Method in Ecumenical Theology The Lessons So Far [Paperback]

First published in 1996 this book examines the search for unity in the Church.We are in a new phase in the search for unity in the Church. For thirty years pioneering conversations have put forward solutions to old disagreements and are beginning to build a new ecumenical theology. But when it comes to taking actual steps towards unity there is often a drawing-back from the final commitment. G. R. Evans examines the methodology of ecume nical theology and the way it is being taken into the lives of the churches, from the experience which has been reported so far. This is a necessary stocktaking exercise for future discussions.We are in a new phase in the search for unity in the Church. For thirty years pioneering conversations have put forward solutions to old disagreements and are beginning to build a new ecumenical theology. But when it comes to taking actual steps towards unity there is often a drawing-back from the final commitment. G. R. Evans examines the methodology of ecume nical theology and the way it is being taken into the lives of the churches, from the experience which has been reported so far. This is a necessary stocktaking exercise for future discussions.There is now a new phase in the search for unity in the Church. For thirty years pioneering conversations have put forward solutions to old disagreements and are beginning to build a new ecumenical theology. But when it comes to taking actual steps toward unity there is often a drawing-back from the final commitment. G. R. Evans examines the methodology of ecumenical theology and the way it is being taken into the lives of the churches. By making judicious use of interdenominational archival material and secondary literature, the author provides a timely resource for all those interested in recent ecumenical progress.Introduction: the 'winter of ecumenism'?; 1. What is ecumenical theology?; 2. Changing attitudes and stages in ecumenism; 3. Communication and dialogue; 4. Ecumenical language; 5. Histl(