes that we can learn so much from one another, “It is not just about being better informed about others, but rather about reaping what the Spirit has sown in them, which is also meant to be a gift for us” (E.G. 246). The value of this dialogue between the Catholic Church and other Christian denominations may also serve as “contribution to the unity of the human family” (E.G. 245). Pope Francis vehemently declares that “Signs of division between Christians in countries ravaged by violence add further causes of conflict on the part of those who should instead be a leaven of peace” (E.G. 246). Overcoming our differences and living in God’s peace may be a catalyst for unity and peace in our world so often threatened by war.
