Ecumenism is a comparatively recent development in the history of Christianity. It is associated with the hope that more togetherness has added value for all involved - and that the divided Christianity is committed to Christ's mission "that all may be one" (John 17:21).
It is 25 years since the "Joint Official Statement" on the "Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification" was signed on the Feast of the Reformation in Augsburg in 1999. It is the most important theological event in Western ecumenism since the Reformation. Reaching a consensus on the main point of contention that caused unity to break down in the Middle Ages does not mean that all points of contention have been resolved. There were no real breakthroughs as expected in the period that followed. The 500th anniversary of the Reformation was celebrated in 2017. The euphoria that arose at the time now seems to have faded.
The spirit of optimism is usually mixed with irritation, then there is talk of a standstill, which in turn is ended by hopeful developments. The much-cited "ecumenism of relationships" ensures that the thread of dialogue does not break. In practice, there is much to discuss and organise: Church services, jointly used parish halls, children's Bible weeks, diaconal programmes, hospital, prison or military chaplaincy and religious education.
Among other things, the conference will look at ecumenical co-operation in the city, ask about the ideas and perspectives of young people and discuss a project in the field of education.
We would be delighted if you would participate in the debate with your questions and ideas. A warm invitation to the ecumenical discourse!
Rev. Udo Hahn, Director, Protestant Academy Tutzing
PD Dr Achim Budde, Director, Catholic Academy in Bavaria
