Ut unum sint - Ioannes Paulus PP. II - Encyclical Letter (1995.05.25)

Ioannes Paulus PP. II

Ut unum sint

On commitment to Ecumenism

1995.05.25

INTRODUCTION

1. Ut unum sint! The call for Christian unity made by the Second Vatican

Ecumenical Council with such impassioned commitment is finding an ever

greater echo in the hearts of believers, especially as the Year 2000

approaches, a year which Christians will celebrate as a sacred Jubilee,

the commemoration of the Incarnation of the Son of God, who became man in

order to save humanity.

The courageous witness of so many martyrs of our century, including

members of Churches and Ecclesial Communities not in full communion with

the Catholic Church, gives new vigour to the Council's call and reminds us

of our duty to listen to and put into practice its exhortation. These

brothers and sisters of ours, united in the selfless offering of their

lives for the Kingdom of God, are the most powerful proof that every

factor of division can be transcended and overcome in the total gift of

self for the sake of the Gospel.

Christ calls all his disciples to unity. My earnest desire is to renew

this call today, to propose it once more with determination, repeating

what I said at the Roman Colosseum on Good Friday 1994, at the end of the

meditation on the Via Crucis prepared by my Venerable Brother Bartholomew,

the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. There I stated that believers

in Christ, united in following in the footsteps of the martyrs, cannot

remain divided. If they wish truly and effectively to oppose the world's

tendency to reduce to powerlessness the Mystery of Redemption, they must

profess together the same truth about the Cross.1 The Cross! An

anti-Christian outlook seeks to minimize the Cross, to empty it of its

meaning, and to deny that in it man has the source of his new life. It

claims that the Cross is unable to provide either vision or hope. Man, it

says, is nothing but an earthly being, who must live as if God did not

exist.

2. No one is unaware of the challenge which all this poses to believers.

They cannot fail to meet this challenge. Indeed, how could they refuse to

do everything possible, with God's help, to break down the walls of

division and distrust, to overcome obstacles and prejudices which thwart

the proclamation of the Gospel of salvation in the Cross of Jesus, the one

Redeemer of man, of every individual?

I thank the Lord that he has led us to make progress along the path of

unity and communion between Christians, a path difficult but so full of

joy. Interconfessional dialogues at the theological level have produced

positive and tangible results: this encourages us to move forward.

Nevertheless, besides the doctrinal differences needing to be resolved,

Christians cannot underestimate the burden of long-standing misgivings

inherited from the past, and of mutual misunderstandings and prejudices.

Complacency, indifference and insufficient knowledge of one another often

make this situation worse. Consequently, the commitment to ecumenism must

be based upon the conversion of hearts and upon prayer, which will also

lead to the necessary purification of past memories. With the grace of the

Holy Spirit, the Lord's disciples, inspired by love, by the power of the

truth and by a sincere desire for mutual forgiveness and reconciliation,

are called to re-examine together their painful past and the hurt which

that past regrettably continues to provoke even today. All together, they

are invited by the ever fresh power of the Gospel to acknowledge with

sincere and total objectivity the mistakes made and the contingent factors

at work at the origins of their deplorable divisions. What is needed is a

calm, clear-sighted and truthful vision of things, a vision enlivened by

divine mercy and capable of freeing people's minds and of inspiring in

everyone a renewed willingness, precisely with a view to proclaiming the

Gospel to the men and women of every people and nation.

3. At the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Church committed herself

irrevocably to following the path of the ecumenical venture, thus heeding

the Spirit of the Lord, who teaches people to interpret carefully the

"signs of the times" . The experiences of these years have made the Church

even more profoundly aware of her identity and her mission in history. The

Catholic Church acknowledges and confesses the weaknesses of her members,

conscious that their sins are so many betrayals of and obstacles to the

accomplishment of the Saviour's plan. Because she feels herself constantly

called to be renewed in the spirit of the Gospel, she does not cease to do

penance. At the same time, she acknowledges and exalts still more the

power of the Lord, who fills her with the gift of holiness, leads her

forward, and conforms her to his Passion and Resurrection.

Taught by the events of her history, the Church is committed to freeing

herself from every purely human support, in order to live in depth the

Gospel law of the Beatitudes. Conscious that the truth does not impose

itself except "by virtue of its own truth, as it makes its entrance into

the mind at once quietly and with power",2 she seeks nothing for herself

but the freedom to proclaim the Gospel. Indeed, her authority is exercised

in the service of truth and charity.

I myself intend to promote every suitable initiative aimed at making the

witness of the entire Catholic community understood in its full purity and

consistency, especially considering the engagement which awaits the Church

at the threshold of the new Millennium. That will be an exceptional

occasion, in view of which she asks the Lord to increase the unity of all

Christians until they reach full communion.3 The present Encyclical Letter

is meant as a contribution to this most noble goal. Essentially pastoral

in character, it seeks to encourage the efforts of all who work for the

cause of unity.

4. This is a specific duty of the Bishop of Rome as the Successor of the

Apostle Peter. I carry out this duty with the profound conviction that I

am obeying the Lord, and with a clear sense of my own human frailty.

Indeed, if Christ himself gave Peter this special mission in the Church

and exhorted him to strengthen his brethren, he also made clear to him his

human weakness and his special need of conversion: "And when you have

turned again, strengthen your brethren" (Lk 22:32). It is precisely in

Peter's human weakness that it becomes fully clear that the Pope, in order

to carry out this special ministry in the Church, depends totally on the

Lord's grace and prayer: "I have prayed for you that your faith may not

fail" (Lk 22:32). The conversion of Peter and that of his Successors is

upheld by the very prayer of the Redeemer, and the Church constantly makes

this petition her own. In our ecumenical age, marked by the Second Vatican

Council, the mission of the Bishop of Rome is particularly directed to

recalling the need for full communion among Christ's disciples.

The Bishop of Rome himself must fervently make his own Christ's prayer for

that conversion which is indispensable for "Peter" to be able to serve his

brethren. I earnestly invite the faithful of the Catholic Church and all

Christians to share in this prayer. May all join me in praying for this

conversion!

We know that during her earthly pilgrimage the Church has suffered and

will continue to suffer opposition and persecution. But the hope which

sustains her is unshakable, just as the joy which flows from this hope is

indestructible. In effect, the firm and enduring rock upon which she is

founded is Jesus Christ, her Lord.

CHAPTER I - THE CATHOLIC CHURCH'S COMMITMENT TO ECUMENISM

God's plan and communion

5. Together with all Christ's disciples, the Catholic Church bases upon

God's plan her ecumenical commitment to gather all Christians into unity.

Indeed, "the Church is not a reality closed in on herself. Rather, she is

permanently open to missionary and ecumenical endeavour, for she is sent

to the world to announce and witness, to make present and spread the

mystery of communion which is essential to her, and to gather all people

and all things into Christ, so as to be for all an 'inseparable sacrament

of unity' ".4

Already in the Old Testament, the Prophet Ezekiel, referring to the

situation of God's People at that time, and using the simple sign of two

broken sticks which are first divided and then joined together, expressed

the divine will to "gather from all sides" the members of his scattered

people. "I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Then the

nations will know that I the Lord sanctify Israel" (cf. 37:16-28). The

Gospel of John, for its part, considering the situation of the People of

God at the time it was written, sees in Jesus' death the reason for the

unity of God's children: "Jesus would die for the nation, and not for the

nation only, but to gather into one the children of God who are scattered

abroad" (11:51-52). Indeed, as the Letter to the Ephesians explains, Jesus

"broke down the dividing wall of hostility ... through the Cross, thereby

bringing the hostility to an end"; in place of what was divided he brought

about unity (cf. 2:14-16).

6. The unity of all divided humanity is the will of God. For this reason

he sent his Son, so that by dying and rising for us he might bestow on us

the Spirit of love. On the eve of his sacrifice on the Cross, Jesus

himself prayed to the Father for his disciples and for all those who

believe in him, that theymight be one, a living communion. This is the

basis not only of the duty, but also of the responsibility before God and

his plan, which falls to those who through Baptism become members of the

Body of Christ, a Body in which the fullness of reconciliation and

communion must be made present. How is it possible to remain divided, if

we have been "buried" through Baptism in the Lord's death, in the very act

by which God, through the death of his Son, has broken down the walls of

division? Division "openly contradicts the will of Christ, provides a

stumbling block to the world, and inflicts damage on the most holy cause

of proclaiming the Good News to every creature".5

The way of ecumenism: the way of the Church

7. "The Lord of the Ages wisely and patiently follows out the plan of his

grace on behalf of us sinners. In recent times he has begun to bestow more

generously upon divided Christians remorse over their divisions and a

longing for unity. Everywhere, large numbers have felt the impulse of this

grace, and among our separated brethren also there increases from day to

day a movement, fostered by the grace of the Holy Spirit, for the

restoration of unity among all Christians. Taking part in this movement,

which is called ecumenical, are those who invoke the Triune God and

confess Jesus as Lord and Saviour. They join in not merely as individuals

but also as members of the corporate groups in which they have heard the

Gospel, and which each regards as his Church and, indeed, God's. And yet

almost everyone, though in different ways, longs that there may be one

visible Church of God, a Church truly universal and sent forth to the

whole world that the world may be converted to the Gospel and so be saved,

to the glory of God".6

8. This statement of the Decree Unitatis Redintegratio is to be read in

the context of the complete teaching of the Second Vatican Council. The

Council expresses the Church's decision to take up the ecumenical task of

working for Christian unity and to propose it with conviction and vigour:

"This sacred Synod exhorts all the Catholic faithful to recognize the

signs of the times and to participate actively in the work of ecumenism".7

In indicating the Catholic principles of ecumenism, the Decree Unitatis

Redintegratio recalls above all the teaching on the Church set forth in

the Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium in its chapter on the People of

God.8 At the same time, it takes into account everything affirmed in the

Council's Declaration on Religious Freedom Dignitatis Humanae.9

The Catholic Church embraces with hope the commitment to ecumenism as a

duty of the Christian conscience enlightened by faith and guided by love.

Here too we can apply the words of Saint Paul to the first Christians of

Rome: "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy

Spirit"; thus our "hope does not disappoint us" (Rom 5:5). This is the

hope of Christian unity, which has its divine source in the Trinitarian

unity of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

9. Jesus himself, at the hour of his Passion, prayed "that they may all be

one" (Jn 17:21). This unity, which the Lord has bestowed on his Church and

in which he wishes to embrace all people, is not something added on, but

stands at the very heart of Christ's mission. Nor is it some secondary

attribute of the community of his disciples. Rather, it belongs to the

very essence of this community. God wills the Church, because he wills

unity, and unity is an expression of the whole depth of his agape.

In effect, this unity bestowed by the Holy Spirit does not merely consist

in the gathering of people as a collection of individuals. It is a unity

constituted by the bonds of the profession of faith, the sacraments and

hierarchical communion.10 The faithful are one because, in the Spirit,

they are in communion with the Son and, in him, share in his communion

with the Father: "Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus

Christ" (1 Jn 1:3). For the Catholic Church, then, thecommunion of

Christians is none other than the manifestation in them of the grace by

which God makes them sharers in his own communion, which is his eternal

life. Christ's words "that they may be one" are thus his prayer to the

Father that the Father's plan may be fully accomplished, in such a way

that everyone may clearly see "what is the plan of the mystery hidden for

ages in God who created all things" (Eph 3:9). To believe in Christ means

to desire unity; to desire unity means to desire the Church; to desire the

Church means to desire the communion of grace which corresponds to the

Father's plan from all eternity. Such is the meaning of Christ's prayer:

"Ut unum sint".

10. In the present situation of the lack of unity among Christians and of

the confident quest for full communion, the Catholic faithful are

conscious of being deeply challenged by the Lord of the Church. The Second

Vatican Council strengthened their commitment with a clear ecclesiological

vision, open to all the ecclesial values present among other Christians.

The Catholic faithful face the ecumenical question in a spirit of faith.

The Council states that the Church of Christ "subsists in the Catholic

Church, which is governed by the Successor of Peter and by the Bishops in

communion with him", and at the same time acknowledges that "many elements

of sanctification and of truth can be found outside her visible structure.

These elements, however, as gifts properly belonging to the Church of

Christ, possess an inner dynamism towards Catholic unity".11

"It follows that these separated Churches and Communities, though we

believe that they suffer from defects, have by no means been deprived of

significance and value in the mystery of salvation. For the Spirit of

Christ has not refrained from using them as means of salvation which

derive their efficacy from the very fullness of grace and truth entrusted

to the Catholic Church".12

11. The Catholic Church thus affirms that during the two thousand years of

her history she has been preserved in unity, with all the means with which

God wishes to endow his Church, and this despite the often grave crises

which have shaken her, the infidelity of some of her ministers, and the

faults into which her members daily fall. The Catholic Church knows that,

by virtue of the strength which comes to her from the Spirit, the

weaknesses, mediocrity, sins and at times the betrayals of some of her

children cannot destroy what God has bestowed on her as part of his plan

of grace. Moreover, "the powers of death shall not prevail against it" (Mt

16:18). Even so, the Catholic Church does not forget that many among her

members cause God's plan to be discernible only with difficulty. Speaking

of the lack of unity among Christians, the Decree on Ecumenism does not

ignore the fact that "people of both sides were to blame",13 and

acknowledges that responsibility cannot be attributed only to the "other

side". By God's grace, however, neither what belongs to the structure of

the Church of Christ nor that communion which still exists with the other

Churches and Ecclesial Communities has been destroyed.

Indeed, the elements of sanctification and truth present in the other

Christian Communities, in a degree which varies from one to the other,

constitute the objective basis of the communion, albeit imperfect, which

exists between them and the Catholic Church.

To the extent that these elements are found in other Christian

Communities, the one Church of Christ is effectively present in them. For

this reason the Second Vatican Council speaks of a certain, though

imperfect communion. The Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium stresses that

the Catholic Church "recognizes that in many ways she is linked" 14 with

these Communities by a true union in the Holy Spirit.

12. The same Dogmatic Constitution listed at length "the elements of

sanctification and truth" which in various ways are present and operative

beyond the visible boundaries of the Catholic Church: "For there are many

who honour Sacred Scripture, taking it as a norm of belief and of action,

and who show a true religious zeal. They lovingly believe in God the

Father Almighty and in Christ, Son of God and Saviour. They are

consecrated by Baptism, through which they are united with Christ. They

also recognize and receive other sacraments within their own Churches or

Ecclesial Communities. Many of them rejoice in the episcopate, celebrate

the Holy Eucharist, and cultivate devotion towards the Virgin Mother of

God. They also share with us in prayer and other spiritual benefits.

Likewise, we can say that in some real way they are joined with us in the

Holy Spirit, for to them also he gives his gifts and graces, and is

thereby operative among them with his sanctifying power. Some indeed he

has strengthened to the extent of the shedding of their blood. In all of

Christ's disciples the Spirit arouses the desire to be peacefully united,

in the manner determined by Christ, as one flock under one shepherd".15

The Council's Decree on Ecumenism, referring to the Orthodox Churches,

went so far as to declare that "through the celebration of the Eucharist

of the Lord in each of these Churches, the Church of God is built up and

grows in stature".16 Truth demands that all this be recognized.

13. The same Document carefully draws out the doctrinal implications of

this situation. Speaking of the members of these Communities, it declares:

"All those justified by faith through Baptism are incorporated into

Christ. They therefore have a right to be honoured by the title of

Christian, and are properly regarded as brothers and sisters in the Lord

by the sons and daughters of the Catholic Church".17

With reference to the many positive elements present in the other Churches

and Ecclesial Communities, the Decree adds: "All of these, which come from

Christ and lead back to him, belong by right to the one Church of Christ.

The separated brethren also carry out many of the sacred actions of the

Christian religion. Undoubtedly, in many ways that vary according to the

condition of each Church or Community, these actions can truly engender a

life of grace, and can be rightly described as capable of providing access

to the community of salvation".18

These are extremely important texts for ecumenism. It is not that beyond

the boundaries of the Catholic community there is an ecclesial vacuum.

Many elements of great value (eximia), which in the Catholic Church are

part of the fullness of the means of salvation and of the gifts of grace

which make up the Church, are also found in the other Christian

Communities.

14. All these elements bear within themselves a tendency towards unity,

having their fullness in that unity. It is not a matter of adding together

all the riches scattered throughout the various Christian Communities in

order to arrive at a Church which God has in mind for the future. In

accordance with the great Tradition, attested to by the Fathers of the

East and of the West, the Catholic Church believes that in the Pentecost

Event God has already manifested the Church in her eschatological reality,

which he had prepared "from the time of Abel, the just one".19 This

reality is something already given. Consequently we are even now in the

last times. The elements of this already-given Church exist, found in

their fullness in the Catholic Church and, without this fullness, in the

other Communities,20 where certain features of the Christian mystery have

at times been more effectively emphasized. Ecumenism is directed precisely

to making the partial communion existing between Christians grow towards

full communion in truth and charity.

Renewal and conversion

15. Passing from principles, from the obligations of the Christian

conscience, to the actual practice of the ecumenical journey towards

unity, the Second Vatican Council emphasizes above all the need for

interior conversion. The messianic proclamation that "the time is

fulfilled and the Kingdom of God is at hand", and the subsequent call to

"repent, and believe in the Gospel" (Mk 1:15) with which Jesus begins his

mission, indicate the essential element of every new beginning: the

fundamental need for evangelization at every stage of the Church's journey

of salvation. This is true in a special way of the process begun by the

Second Vatican Council, when it indicated as a dimension of renewal the

ecumenical task of uniting divided Christians. "There can be no ecumenism

worthy of the name without a change of heart".21

The Council calls for personal conversion as well as for communal

conversion. The desire of every Christian Community for unity goes hand in

hand with its fidelity to the Gospel. In the case of individuals who live

their Christian vocation, the Council speaks of interior conversion, of a

renewal of mind.22

Each one therefore ought to be more radically converted to the Gospel and,

without ever losing sight of God's plan, change his or her way of looking

at things. Thanks to ecumenism, our contemplation of "the mighty works of

God" (mirabilia Dei) has been enriched by new horizons, for which the

Triune God calls us to give thanks: the knowledge that the Spirit is at

work in other Christian Communities, the discovery of examples of

holiness, the experience of the immense riches present in the communion of

saints, and contact with unexpected dimensions of Christian commitment. In

a corresponding way, there is an increased sense of the need for

repentance: an awareness of certain exclusions which seriously harm

fraternal charity, of certain refusals to forgive, of a certain pride, of

an unevangelical insistence on condemning the "other side", of a disdain

born of an unhealthy presumption. Thus, the entire life of Christians is

marked by a concern for ecumenism; and they are called to let themselves

be shaped, as it were, by that concern.

16. In the teaching of the Second Vatican Council there is a clear

connection between renewal, conversion and reform. The Council states that

"Christ summons the Church, as she goes her pilgrim way, to that continual

reformation of which she always has need, insofar as she is an institution

of human beings here on earth. Therefore, if the influence of events or of

the times has led to deficiencies ... these should be appropriately

rectified at the proper moment".23 No Christian Community can exempt

itself from this call.

By engaging in frank dialogue, Communities help one another to look at

themselves together in the light of the Apostolic Tradition. This leads

them to ask themselves whether they truly express in an adequate way all

that the Holy Spirit has transmitted through the Apostles.24 With regard

to the Catholic Church, I have frequently recalled these obligations and

perspectives, as for example on the anniversary of the Baptism of Kievan

Rus' 25 or in commemorating the eleven hundred years since the

evangelizing activity of Saints Cyril and Methodius.26 More recently, the

Directory for the Application of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism, issued

with my approval by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity,

has applied them to the pastoral sphere.27

17. With regard to other Christians, the principal documents of the

Commission on Faith and Order 28 and the statements of numerous bilateral

dialogues have already provided Christian Communities with useful tools

for discerning what is necessary to the ecumenical movement and to the

conversion which it must inspire. These studies are important from two

points of view: they demonstrate the remarkable progress already made, and

they are a source of hope inasmuch as they represent a sure foundation for

further study.

The increase of fellowship in a reform which is continuous and carried out

in the light of the Apostolic Tradition is certainly, in the present

circumstances of Christians, one of the distinctive and most important

aspects of ecumenism. Moreover, it is an essential guarantee for its

future. The faithful of the Catholic Church cannot forget that the

ecumenical thrust of the Second Vatican Council is one consequence of all

that the Church at that time committed herself to doing in order to

re-examine herself in the light of the Gospel and the great Tradition. My

Predecessor, Pope John XXIII, understood this clearly: in calling the

Council, he refused to separate renewal from ecumenical openness.29 At the

conclusion of the Council, Pope Paul VI solemnly sealed the Council's

commitment to ecumenism, renewing the dialogue of charity with the

Churches in communion with the Patriarch of Constantinople, and joining

the Patriarch in the concrete and profoundly significant gesture which

"condemned to oblivion" and "removed from memory and from the midst of the

Church" the excommunications of the past. It is worth recalling that the

establishment of a special body for ecumenical matters coincided with the

launching of preparations for the Second Vatican Council 30 and that

through this body the opinions and judgments of the other Christian

Communities played a part in the great debates about Revelation, the

Church, the nature of ecumenism and religious freedom.

The fundamental importance of doctrine

18. Taking up an idea expressed by Pope John XXIII at the opening of the

Council,31 the Decree on Ecumenism mentions the way of formulating

doctrine as one of the elements of a continuing reform.32 Here it is not a

question of altering the deposit of faith, changing the meaning of dogmas,

eliminating essential words from them, accommodating truth to the

preferences of a particular age, or suppressing certain articles of the

Creed under the false pretext that they are no longer understood today.

The unity willed by God can be attained only by the adherence of all to

the content of revealed faith in its entirety. In matters of faith,

compromise is in contradiction with God who is Truth. In the Body of

Christ, "the way, and the truth, and the life" (Jn 14:6), who could

consider legitimate a reconciliation brought about at the expense of the

truth? The Council's Declaration on Religious Freedom Dignitatis Humanae

attributes to human dignity the quest for truth, "especially in what

concerns God and his Church",33 and adherence to truth's demands. A "being

together" which betrayed the truth would thus be opposed both to the

nature of God who offers his communion and to the need for truth found in

the depths of every human heart.

19. Even so, doctrine needs to be presented in a way that makes it

understandable to those for whom God himself intends it. In my Encyclical

Epistle Slavorum Apostoli, I recalled that this was the very reason why

Saints Cyril and Methodius laboured to translate the ideas of the Bible

and the concepts of Greek theology in the context of very different

historical experiences and ways of thinking. They wanted the one word of

God to be "made accessible in each civilization's own forms of

expression".34 They recognized that they could not therefore "impose on

the peoples assigned to their preaching either the undeniable superiority

of the Greek language and Byzantine culture, or the customs and way of

life of the more advanced society in which they had grown up".35 Thus they

put into practice that "perfect communion in love which preserves the

Church from all forms of particularism, ethnic exclusivism or racial

prejudice, and from any nationalistic arrogance".36 In the same spirit, I

did not hesitate to say to the Aboriginal Peoples of Australia: "You do

not have to be divided into two parts ... Jesus calls you to accept his

words and his values into your own culture".37 Because by its nature the

content of faith is meant for all humanity, it must be translated into all

cultures. Indeed, the element which determines communion in truth is the

meaning of truth. The expression of truth can take different forms. The

renewal of these forms of expression becomes necessary for the sake of

transmitting to the people of today the Gospel message in its unchanging

meaning.38

"This renewal therefore has notable ecumenical significance".39 And not

only renewal in which the faith is expressed, but also of the very life of

faith. It might therefore be asked: who is responsible for doing this? To

this question the Council replies clearly: "Concern for restoring unity

pertains to the whole Church, faithful and clergy alike. It extends to

everyone, according to the ability of each, whether it be exercised in

daily Christian living or in theological and historical studies".40

20. All this is extremely important and of fundamental significance for

ecumenical activity. Thus it is absolutely clear that ecumenism, the

movement promoting Christian unity, is not just some sort of "appendix"

which is added to the Church's traditional activity. Rather, ecumenism is

an organic part of her life and work, and consequently must pervade all

that she is and does; it must be like the fruit borne by a healthy and

flourishing tree which grows to its full stature.

This is what Pope John XIII believed about the unity of the Church and how

he saw full Christian unity. With regard to other Christians, to the great

Christian family, he observed: "What unites us is much greater than what

divides us". The Second Vatican Council for its part exhorts "all Christ's

faithful to remember that the more purely they strive to live according to

the Gospel, the more they are fostering and even practising Christian

unity. For they can achieve depth and ease in strengthening mutual

brotherhood to the degree that they enjoy profound communion with the

Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit".41

The primacy of prayer

21. "This change of heart and holiness of life, along with public and

private prayer for the unity of Christians, should be regarded as the soul

of the whole ecumenical movement, and can rightly be called 'spiritual

ecumenism' ".42

We proceed along the road leading to the conversion of hearts guided by

love which is directed to God and, at the same time, to all our brothers

and sisters, including those not in full communion with us. Love gives

rise to the desire for unity, even in those who have never been aware of

the need for it. Love builds communion between individuals and between

Communities. If we love one another, we strive to deepen our communion and

make it perfect. Love is given to God as the perfect source of

communion—the unity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit—that we may draw from

that source the strength to build communion between individuals and

Communities, or to re-establish it between Christians still divided. Love

is the great undercurrent which gives life and adds vigour to the movement

towards unity.

This love finds its most complete expression in common prayer. When

brothers and sisters who are not in perfect communion with one another

come together to pray, the Second Vatican Council defines their prayer as

the soul of the whole ecumenical movement. This prayer is "a very

effective means of petitioning for the grace of unity", "a genuine

expression of the ties which even now bind Catholics to their separated

brethren".43 Even when prayer is not specifically offered for Christian

unity, but for other intentions such as peace, it actually becomes an

expression and confirmation of unity. The common prayer of Christians is

an invitation to Christ himself to visit the community of those who call

upon him: "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the

midst of them" (Mt 18:20).

22. When Christians pray together, the goal of unity seems closer. The

long history of Christians marked by many divisions seems to converge once

more because it tends towards that Source of its unity which is Jesus

Christ. He "is the same yesterday, today and forever!" (Heb 13:8). In the

fellowship of prayer Christ is truly present; he prays "in us", "with us"

and "for us". It is he who leads our prayer in the Spirit-Consoler whom he

promised and then bestowed on his Church in the Upper Room in Jerusalem,

when he established her in her original unity.

Along the ecumenical path to unity, pride of place certainly belongs to

common prayer, the prayerful union of those who gather together around

Christ himself. If Christians, despite their divisions, can grow ever more

united in common prayer around Christ, they will grow in the awareness of

how little divides them in comparison to what unites them. If they meet

more often and more regularly before Christ in prayer, they will be able

to gain the courage to face all the painful human reality of their

divisions, and they will find themselves together once more in that

community of the Church which Christ constantly builds up in the Holy

Spirit, in spite of all weaknesses and human limitations.

23. Finally, fellowship in prayer leads people to look at the Church and

Christianity in a new way. It must not be forgotten in fact that the Lord

prayed to the Father that his disciples might be one, so that their unity

might bear witness to his mission and the world would believe that the

Father had sent him (cf. Jn 17:21). It can be said that the ecumenical

movement in a certain sense was born out of the negative experience of

each one of those who, in proclaiming the one Gospel, appealed to his own

Church or Ecclesial Community. This was a contradiction which could not

escape those who listened to the message of salvation and found in this

fact an obstacle to acceptance of the Gospel. Regrettably, this grave

obstacle has not been overcome. It is true that we are not yet in full

communion. And yet, despite our divisions, we are on the way towards full

unity, that unity which marked the Apostolic Church at its birth and which

we sincerely seek. Our common prayer, inspired by faith, is proof of this.

In that prayer, we gather together in the name of Christ who is One. He is

our unity.

"Ecumenical" prayer is at the service of the Christian mission and its

credibility. It must thus be especially present in the life of the Church

and in every activity aimed at fostering Christian unity. It is as if we

constantly need to go back and meet in the Upper Room of Holy Thursday,

even though our presence together in that place will not be perfect until

the obstacles to full ecclesial communion are overcome and all Christians

can gather together in the common celebration of the Eucharist.44

24. It is a source of joy to see that the many ecumenical meetings almost

always include and indeed culminate in prayer. The Week of Prayer for

Christian Unity, celebrated in January or, in some countries, around

Pentecost, has become a widespread and well established tradition. But

there are also many other occasions during the year when Christians are

led to pray together. In this context, I wish to mention the special

experience of the Pope's pilgrimages to the various Churches in the

different continents and countries of the present-day oikoumene. I am very

conscious that it was the Second Vatican Council which led the Pope to

exercise his apostolic ministry in this particular way. Even more can be

said. The Council made these visits of the Pope a specific responsibility

in carrying out the role of the Bishop of Rome at the service of

communion.45 My visits have almost always included an ecumenical meeting

and common prayer with our brothers and sisters who seek unity in Christ

and in his Church. With profound emotion I remember praying together with

the Primate of the Anglican Communion at Canterbury Cathedral (29 May

1982); in that magnificent edifice, I saw "an eloquent witness both to our

long years of common inheritance and to the sad years of division that

followed".46 Nor can I forget the meetings held in the Scandinavian and

Nordic Countries (1-10 June 1989), in North and South America and in

Africa, and at the headquarters of the World Council of Churches (12 June

1984), the organization committed to calling its member Churches and

Ecclesial Communities "to the goal of visible unity in one faith and in

one Eucharistic fellowship expressed in worship and in common life in

Christ".47 And how could I ever forget taking part in the Eucharistic

Liturgy in the Church of Saint George at the Ecumenical Patriarchate (30

November 1979), and the service held in Saint Peter's Basilica during the

visit to Rome of my Venerable Brother, Patriarch Dimitrios I (6 December

1987)? On that occasion, at the Altar of the Confession, we recited

together the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed according to its original

Greek text. It is hard to describe in a few words the unique nature of

each of these occasions of prayer. Given the differing ways in which each

of these meetings was conditioned by past events, each had its own special

eloquence. They have all become part of the Church's memory as she is

guided by the Paraclete to seek the full unity of all believers in Christ.

25. It is not just the Pope who has become a pilgrim. In recent years,

many distinguished leaders of other Churches and Ecclesial Communities

have visited me in Rome, and I have been able to join them in prayer, both

in public and in private. I have already mentioned the visit of the

Ecumenical Patriarch Dimitrios I. I would now like to recall the prayer

meeting, also held in Saint Peter's Basilica, at which I joined the

Lutheran Archbishops, the Primates of Sweden and Finland, for the

celebration of Vespers on the occasion of the Sixth Centenary of the

Canonization of Saint Birgitta (5 October 1991). This is just one example,

because awareness of the duty to pray for unity has become an integral

part of the Church's life. There is no important or significant event

which does not benefit from Christians coming together and praying. It is

impossible for me to give a complete list of such meetings, even though

each one deserves to be mentioned. Truly the Lord has taken us by the hand

and is guiding us. These exchanges and these prayers have already written

pages and pages of our "Book of unity", a "Book" which we must constantly

return to and re-read so as to draw from it new inspiration and hope.

26. Prayer, the community at prayer, enables us always to discover anew

the evangelical truth of the words: "You have one Father" (Mt 23:9), the

Father—Abba—invoked by Christ himself, the Only-begotten and

Consubstantial Son. And again: "You have one teacher, and you are all

brethren" (Mt 23:8). "Ecumenical" prayer discloses this fundamental

dimension of brotherhood in Christ, who died to gather together the

children of God who were scattered, so that in becoming "sons and

daughters in the Son" (cf. Eph 1:5) we might show forth more fully both

the mysterious reality of God's fatherhood and the truth about the human

nature shared by each and every individual.

"Ecumenical" prayer, as the prayer of brothers and sisters, expresses all

this. Precisely because they are separated from one another, they meet in

Christ with all the more hope, entrusting to him the future of their unity

and their communion. Here too we can appropriately apply the teaching of

the Council: "The Lord Jesus, when he prayed to the Father 'that all may

be one ... as we are one' (Jn 17:21-22), opened up vistas closed to human

reason. For he implied a certain likeness between the union of the Divine

Persons, and the union of God's children in truth and charity".48

The change of heart which is the essential condition for every authentic

search for unity flows from prayer and its realization is guided by

prayer: "For it is from newness of attitudes, from self-denial and

unstinted love, that yearnings for unity take their rise and grow towards

maturity. We should therefore pray to the divine Spirit for the grace to

be genuinely self-denying, humble, gentle in the service of others, and to

have an attitude of brotherly generosity towards them".49

27. Praying for unity is not a matter reserved only to those who actually

experience the lack of unity among Christians. In the deep personal

dialogue which each of us must carry on with the Lord in prayer, concern

for unity cannot be absent. Only in this way, in fact, will that concern

fully become part of the reality of our life and of the commitments we

have taken on in the Church. It was in order to reaffirm this duty that I

set before the faithful of the Catholic Church a model which I consider

exemplary, the model of a Trappistine Sister, Blessed Maria Gabriella of

Unity, whom I beatified on 25 January 1983.50 Sister Maria Gabriella,

called by her vocation to be apart from the world, devoted her life to

meditation and prayer centered on chapter seventeen of Saint John's

Gospel, and offered her life for Christian unity. This is truly the

cornerstone of all prayer: the total and unconditional offering of one's

life to the Father, through the Son, in the Holy Spirit. The example of

Sister Maria Gabriella is instructive; it helps us to understand that

there are no special times, situations or places of prayer for unity.

Christ's prayer to the Father is offered as a model for everyone, always

and everywhere.

Ecumenical dialogue

28. If prayer is the "soul" of ecumenical renewal and of the yearning for

unity, it is the basis and support for everything the Council defines as

"dialogue". This definition is certainly not unrelated to today's

personalist way of thinking. The capacity for "dialogue" is rooted in the

nature of the person and his dignity. As seen by philosophy, this approach

is linked to the Christian truth concerning man as expressed by the

Council: man is in fact "the only creature on earth which God willed for

itself"; thus he cannot "fully find himself except through a sincere gift

of himself".51 Dialogue is an indispensable step along the path towards

human self-realization, the self-realization both of each individual and

of every human community. Although the concept of "dialogue" might appear

to give priority to the cognitive dimension (dia-logos), all dialogue

implies a global, existential dimension. It involves the human subject in

his or her entirety; dialogue between communities involves in a particular

way the subjectivity of each.

This truth about dialogue, so profoundly expressed by Pope Paul VI in his

Encyclical Ecclesiam Suam,52 was also taken up by the Council in its

teaching and ecumenical activity. Dialogue is not simply an exchange of

ideas. In some way it is always an "exchange of gifts".53

29. For this reason, the Council's Decree on Ecumenism also emphasizes the

importance of "every effort to eliminate words, judgments, and actions

which do not respond to the condition of separated brethren with truth and

fairness and so make mutual relations between them more difficult".54 The

Decree approaches the question from the standpoint of the Catholic Church

and refers to the criteria which she must apply in relation to other

Christians. In all this, however, reciprocity is required. To follow these

criteria is a commitment of each of the parties which desire to enter into

dialogue and it is a precondition for starting such dialogue. It is

necessary to pass from antagonism and conflict to a situation where each

party recognizes the other as a partner. When undertaking dialogue, each

side must presuppose in the other a desire for reconciliation, for unity

in truth. For this to happen, any display of mutual opposition must

disappear. Only thus will dialogue help to overcome division and lead us

closer to unity.

30. It can be said, with a sense of lively gratitude to the Spirit of

Truth, that the Second Vatican Council was a blessed time, during which

the bases for the Catholic Church's participation in ecumenical dialogue

were laid. At the same time, the presence of many observers from various

Churches and Ecclesial Communities, their deep involvement in the events

of the Council, the many meetings and the common prayer which the Council

made possible, also helped bring about the conditions for dialogue with

one another. During the Council, the representatives of other Churches and

Ecclesial Communities experienced the readiness of the worldwide Catholic

Episcopate, and in particular of the Apostolic See, to engage in dialogue.

Local structures of dialogue

31. The Church's commitment to ecumenical dialogue, as it has clearly

appeared since the Council, far from being the responsibility of the

Apostolic See alone, is also the duty of individual local or particular

Churches. Special commissions for fostering the ecumenical spirit and

ecumenical activity have been set up by the Bishops' Conferences and the

Synods of the Eastern Catholic Churches. Suitable structures similar to

these are operating in individual Dioceses. These initiatives are a sign

of the widespread practical commitment of the Catholic Church to apply the

Council's guidelines on ecumenism: this is an essential aspect of the

ecumenical movement.55 Dialogue has not only been undertaken; it has

become an outright necessity, one of the Church's priorities. As a result,

the "methods" of dialogue have been improved, which in turn has helped the

spirit of dialogue to grow. In this context mention has to be made in the

first place of "dialogue between competent experts from different Churches

and Communities. In their meetings, which are organized in a religious

spirit, each explains the teaching of his Communion in greater depth and

brings out clearly its distinctive features".56 Moreover, it is useful for

all the faithful to be familiar with the method which makes dialogue

possible.

32. As the Council's Declaration on Religious Freedom affirms: "Truth is

to be sought after in a manner proper to the dignity of the human person

and his social nature. The inquiry is to be free, carried on with the aid

of teaching or instruction, communication, and dialogue. In the course of

these, people explain to one another the truth they have discovered, or

think they have discovered, in order thus to assist one another in the

quest for truth. Moreover, as the truth is discovered, it is by a personal

assent that individuals are to adhere to it".57

Ecumenical dialogue is of essential importance. "Through such dialogue

everyone gains a truer knowledge and more just appreciation of the

teaching and religious life of both Communions. In addition, these

Communions cooperate more closely in whatever projects a Christian

conscience demands for the common good. They also come together for common

prayer, where that is permitted. Finally, all are led to examine their own

faithfulness to Christ's will for the Church and, wherever necessary,

undertake with vigour the tasks of renewal and reform".58

Dialogue as an examination of conscience

33. In the Council's thinking, ecumenical dialogue is marked by a common

quest for truth, particularly concerning the Church. In effect, truth

forms consciences and directs efforts to promote unity. At the same time,

it demands that the consciences and actions of Christians, as brethren

divided from one another, should be inspired by and submissive to Christ's

prayer for unity. There is a close relationship between prayer and

dialogue. Deeper and more conscious prayer makes dialogue more fruitful.

If on the one hand, dialogue depends on prayer, so, in another sense,

prayer also becomes the ever more mature fruit of dialogue.

34. Thanks to ecumenical dialogue we can speak of a greater maturity in

our common prayer for one another. This is possible inasmuch as dialogue

also serves as an examination of conscience. In this context, how can we

fail to recall the words of the First Letter of John? "If we say we have

no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess

our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse

us from all unrighteousness" (1:8-9). John even goes so far as to state:

"If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is

not in us" (1:10). Such a radical exhortation to acknowledge our condition

as sinners ought also to mark the spirit which we bring to ecumenical

dialogue. If such dialogue does not become an examination of conscience, a

kind of "dialogue of consciences", can we count on the assurance which the

First Letter of John gives us? "My little children, I am writing this to

you so that you may not sin; but if any one does sin, we have an advocate

with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the expiation for

our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world"

(2:1-2). All the sins of the world were gathered up in the saving

sacrifice of Christ, including the sins committed against the Church's

unity: the sins of Christians, those of the pastors no less than those of

the lay faithful. Even after the many sins which have contributed to our

historical divisions, Christian unity is possible, provided that we are

humbly conscious of having sinned against unity and are convinced of our

need for conversion. Not only personal sins must be forgiven and left

behind, but also social sins, which is to say the sinful "structures"

themselves which have contributed and can still contribute to division and

to the reinforcing of division.

35. Here once again the Council proves helpful. It can be said that the

entire Decree on Ecumenism is permeated by the spirit of conversion.59 In

the Document, ecumenical dialogue takes on a specific characteristic; it

becomes a "dialogue of conversion", and thus, in the words of Pope Paul

VI, an authentic "dialogue of salvation".60 Dialogue cannot take place

merely on a horizontal level, being restricted to meetings, exchanges of

points of view or even the sharing of gifts proper to each Community. It

has also a primarily vertical thrust, directed towards the One who, as the

Redeemer of the world and the Lord of history, is himself our

Reconciliation. This vertical aspect of dialogue lies in our

acknowledgment, jointly and to each other, that we are men and women who

have sinned. It is precisely this acknowledgment which creates in brothers

and sisters living in Communities not in full communion with one another

that interior space where Christ, the source of the Church's unity, can

effectively act, with all the power of his Spirit, the Paraclete.

Dialogue as a means of resolving disagreements

36. Dialogue is also a natural instrument for comparing differing points

of view and, above all, for examining those disagreements which hinder

full communion between Christians. The Decree on Ecumenism dwells in the

first place on a description of the attitudes under which doctrinal

discussions should take place: "Catholic theologians engaged in ecumenical

dialogue, while standing fast by the teaching of the Church and searching

together with separated brothers and sisters into the divine mysteries,

should act with love for truth, with charity, and with humility".61

Love for the truth is the deepest dimension of any authentic quest for

full communion between Christians. Without this love it would be

impossible to face the objective theological, cultural, psychological and

social difficulties which appear when disagreements are examined. This

dimension, which is interior and personal, must be inseparably accompanied

by a spirit of charity and humility. There must be charity towards one's

partner in dialogue, and humility with regard to the truth which comes to

light and which might require a review of assertions and attitudes.

With regard to the study of areas of disagreement, the Council requires

that the whole body of doctrine be clearly presented. At the same time, it

asks that the manner and method of expounding the Catholic faith should

not be a hindrance to dialogue with our brothers and sisters.62 Certainly

it is possible to profess one's faith and to explain its teaching in a way

that is correct, fair and understandable, and which at the same time takes

into account both the way of thinking and the actual historical

experiences of the other party.

Full communion of course will have to come about through the acceptance of

the whole truth into which the Holy Spirit guides Christ's disciples.

Hence all forms of reductionism or facile "agreement" must be absolutely

avoided. Serious questions must be resolved, for if not, they will

reappear at another time, either in the same terms or in a different

guise.

37. The Decree Unitatis Redintegratio also indicates a criterion to be

followed when Catholics are presenting or comparing doctrines: "They

should remember that in Catholic teaching there exists an order or

'hierarchy' of truths, since they vary in their relationship to the

foundation of the Christian faith. Thus the way will be opened for this

kind of fraternal rivalry to incite all to a deeper realization and a

clearer expression of the unfathomable riches of Christ".63

38. In dialogue, one inevitably comes up against the problem of the

different formulations whereby doctrine is expressed in the various

Churches and Ecclesial Communities. This has more than one consequence for

the work of ecumenism.

In the first place, with regard to doctrinal formulations which differ

from those normally in use in the community to which one belongs, it is

certainly right to determine whether the words involved say the same

thing. This has been ascertained in the case for example of the recent

common declarations signed by my Predecessors or by myself with the

Patriarchs of Churches with which for centuries there have been disputes

about Christology. As far as the formulation of revealed truths is

concerned, the Declaration Mysterium Ecclesiae states: "Even though the

truths which the Church intends to teach through her dogmatic formulas are

distinct from the changeable conceptions of a given epoch and can be

expressed without them, nevertheless it can sometimes happen that these

truths may be enunciated by the Sacred Magisterium in terms that bear

traces of such conceptions. In view of this, it must be stated that the

dogmatic formulas of the Church's Magisterium were from the very beginning

suitable for communicating revealed truth, and that as they are they

remain for ever suitable for communicating this truth to those who

interpret them correctly".64 In this regard, ecumenical dialogue, which

prompts the parties involved to question each other, to understand each

other and to explain their positions to each other, makes surprising

discoveries possible. Intolerant polemics and controversies have made

incompatible assertions out of what was really the result of two different

ways of looking at the same reality. Nowadays we need to find the formula

which, by capturing the reality in its entirety, will enable us to move

beyond partial readings and eliminate false interpretations.

One of the advantages of ecumenism is that it helps Christian Communities

to discover the unfathomable riches of the truth. Here too, everything

that the Spirit brings about in "others" can serve for the building up of

all Communities 65 and in a certain sense instruct them in the mystery of

Christ. Authentic ecumenism is a gift at the service of truth.

39. Finally, dialogue puts before the participants real and genuine

disagreements in matters of faith. Above all, these disagreements should

be faced in a sincere spirit of fraternal charity, of respect for the

demands of one's own conscience and of the conscience of the other party,

with profound humility and love for the truth. The examination of such

disagreements has two essential points of reference: Sacred Scripture and

the great Tradition of the Church. Catholics have the help of the Church's

living Magisterium.

Practical cooperation

40. Relations between Christians are not aimed merely at mutual knowledge,

common prayer and dialogue. They presuppose and from now on call for every

possible form of practical cooperation at all levels: pastoral, cultural

and social, as well as that of witnessing to the Gospel message.66

"Cooperation among all Christians vividly expresses that bond which

already unites them, and it sets in clearer relief the features of Christ

the Servant".67 This cooperation based on our common faith is not only

filled with fraternal communion, but is a manifestation of Christ himself.

Moreover, ecumenical cooperation is a true school of ecumenism, a dynamic

road to unity. Unity of action leads to the full unity of faith: "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".68

In the eyes of the world, cooperation among Christians becomes a form of

common Christian witness and a means of evangelization which benefits all

involved.

CHAPTER II - THE FRUITS OF DIALOGUE

Brotherhood rediscovered

41. What has been said above about ecumenical dialogue since the end of

the Council inspires us to give thanks to the Spirit of Truth promised by

Christ the Lord to the Apostles and the Church (cf. Jn 14:26). It is the

first time in history that efforts on behalf of Christian unity have taken

on such great proportions and have become so extensive. This is truly an

immense gift of God, one which deserves all our gratitude. From the

fullness of Christ we receive "grace upon grace" (Jn 1:16). An

appreciation of how much God has already given is the condition which

disposes us to receive those gifts still indispensable for bringing to

completion the ecumenical work of unity.

An overall view of the last thirty years enables us better to appreciate

many of the fruits of this common conversion to the Gospel which the

Spirit of God has brought about by means of the ecumenical movement.

42. It happens for example that, in the spirit of the Sermon on the Mount,

Christians of one confession no longer consider other Christians as

enemies or strangers but see them as brothers and sisters. Again, the very

expression separated brethren tends to be replaced today by expressions

which more readily evoke the deep communion — linked to the baptismal

character — which the Spirit fosters in spite of historical and canonical

divisions. Today we speak of "other Christians", "others who have received

Baptism", and "Christians of other Communities". The Directory for the

Application of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism refers to the Communities

to which these Christians belong as "Churches and Ecclesial Communities

that are not in full communion with the Catholic Church".69 This

broadening of vocabulary is indicative of a significant change in

attitudes. There is an increased awareness that we all belong to Christ. I

have personally been able many times to observe this during the ecumenical

celebrations which are an important part of my Apostolic Visits to various

parts of the world, and also in the meetings and ecumenical celebrations

which have taken place in Rome. The "universal brotherhood" of Christians

has become a firm ecumenical conviction. Consigning to oblivion the

excommunications of the past, Communities which were once rivals are now

in many cases helping one another: places of worship are sometimes lent

out; scholarships are offered for the training of ministers in the

Communities most lacking in resources; approaches are made to civil

authorities on behalf of other Christians who are unjustly persecuted; and

the slander to which certain groups are subjected is shown to be

unfounded.

In a word, Christians have been converted to a fraternal charity which

embraces all Christ's disciples. If it happens that, as a result of

violent political disturbances, a certain aggressiveness or a spirit of

vengeance appears, the leaders of the parties in question generally work

to make the "New Law" of the spirit of charity prevail. Unfortunately,

this spirit has not been able to transform every situation where brutal

conflict rages. In such circumstances those committed to ecumenism are

often required to make choices which are truly heroic.

It needs be reaffirmed in this regard that acknowledging our brotherhood

is not the consequence of a large-hearted philanthropy or a vague family

spirit. It is rooted in recognition of the oneness of Baptism and the

subsequent duty to glorify God in his work. The Directory for the

Application of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism expresses the hope that

Baptisms will be mutually and officially recognized.70 This is something

much more than an act of ecumenical courtesy; it constitutes a basic

ecclesiological statement.

It is fitting to recall that the fundamental role of Baptism in building

up the Church has been clearly brought out thanks also to multilateral

dialogues.71

Solidarity in the service of humanity

43. It happens more and more often that the leaders of Christian

Communities join together in taking a stand in the name of Christ on

important problems concerning man's calling and on freedom, justice,

peace, and the future of the world. In this way they "communicate" in one

of the tasks which constitutes the mission of Christians: that of

reminding society of God's will in a realistic manner, warning the

authorities and their fellow-citizens against taking steps which would

lead to the trampling of human rights. It is clear, as experience shows,

that in some circumstances the united voice of Christians has more impact

than any one isolated voice.

Nor are the leaders of Communities the only ones joined in the work for

unity. Many Christians from all Communities, by reason of their faith, are

jointly involved in bold projects aimed at changing the world by

inculcating respect for the rights and needs of everyone, especially the

poor, the lowly and the defenceless. In my Encyclical Letter Sollicitudo

Rei Socialis, I was pleased to note this cooperation, stressing that the

Catholic Church cannot fail to take part in these efforts.72 In effect,

Christians who once acted independently are now engaged together in the

service of this cause, so that God's mercy may triumph.

This way of thinking and acting is already that of the Gospel. Hence,

reaffirming what I wrote in my first Encyclical Letter Redemptor Hominis,

I have had occasion "to insist on this point and to encourage every effort

made in this direction, at all levels where we meet our other brother

Christians".73 I have thanked God "for what he has already accomplished in

the other Churches and Ecclesial Communities and through them", as well as

through the Catholic Church.74 Today I see with satisfaction that the

already vast network of ecumenical cooperation is constantly growing.

Thanks also to the influence of the World Council of Churches, much is

being accomplished in this field.

Approaching one another through the Word of God and through divine worship

44. Significant progress in ecumenical cooperation has also been made in

another area, that of the Word of God. I am thinking above all of the

importance for the different language groups of ecumenical translations of

the Bible. Following the promulgation by the Second Vatican Council of the

Constitution Dei Verbum, the Catholic Church could not fail to welcome

this development.75 These translations, prepared by experts, generally

offer a solid basis for the prayer and pastoral activity of all Christ's

followers. Anyone who recalls how heavily debates about Scripture

influenced divisions, especially in the West, can appreciate the

significant step forward which these common translations represent.

45. Corresponding to the liturgical renewal carried out by the Catholic

Church, certain other Ecclesial Communities have made efforts to renew

their worship. Some, on the basis of a recommendation expressed at the

ecumenical level,76 have abandoned the custom of celebrating their liturgy

of the Lord's Supper only infrequently and have opted for a celebration

each Sunday. Again, when the cycles of liturgical readings used by the

various Christian Communities in the West are compared, they appear to be

essentially the same. Still on the ecumenical level,77 very special

prominence has been given to the liturgy and liturgical signs (images,

icons, vestments, light, incense, gestures). Moreover, in schools of

theology where future ministers are trained, courses in the history and

significance of the liturgy are beginning to be part of the curriculum in

response to a newly discovered need.

These are signs of convergence which regard various aspects of the

sacramental life. Certainly, due to disagreements in matters of faith, it

is not yet possible to celebrate together the same Eucharistic Liturgy.

And yet we do have a burning desire to join in celebrating the one

Eucharist of the Lord, and this desire itself is already a common prayer

of praise, a single supplication. Together we speak to the Father and

increasingly we do so "with one heart". At times it seems that we are

closer to being able finally to seal this "real although not yet full"

communion. A century ago who could even have imagined such a thing?

46. In this context, it is a source of joy to note that Catholic ministers

are able, in certain particular cases, to administer the Sacraments of the

Eucharist, Penance and Anointing of the Sick to Christians who are not in

full communion with the Catholic Church but who greatly desire to receive

these sacraments, freely request them and manifest the faith which the

Catholic Church professes with regard to these sacraments. Conversely, in

specific cases and in particular circumstances, Catholics too can request

these same sacraments from ministers of Churches in which these sacraments

are valid. The conditions for such reciprocal reception have been laid

down in specific norms; for the sake of furthering ecumenism these norms

must be respected.78

Appreciating the endowments present among other Christians

47. Dialogue does not extend exclusively to matters of doctrine but

engages the whole person; it is also a dialogue of love. The Council has

stated: "Catholics must joyfully acknowledge and esteem the truly

Christian endowments from our common heritage which are to be found among

our separated brothers and sisters. It is right and salutary to recognize

the riches of Christ and virtuous works in the lives of others who are

bearing witness to Christ, sometimes even to the shedding of their blood.

For God is always wonderful in his works and worthy of admiration".79

48. The relationships which the members of the Catholic Church have

established with other Christians since the Council have enabled us to

discover what God is bringing about in the members of other Churches and

Ecclesial Communities. This direct contact, at a variety of levels, with

pastors and with the members of these Communities has made us aware of the

witness which other Christians bear to God and to Christ. A vast new field

has thus opened up for the whole ecumenical experience, which at the same

time is the great challenge of our time. Is not the twentieth century a

time of great witness, which extends "even to the shedding of blood"? And

does not this witness also involve the various Churches and Ecclesial

Communities which take their name from Christ, Crucified and Risen?

Such a joint witness of holiness, as fidelity to the one Lord, has an

ecumenical potential extraordinarily rich in grace. The Second Vatican

Council made it clear that elements present among other Christians can

contribute to the edification of Catholics: "Nor should we forget that

whatever is wrought by the grace of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of our

separated brothers and sisters can contribute to our own edification.

Whatever is truly Christian never conflicts with the genuine interests of

the faith; indeed, it can always result in a more ample realization of the

very mystery of Christ and the Church".80 Ecumenical dialogue, as a true

dialogue of salvation, will certainly encourage this process, which has

already begun well, to advance towards true and full communion.

The growth of communion

49. A valuable result of the contacts between Christians and of the

theological dialogue in which they engage is the growth of communion. Both

contacts and dialogue have made Christians aware of the elements of faith

which they have in common. This has served to consolidate further their

commitment to full unity. In all of this, the Second Vatican Council

remains a powerful source of incentive and orientation.

The Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium links its teaching on the Catholic

Church to an acknowledgment of the saving elements found in other Churches

and Ecclesial Communities.81 It is not a matter of becoming aware of

static elements passively present in those Churches and Communities.

Insofar as they are elements of the Church of Christ, these are by their

nature a force for the re-establishment of unity. Consequently, the quest

for Christian unity is not a matter of choice or expediency, but a duty

which springs from the very nature of the Christian community.

In a similar way, the bilateral theological dialogues carried on with the

major Christian Communities start from a recognition of the degree of

communion already present, in order to go on to discuss specific areas of

disagreement. The Lord has made it possible for Christians in our day to

reduce the number of matters traditionally in dispute.

Dialogue with the Churches of the East

50. In this regard, it must first be acknowledged, with particular

gratitude to Divine Providence, that our bonds with the Churches of the

East, weakened in the course of the centuries, were strengthened through

the Second Vatican Council. The observers from these Churches present at

the Council, together with representatives of the Churches and Ecclesial

Communities of the West, stated publicly, at that very solemn moment for

the Catholic Church, their common willingness to seek the re-establishment

of communion.

The Council, for its part, considered the Churches of the East with

objectivity and deep affection, stressing their ecclesial nature and the

real bonds of communion linking them with the Catholic Church. The Decree

on Ecumenism points out: "Through the celebration of the Eucharist of the

Lord in each of these Churches, the Church of God is built up and grows in

stature". It adds, as a consequence, that "although these Churches are

separated from us, they possess true sacraments, above all — by apostolic

succession — the priesthood and the Eucharist, whereby they are still

joined to us in a very close relationship".82

Speaking of the Churches of the East, the Council acknowledged their great

liturgical and spiritual tradition, the specific nature of their

historical development, the disciplines coming from the earliest times and

approved by the Holy Fathers and Ecumenical Councils, and their own

particular way of expressing their teaching. The Council made this

acknowledgement in the conviction that legitimate diversity is in no way

opposed to the Church's unity, but rather enhances her splendour and

contributes greatly to the fulfilment of her mission.

The Second Vatican Ecumenical Council wished to base dialogue on the

communion which already exists, and it draws attention to the noble

reality of the Churches of the East: "Therefore, this Sacred Synod urges

all, but especially those who plan to devote themselves to the work of

restoring the full communion that is desired between the Eastern Churches

and the Catholic Church, to give due consideration to these special

aspects of the origin and growth of the Churches of the East, and to the

character of the relations which obtained between them and the Roman See

before the separation, and to form for themselves a correct evaluation of

these facts".83

51. The Council's approach has proved fruitful both for the steady

maturing of fraternal relations through the dialogue of charity, and for

doctrinal discussion in the framework of the Joint International

Commission for the Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and

the Orthodox Church. It has likewise proved most fruitful in relations

with the Ancient Churches of the East.

The process has been slow and arduous, yet a source of great joy; and it

has been inspiring, for it has led to the gradual rediscovery of

brotherhood.

Resuming contacts

52. With regard to the Church of Rome and the Ecumenical Patriarchate of

Constantinople, the process which we have just mentioned began thanks to

the mutual openness demonstrated by Popes John XXIII and Paul VI on the

one hand, and by the Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras I and his successors

on the other. The resulting change found its historical expression in the

ecclesial act whereby "there was removed from memory and from the midst of

the Church" 84 the remembrance of the excommunications which nine hundred

years before, in 1054, had become the symbol of the schism between Rome

and Constantinople. That ecclesial event, so filled with ecumenical

commitment, took place during the last days of the Council, on 7 December

1965. The Council thus ended with a solemn act which was at once a healing

of historical memories, a mutual forgiveness, and a firm commitment to

strive for communion.

This gesture had been preceded by the meeting of Pope Paul VI and

Patriarch Athenagoras I in Jerusalem, in January 1964, during the Pope's

pilgrimage to the Holy Land. At that time Pope Paul was also able to meet

Benedictos, the Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem. Later, Pope Paul visited

Patriarch Athenagoras at the Phanar (Istanbul), on 25 July 1967, and in

October of the same year the Patriarch was solemnly received in Rome.

These prayer-filled meetings mapped out the path of rapprochement between

the Church of the East and the Church of the West, and of the

re-establishment of the unity they shared in the first millennium.

Following the death of Pope Paul VI and the brief pontificate of Pope John

I, when the ministry of Bishop of Rome was entrusted to me, I considered

it one of the first duties of my pontificate to renew personal contact

with the Ecumenical Patriarch Dimitrios I, who had meanwhile succeeded

Patriarch Athenagoras in the See of Constantinople. During my visit to the

Phanar on 29 November 1979, the Patriarch and I were able to decide to

begin theological dialogue between the Catholic Church and all the

Orthodox Churches in canonical communion with the See of Constantinople.

In this regard it would seem important to add that at that time

preparations were already under way for the convocation of a future

Council of the Orthodox Churches. The quest for harmony between them

contributes to the life and vitality of these sister Churches; this is

also significant in view of the role they are called to play in the path

towards unity. The Ecumenical Patriarch decided to repay my visit, and in

December 1987 I had the joy of welcoming him to Rome with deep affection

and with the solemnity due to him. It is in this context of ecclesial

fraternity that we should mention the practice, which has now been in

place for a number of years, of welcoming a delegation from the Ecumenical

Patriarchate to Rome for the Feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, as

well as the custom of sending a delegation of the Holy See to the Phanar

for the solemn celebration of Saint Andrew.

53. Among other things, these regular contacts permit a direct exchange of

information and opinions with a view to fostering fraternal coordination.

Furthermore, taking part together in prayer accustoms us once more to

living side by side and helps us in accepting and putting into practice

the Lord's will for his Church.

On the path which we have travelled since the Second Vatican Council, at

least two particularly telling events of great ecumenical significance for

relations between East and West should be mentioned. The first of these

was the 1984 Jubilee in commemoration of the eleventh centenary of the

evangelizing activity of Saints Cyril and Methodius, an occasion which

enabled me to proclaim the two Holy Apostles of the Slavs, those heralds

of faith, co-patrons of Europe. In 1964, during the Council, Pope Paul VI

had already proclaimed Saint Benedict patron of Europe. Associating the

two Brothers from Thessalonica with the great founder of Western

monasticism serves indirectly to highlight that twofold ecclesial and

cultural tradition which has proved so significant for the two thousand

years of Christianity which mark the history of Europe. Consequently it is

worth recalling that Saints Cyril and Methodius came from the background

of the Byzantine Church of their day, at a time when the latter was in

communion with Rome. In proclaiming them patrons of Europe, together with

Saint Benedict, it was my intention not only to reaffirm the historical

truth about Christianity in Europe, but also to provide an important topic

for the dialogue between East and West which has raised such high hopes in

the period since the Council. As in Saint Benedict, so in Saints Cyril and

Methodius, Europe can rediscover its spiritual roots. Now, as the second

millennium since the Birth of Christ draws to a close, they must be

venerated together, as the patrons of our past and as the Saints to whom

the Churches and nations of Europe entrust their future.

54. The other event which I am pleased to recall is the celebration of the

Millennium of the Baptism of Rus' (988-1988). The Catholic Church, and

this Apostolic See in particular, desired to take part in the Jubilee

celebrations and also sought to emphasize that the Baptism conferred on

Saint Vladimir in Kiev was a key event in the evangelization of the world.

The great Slav nations of Eastern Europe owe their faith to this event, as

do the peoples living beyond the Ural Mountains and as far as Alaska.

In this perspective an expression which I have frequently employed finds

its deepest meaning: the Church must breathe with her two lungs! In the

first millennium of the history of Christianity, this expression refers

primarily to the relationship between Byzantium and Rome. From the time of

the Baptism of Rus' it comes to have an even wider application:

evangelization spread to a much vaster area, so that it now includes the

entire Church. If we then consider that the salvific event which took

place on the banks of the Dnieper goes back to a time when the Church in

the East and the Church in the West were not divided, we understand

clearly that the vision of the full communion to be sought is that of

unity in legitimate diversity. This is what I strongly asserted in my

Encyclical Epistle Slavorum Apostoli 85 on Saints Cyril and Methodius and

in my Apostolic Letter Euntes in Mundum 86 addressed to the faithful of

the Catholic Church in commemoration of the Millennium of the Baptism of

Kievan Rus'.

Sister Churches

55. In its historical survey the Council Decree Unitatis Redintegratio has

in mind the unity which, in spite of everything, was experienced in the

first millennium and in a certain sense now serves as a kind of model.

"This most sacred Synod gladly reminds all ... that in the East there

flourish many particular or local Churches; among them the Patriarchal

Churches hold first place; and of these, many glory in taking their origin

from the Apostles themselves".87 The Church's journey began in Jerusalem

on the day of Pentecost and its original expansion in the oikoumene of

that time was centred around Peter and the Eleven (cf. Acts 2:14). The

structures of the Church in the East and in the West evolved in reference

to that Apostolic heritage. Her unity during the first millennium was

maintained within those same structures through the Bishops, Successors of

the Apostles, in communion with the Bishop of Rome. If today at the end of

the second millennium we are seeking to restore full communion, it is to

that unity, thus structured, which we must look.

The Decree on Ecumenism highlights a further distinctive aspect, thanks to

which all the particular Churches remained in unity: "an eager desire to

perpetuate in a communion of faith and charity those family ties which

ought to thrive between local Churches, as between sisters".88

56. Following the Second Vatican Council, and in the light of earlier

tradition, it has again become usual to refer to the particular or local

Churches gathered around their Bishop as "Sister Churches". In addition,

the lifting of the mutual excommunications, by eliminating a painful

canonical and psychological obstacle, was a very significant step on the

way towards full communion.

The structures of unity which existed before the separation are a heritage

of experience that guides our common path towards the re-establishment of

full communion. Obviously, during the second millennium the Lord has not

ceased to bestow on his Church abundant fruits of grace and growth.

Unfortunately, however, the gradual and mutual estrangement between the

Churches of the West and the East deprived them of the benefits of mutual

exchanges and cooperation. With the grace of God a great effort must be

made to re-establish full communion among them, the source of such good

for the Church of Christ. This effort calls for all our good will, humble

prayer and a steadfast cooperation which never yields to discouragement.

Saint Paul urges us: "Bear one another's burdens" (Gal 6:2). How

appropriate and relevant for us is the Apostle's exhortation! The

traditional designation of "Sister Churches" should ever accompany us

along this path.

57. In accordance with the hope expressed by Pope Paul VI, our declared

purpose is to re-establish together full unity in legitimate diversity:

"God has granted us to receive in faith what the Apostles saw, understood,

and proclaimed to us. By Baptism 'we are one in Christ Jesus' (Gal 3:28).

In virtue of the apostolic succession, we are united more closely by the

priesthood and the Eucharist. By participating in the gifts of God to his

Church we are brought into communion with the Father through the Son in

the Holy Spirit ... In each local Church this mystery of divine love is

enacted, and surely this is the ground of the traditional and very

beautiful expression 'Sister Churches', which local Churches were fond of

applying to one another (cf. Decree, Unitatis Redintegratio, 14). For

centuries we lived this life of 'Sister Churches', and together held

Ecumenical Councils which guarded the deposit of faith against all

corruption. And now, after a long period of division and mutual

misunderstanding, the Lord is enabling us to discover ourselves as 'Sister

Churches' once more, in spite of the obstacles which were once raised

between us".89 If today, on the threshold of the third millennium, we are

seeking the re-establishment of full communion, it is for the

accomplishment of this reality that we must work and it is to this reality

that we must refer.

Contact with this glorious tradition is most fruitful for the Church. As

the Council points out: "From their very origins the Churches of the East

have had a treasury from which the Church of the West has amply drawn for

its liturgy, spiritual tradition and jurisprudence".90

Part of this "treasury" are also "the riches of those spiritual traditions

to which monasticism gives special expression. From the glorious days of

the Holy Fathers, there flourished in the East that monastic spirituality

which later flowed over into the Western world".91 As I have had the

occasion to emphasize in my recent Apostolic Letter Orientale Lumen, the

Churches of the East have lived with great generosity the commitment shown

by monastic life, "starting with evangelization, the highest service that

the Christian can offer his brother, followed by many other forms of

spiritual and material service. Indeed it can be said that monasticism in

antiquity—and at various times in subsequent ages too—has been the

privileged means for the evangelization of peoples".92

The Council does not limit itself to emphasizing the elements of

similarity between the Churches in the East and in the West. In accord

with historical truth, it does not hesitate to say: "It is hardly

surprising if sometimes one tradition has come nearer than the other to an

apt appreciation of certain aspects of the revealed mystery or has

expressed them in a clearer manner. As a result, these various theological

formulations are often to be considered as complementary rather than

conflicting".93 Communion is made fruitful by the exchange of gifts

between the Churches insofar as they complement each other.

58. From the reaffirmation of an already existing communion of faith, the

Second Vatican Council drew pastoral consequences which are useful for the

everyday life of the faithful and for the promotion of the spirit of

unity. By reason of the very close sacramental bonds between the Catholic

Church and the Orthodox Churches, the Decree on Eastern Catholic Churches

Orientalium Ecclesiarum has stated: "Pastoral experience clearly shows

that with respect to our Eastern brethren there should and can be taken

into consideration various circumstances affecting individuals, wherein

the unity of the Church is not jeopardized nor are intolerable risks

involved, but in which salvation itself and the spiritual profit of souls

are urgently at issue. Hence, in view of special circumstances of time,

place and personage, the Catholic Church has often adopted and now adopts

a milder policy, offering to all the means of salvation and an example of

charity among Christians through participation in the Sacraments and in

other sacred functions and objects".94

In the light of experience gained in the years following the Council, this

theological and pastoral orientation has been incorporated into the two

Codes of Canon Law.95 It has been explicitly treated from the pastoral

standpoint in the Directory for the Application of Principles and Norms on

Ecumenism.96

In so important and sensitive a matter, it is necessary for Pastors to

instruct the faithful with care, making them clearly aware of the specific

reasons both for this sharing in liturgical worship and for the various

regulations which govern it.

There must never be a loss of appreciation for the ecclesiological

implication of sharing in the sacraments, especially in the Holy

Eucharist.

Progress in dialogue

59. Since its establishment in 1979, the Joint International Commission

for the Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox

Church has worked steadily, directing its study to areas decided upon by

mutual agreement, with the purpose of re-establishing full communion

between the two Churches. This communion which is founded on the unity of

faith, following in the footsteps of the experience and tradition of the

ancient Church, will find its fulfilment in the common celebration of the

Holy Eucharist. In a positive spirit, and on the basis of what we have in

common, the Joint Commission has been able to make substantial progress

and, as I was able to declare in union with my Venerable Brother, His

Holiness Dimitrios I, the Ecumenical Patriarch, it has concluded "that the

Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church can already profess together that

common faith in the mystery of the Church and the bond between faith and

sacraments".97 The Commission was then able to acknowledge that "in our

Churches apostolic succession is fundamental for the sanctification and

the unity of the people of God".98 These are important points of reference

for the continuation of the dialogue. Moreover, these joint affirmations

represent the basis for Catholics and Orthodox to be able from now on to

bear a faithful and united common witness in our time, that the name of

the Lord may be proclaimed and glorified.

60. More recently, the Joint International Commission took a significant

step forward with regard to the very sensitive question of the method to

be followed in re-establishing full communion between the Catholic Church

and the Orthodox Church, an issue which has frequently embittered

relations between Catholics and Orthodox. The Commission has laid the

doctrinal foundations for a positive solution to this problem on the basis

of the doctrine of Sister Churches. Here too it has become evident that

the method to be followed towards full communion is the dialogue of truth,

fostered and sustained by the dialogue of love. A recognition of the right

of the Eastern Catholic Churches to have their own organizational

structures and to carry out their own apostolate, as well as the actual

involvement of these Churches in the dialogue of charity and in

theological dialogue, will not only promote a true and fraternal mutual

esteem between Orthodox and Catholics living in the same territory, but

will also foster their joint commitment to work for unity.99 A step

forward has been taken. The commitment must continue. Already there are

signs of a lessening of tensions, which is making the quest for unity more

fruitful.

With regard to the Eastern Catholic Churches in communion with the

Catholic Church, the Council expressed its esteem in these terms: "While

thanking God that many Eastern sons of the Catholic Church ... are already

living in full communion with their brethren who follow the tradition of

the West, this sacred Synod declares that this entire heritage of

spirituality and liturgy, of discipline and theology, in their various

traditions, belongs to the full catholic and apostolic character of the

Church".100 Certainly the Eastern Catholic Churches, in the spirit of the

Decree on Ecumenism, will play a constructive role in the dialogue of love

and in the theological dialogue at both the local and international

levels, and thus contribute to mutual understanding and the continuing

pursuit of full unity.101

61. In view of all this, the Catholic Church desires nothing less than

full communion between East and West. She finds inspiration for this in

the experience of the first millennium. In that period, indeed, "the

development of different experiences of ecclesial life did not prevent

Christians, through mutual relations, from continuing to feel certain that

they were at home in any Church, because praise of the one Father, through

Christ in the Holy Spirit, rose from them all, in a marvellous variety of

languages and melodies; all were gathered together to celebrate the

Eucharist, the heart and model for the community regarding not only

spirituality and the moral life, but also the

Church's very structure, in the variety of ministries and services under

the leadership of the Bishop, successor of the Apostles. The first

Councils are an eloquent witness to this enduring unity in diversity".102

How can unity be restored after almost a thousand years? This is the great

task which the Catholic Church must accomplish, a task equally incumbent

on the Orthodox Church. Thus can be understood the continuing relevance of

dialogue, guided by the light and strength of the Holy Spirit.

Relations with the Ancient Churches of the East

62. In the period following the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic

Church has also, in different ways and with greater or lesser rapidity,

restored fraternal relations with the Ancient Churches of the East which

rejected the dogmatic formulations of the Councils of Ephesus and

Chalcedon. All these Churches sent official observers to the Second

Vatican Council; their Patriarchs have honoured us by their visits, and

the Bishop of Rome has been able to converse with them as with brothers

who, after a long time, joyfully meet again.

The return of fraternal relations with the Ancient Churches of the East

witnesses to the Christian faith in situations which are often hostile and

tragic. This is a concrete sign of how we are united in Christ in spite of

historical, political, social and cultural barriers. And precisely in

relation to Christology, we have been able to join the Patriarchs of some

of these Churches in declaring our common faith in Jesus Christ, true God

and true man. Pope Paul VI of venerable memory signed declarations to this

effect with His Holiness Shenouda III, the Coptic Orthodox Pope and

Patriarch,103 and with His Beatitude Jacoub III, the Syrian Orthodox

Patriarch of Antioch.104 I myself have been able to confirm this

Christological agreement and draw on it for the development of dialogue

with Pope Shenouda,105 and for pastoral cooperation with the Syrian

Patriarch of Antioch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas.106

When the Venerable Patriarch of the Ethiopian Church, Abuna Paulos, paid

me a visit in Rome on 11 June 1993, together we emphasized the deep

communion existing between our two Churches: "We share the faith handed

down from the Apostles, as also the same sacraments and the same ministry,

rooted in the apostolic succession ... Today, moreover, we can affirm that

we have the one faith in Christ, even though for a long time this was a

source of division between us".107

More recently, the Lord has granted me the great joy of signing a common

Christological declaration with the Assyrian Patriarch of the East, His

Holiness Mar Dinkha IV, who for this purpose chose to visit me in Rome in

November 1994. Taking into account the different theological formulations,

we were able to profess together the true faith in Christ.108 I wish to

express my joy at all this in the words of the Blessed Virgin: "My soul

proclaims the greatness of the Lord" (Lk 1:46).

63. Ecumenical contacts have thus made possible essential clarifications

with regard to the traditional controversies concerning Christology, so

much so that we have been able to profess together the faith which we have

in common. Once again it must be said that this important achievement is

truly a fruit of theological investigation and fraternal dialogue. And not

only this. It is an encouragement for us: for it shows us that the path

followed is the right one and that we can reasonably hope to discover

together the solution to other disputed questions.

Dialogue with other Churches and Ecclesial Communities in the West

64. In its great plan for the re-establishment of unity among all

Christians, the Decree on Ecumenism also speaks of relations with the

Churches and Ecclesial Communities of the West. Wishing to create a

climate of Christian fraternity and dialogue, the Council situates its

guidelines in the context of two general considerations: one of an

historical and psychological nature, and the other theological and

doctrinal. On the one hand, this Decree affirms: "The Churches and

Ecclesial Communities which were separated from the Apostolic See of Rome

during the very serious crisis that began in the West at the end of the

Middle Ages, or during later times, are bound to the Catholic Church by a

special affinity and close relationship in view of the long span of

earlier centuries when the Christian people lived in ecclesiastical

communion".109 On the other hand, with equal realism the same Document

states: "At the same time one should recognize that between these Churches

and Communities on the one hand, and the Catholic Church on the other,

there are very weighty differences not only of a historical, sociological,

psychological and cultural nature, but especially in the interpretation of

revealed truth".110

65. Common roots and similar, if distinct, considerations have guided the

development in the West of the Catholic Church and of the Churches and

Communities which have their origins in the Reformation. Consequently

these share the fact that they are "Western" in character. Their

"diversities", although significant as has been pointed out, do not

therefore preclude mutual interaction and complementarity.

The ecumenical movement really began within the Churches and Ecclesial

Communities of the Reform. At about the same time, in January, 1920, the

Ecumenical Patriarchate expressed the hope that some kind of cooperation

among the Christian Communions could be organized. This fact shows that

the weight of cultural background is not the decisive factor. What is

essential is the question of faith. The prayer of Christ, our one Lord,

Redeemer and Master, speaks to everyone in the same way, both in the East

and in the West. That prayer becomes an imperative to leave behind our

divisions in order to seek and re-establish unity, as a result also of the

bitter experiences of division itself.

66. The Second Vatican Council did not attempt to give a "description" of

post-Reformation Christianity, since "in origin, teaching and spiritual

practice, these Churches and Ecclesial Communities differ not only from us

but also among themselves to a considerable degree".111 Furthermore, the

Decree observes that the ecumenical movement and the desire for peace with

the Catholic Church have not yet taken root everywhere.112 These

circumstances notwithstanding, the Council calls for dialogue.

The Council Decree then seeks to "propose ... some considerations which

can and ought to serve as a basis and motivation for such dialogue".113

"Our thoughts are concerned ... with those Christians who openly confess

Jesus Christ as God and Lord and as the sole Mediator between God and man

unto the glory of the one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit".114

These brothers and sisters promote love and veneration for the Sacred

Scriptures: "Calling upon the Holy Spirit, they seek in these Sacred

Scriptures God as he speaks to them in Christ, the One whom the prophets

foretold, God's Word made flesh for us. In the Scriptures they contemplate

the life of Christ, as well as the teachings and the actions of the Divine

Master on behalf of the salvation of all, in particular the mysteries of

his Death and Resurrection ... They affirm the divine authority of the

Sacred Books".115

At the same time, however, they "think differently from us ... about the

relationship between the Scriptures and the Church. In the Church,

according to Catholic belief, an authentic teaching office plays a special

role in the explanation and proclamation of the written word of God".116

Even so, "in 1 dialogue itself, the sacred utterances are precious

instruments in the mighty hand of God for attaining that unity which the

Saviour holds out to all".117

Furthermore, the Sacrament of Baptism, which we have in common, represents

"a sacramental bond of unity linking all who have been reborn by means of

it".118 The theological, pastoral and ecumenical implications of our

common Baptism are many and important. Although this sacrament of itself

is "only a beginning, a point of departure", it is "oriented towards a

complete profession of faith, a complete incorporation into the system of

salvation such as Christ himself willed it to be, and finally, towards a

complete participation in Eucharistic communion".119

67. Doctrinal and historical disagreements at the time of the Reformation

emerged with regard to the Church, the sacraments and the ordained

ministry. The Council therefore calls for "dialogue to be undertaken

concerning the true meaning of the Lord's Supper, the other sacraments and

the Church's worship and ministry".120

The Decree Unitatis Redintegratio, pointing out that the post-Reformation

Communities lack that "fullness of unity with us which should flow from

Baptism", observes that "especially because of the lack of the Sacrament

of Orders they have not preserved the genuine and total reality of the

Eucharistic mystery", even though "when they commemorate the Lord's Death

and Resurrection in the Holy Supper, they profess that it signifies life

in communion with Christ and they await his coming in glory".121

68. The Decree does not overlook the spiritual life and its moral

consequences: "The Christian way of life of these brethren is nourished by

faith in Christ. It is strengthened by the grace of Baptism and the

hearing of God's Word. This way of life expresses itself in private

prayer, in meditation on the Bible, in Christian family life, and in

services of worship offered by Communities assembled to praise God.

Furthermore, their worship sometimes displays notable features of the

ancient, common liturgy".122

The Council document moreover does not limit itself to these spiritual,

moral and cultural aspects but extends its appreciation to the lively

sense of justice and to the sincere charity towards others which are

present among these brothers and sisters. Nor does it overlook their

efforts to make social conditions more humane and to promote peace. All

this is the result of a sincere desire to be faithful to the Word of

Christ as the source of Christian life.

The text thus raises a series of questions which, in the area of ethics

and morality, is becoming ever more urgent in our time: "There are many

Christians who do not always understand the Gospel in the same way as

Catholics".123 In this vast area there is much room for dialogue

concerning the moral principles of the Gospel and their implications.

69. The hopes and invitation expressed by the Second Vatican Council have

been acted upon, and bilateral theological dialogue with the various

worldwide Churches and Christian Communities in the West has been

progressively set in motion.

Moreover, with regard to multilateral dialogue, as early as 1964 the

process of setting up a "Joint Working Group" with the World Council of

Churches was begun, and since 1968 Catholic theologians have been admitted

as full members of the theological Department of the Council, the

Commission on Faith and Order.

This dialogue has been and continues to be fruitful and full of promise.

The topics suggested by the Council Decree have already been addressed, or

will be in the near future. The reflections of the various bilateral

dialogues, conducted with a dedication which deserves the praise of all

those committed to ecumenism, have concentrated on many disputed questions

such as Baptism, the Eucharist, the ordained ministry, the sacramentality

and authority of the Church and apostolic succession. As a result,

unexpected possibilities for resolving these questions have come to light,

while at the same time there has been a realization that certain questions

need to be studied more deeply.

70. This difficult and delicate research, which involves questions of

faith and respect for one's own conscience as well as for the consciences

of others, has been accompanied and sustained by the prayer of the

Catholic Church and of the other Churches and Ecclesial Communities.

Prayer for unity, already so deeply rooted in and spread throughout the

body of the Church, shows that Christians do indeed see the importance of

ecumenism. Precisely because the search for full unity requires believers

to question one another in relation to their faith in the one Lord, prayer

is the source of enlightenment concerning the truth which has to be

accepted in its entirety.

Moreover, through prayer the quest for unity, far from being limited to a

group of specialists, comes to be shared by all the baptized. Everyone,

regardless of their role in the Church or level of education, can make a

valuable contribution, in a hidden and profound way.

Ecclesial relations

71. We must give thanks to Divine Providence also for all the events which

attest to progress on the path to unity. Besides theological dialogue,

mention should be made of other forms of encounter, common prayer and

practical cooperation. Pope Paul VI strongly encouraged this process by

his visit to the headquarters of the World Council of Churches in Geneva

on 10 June 1969, and by his many meetings with representatives of various

Churches and Ecclesial Communities. Such contacts greatly help to improve

mutual knowledge and to increase Christian fraternity.

Pope John Paul I, during his very brief Pontificate, expressed the desire

to continue on this path.124 The Lord has enabled me to carry on this

work. In addition to important ecumenical meetings held in Rome, a

significant part of my Pastoral Visits is regularly devoted to fostering

Christian unity. Some of my journeys have a precise ecumenical "priority",

especially in countries where the Catholic communities constitute a

minority with respect to the post-Reformation communities or where the

latter represent a considerable portion of the believers in Christ in a

given society.

72. This is true above all for the European countries, in which these

divisions first appeared, and for North America. In this regard, without

wishing to minimize the other visits, I would especially mention those

within Europe which took me twice to Germany, in November 1980 and in

April-May 1987; to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland and Wales) in

May-June 1982; to Switzerland in June 1984; and to the Scandinavian and

Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland) in June

1989. In an atmosphere of joy, mutual respect, Christian solidarity and

prayer I met so very many brothers and sisters, all making a committed

effort to be faithful to the Gospel. Seeing all this has been for me a

great source of encouragement. We experienced the Lord's presence among

us.

In this respect I would like to mention one demonstration dictated by

fraternal charity and marked by deep clarity of faith which made a

profound impression on me. I am speaking of the Eucharistic celebrations

at which I presided in Finland and Sweden during my journey to the

Scandinavian and Nordic countries. At Communion time, the Lutheran Bishops

approached the celebrant. They wished, by means of an agreed gesture, to

demonstrate their desire for that time when we, Catholics and Lutherans,

will be able to share the same Eucharist, and they wished to receive the

celebrant's blessing. With love I blessed them. The same gesture, so rich

in meaning, was repeated in Rome at the Mass at which I presided in Piazza

Farnese, on the sixth centenary of the canonization of Saint Birgitta of

Sweden, on 6 October 1991.

I have encountered similar sentiments on the other side of the ocean also:

in Canada, in September 1984; and particularly in September 1987 in the

United States, where one notices a great ecumenical openness. This was the

case, to give one example, of the ecumenical meeting held at Columbia,

South Carolina on 11 September 1987. The very fact that such meetings

regularly take place between the Pope and these brothers and sisters whose

Churches and Ecclesial Communities originate in the Reformation is

important in itself. I am deeply grateful for the warm reception which I

have received both from the leaders of the various Communities and from

the Communities as a whole. From this standpoint, I consider significant

the ecumenical celebration of the Word held in Columbia on the theme of

the family.

73. It is also a source of great joy to observe how in the postconciliar

period and in the local Churches many programmes and activities on behalf

of Christian unity are in place, programmes and activities which have a

stimulating effect at the level of Episcopal Conferences, individual

Dioceses and parishes, and at the level of the various ecclesial

organizations and movements.

Achievements of cooperation

74. "Not every one who says to me, 'Lord, Lord', will enter the kingdom of

heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven" (Mt 7:21).

The consistency and honesty of intentions and of statements of principles

are verified by their application to real life. The Council Decree on

Ecumenism notes that among other Christians "the faith by which they

believe in Christ bears fruit in praise and thanksgiving for the benefits

received from the hands of God. Joined to it are a lively sense of justice

and a true neighbourly charity".125

What has just been outlined is fertile ground not only for dialogue but

also for practical cooperation: "Active faith has produced many

organizations for the relief of spiritual and bodily distress, the

education of youth, the advancement of humane social conditions, and the

promotion of peace throughout the world".126

Social and cultural life offers ample opportunities for ecumenical

cooperation. With increasing frequency Christians are working together to

defend human dignity, to promote peace, to apply the Gospel to social

life, to bring the Christian spirit to the world of science and of the

arts. They find themselves ever more united in striving to meet the

sufferings and the needs of our time: hunger, natural disasters and social

injustice.

75. For Christians, this cooperation, which draws its inspiration from the

Gospel itself, is never mere humanitarian action. It has its reason for

being in the Lord's words: "For I was hungry and you gave me food" (Mt

25:35). As I have already emphasized, the cooperation among Christians

clearly manifests that degree of communion which already exists among

them.127

Before the world, united action in society on the part of Christians has

the clear value of a joint witness to the name of the Lord. It is also a

form of proclamation, since it reveals the face of Christ.

The doctrinal disagreements which remain exercise a negative influence and

even place limits on cooperation. Still, the communion of faith which

already exists between Christians provides a solid foundation for their

joint action not only in the social field but also in the religious

sphere.

Such cooperation will facilitate the quest for unity. The Decree on

Ecumenism noted that "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".128

76. In this context, how can I fail to mention the ecumenical interest in

peace, expressed in prayer and action by ever greater numbers of

Christians and with a steadily growing theological inspiration? It could

not be otherwise. Do we not believe in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace?

Christians are becoming ever more united in their rejection of violence,

every kind of violence, from wars to social injustice.

We are called to make ever greater efforts, so that it may be ever more

apparent that religious considerations are not the real cause of current

conflicts, even though, unfortunately, there is still a risk of religion

being exploited for political and polemical purposes.

In 1986, at Assisi, during the World Day of Prayer for Peace, Christians

of the various Churches and Ecclesial Communities prayed with one voice to

the Lord of history for peace in the world. That same day, in a different

but parallel way, Jews and representatives of non-Christian religions also

prayed for peace in a harmonious expression of feelings which struck a

resonant chord deep in the human spirit.

Nor do I wish to overlook the Day of Prayer for Peace in Europe,

especially in the Balkans, which took me back to the town of Saint Francis

as a pilgrim on 9-10 January 1993, and the Mass for Peace in the Balkans

and especially in Bosnia-Hercegovina, which I celebrated on 23 January

1994 in Saint Peter's Basilica during the Week of Prayer for Christian

Unity.

When we survey the world joy fills our hearts. For we note that Christians

feel ever more challenged by the issue of peace. They see it as intimately

connected with the proclamation of the Gospel and with the coming of God's

Kingdom.

CHAPTER III - QUANTA EST NOBIS VIA?

Continuing and deepening dialogue

77. We can now ask how much further we must travel until that blessed day

when full unity in faith will be attained and we can celebrate together in

peace the Holy Eucharist of the Lord. The greater mutual understanding and

the doctrinal convergences already achieved between us, which have

resulted in an affective and effective growth of communion, cannot suffice

for the conscience of Christians who profess that the Church is one, holy,

catholic and apostolic. The ultimate goal of the ecumenical movement is to

re-establish full visible unity among all the baptized.

In view of this goal, all the results so far attained are but one stage of

the journey, however promising and positive.

78. In the ecumenical movement, it is not only the Catholic Church and the

Orthodox Churches which hold to this demanding concept of the unity willed

by God. The orientation towards such unity is also expressed by others.129

Ecumenism implies that the Christian communities should help one another

so that there may be truly present in them the full content and all the

requirements of "the heritage handed down by the Apostles".130 Without

this, full communion will never be possible. This mutual help in the

search for truth is a sublime form of evangelical charity.

The documents of the many International Mixed Commissions of dialogue have

expressed this commitment to seeking unity. On the basis of a certain

fundamental doctrinal unity, these texts discuss Baptism, Eucharist,

ministry and authority.

From this basic but partial unity it is now necessary to advance towards

the visible unity which is required and sufficient and which is manifested

in a real and concrete way, so that the Churches may truly become a sign

of that full communion in the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church

which will be expressed in the common celebration of the Eucharist.

This journey towards the necessary and sufficient visible unity, in the

communion of the one Church willed by Christ, continues to require patient

and courageous efforts. In this process, one must not impose any burden

beyond that which is strictly necessary (cf. Acts 15:28).

79. It is already possible to identify the areas in need of fuller study

before a true consensus of faith can be achieved: 1) the relationship

between Sacred Scripture, as the highest authority in matters of faith,

and Sacred Tradition, as indispensable to the interpretation of the Word

of God; 2) the Eucharist, as the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of

Christ, an offering of praise to the Father, the sacrificial memorial and

Real Presence of Christ and the sanctifying outpouring of the Holy Spirit;

3) Ordination, as a Sacrament, to the threefold ministry of the

episcopate, presbyterate and diaconate; 4) the Magisterium of the Church,

entrusted to the Pope and the Bishops in communion with him, understood as

a responsibility and an authority exercised in the name of Christ for

teaching and safeguarding the faith; 5) the Virgin Mary, as Mother of God

and Icon of the Church, the spiritual Mother who intercedes for Christ's

disciples and for all humanity.

In this courageous journey towards unity, the transparency and the

prudence of faith require us to avoid both false irenicism and

indifference to the Church's ordinances.131 Conversely, that same

transparency and prudence urge us to reject a halfhearted commitment to

unity and, even more, a prejudicial opposition or a defeatism which tends

to see everything in negative terms.

To uphold a vision of unity which takes account of all the demands of

revealed truth does not mean to put a brake on the ecumenical movement.132

On the contrary, it means preventing it from settling for apparent

solutions which would lead to no firm and solid results.133 The obligation

to respect the truth is absolute. Is this not the law of the Gospel?

Reception of the results already achieved

80. While dialogue continues on new subjects or develops at deeper levels,

a new task lies before us: that of receiving the results already achieved.

These cannot remain the statements of bilateral commissions but must

become a common heritage. For this to come about and for the bonds of

communion to be thus strengthened, a serious examination needs to be made,

which, by different ways and means and at various levels of

responsibility, must involve the whole People of God. We are in fact

dealing with issues which frequently are matters of faith, and these

require universal consent, extending from the Bishops to the lay faithful,

all of whom have received the anointing of the Holy Spirit.134 It is the

same Spirit who assists the Magisterium and awakens the sensus fidei.

Consequently, for the outcome of dialogue to be received, there is needed

a broad and precise critical process which analyzes the results and

rigorously tests their consistency with the Tradition of faith received

from the Apostles and lived out in the community of believers gathered

around the Bishop, their legitimate Pastor.

81. This process, which must be carried forward with prudence and in a

spirit of faith, will be assisted by the Holy Spirit. If it is to be

successful, its results must be made known in appropriate ways by

competent persons. Significant in this regard is the contribution which

theologians and faculties of theology are called to make by exercising

their charism in the Church. It is also clear that ecumenical commissions

have very specific responsibilities and tasks in this regard.

The whole process is followed and encouraged by the Bishops and the Holy

See. The Church's teaching authority is responsible for expressing a

definitive judgment.

In all this, it will be of great help methodologically to keep carefully

in mind the distinction between the deposit of faith and the formulation

in which it is expressed, as Pope John XXIII recommended in his opening

address at the Second Vatican Council.135

Continuing spiritual ecumenism and bearing witness to holiness

82. It is understandable how the seriousness of the commitment to

ecumenism presents a deep challenge to the Catholic faithful. The Spirit

calls them to make a serious examination of conscience. The Catholic

Church must enter into what might be called a "dialogue of conversion",

which constitutes the spiritual foundation of ecumenical dialogue. In this

dialogue, which takes place before God, each individual must recognize his

own faults, confess his sins and place himself in the hands of the One who

is our Intercessor before the Father, Jesus Christ.

Certainly, in this attitude of conversion to the will of the Father and,

at the same time, of repentance and absolute trust in the reconciling

power of the truth which is Christ, we will find the strength needed to

bring to a successful conclusion the long and arduous pilgrimage of

ecumenism. The "dialogue of conversion" with the Father on the part of

each Community, with the full acceptance of all that it demands, is the

basis of fraternal relations which will be something more than a mere

cordial understanding or external sociability. The bonds of fraternal

koinonia must be forged before God and in Christ Jesus.

Only the act of placing ourselves before God can offer a solid basis for

that conversion of individual Christians and for that constant reform of

the Church, insofar as she is also a human and earthly institution,136

which represent the preconditions for all ecumenical commitment. One of

the first steps in ecumenical dialogue is the effort to draw the Christian

Communities into this completely interior spiritual space in which Christ,

by the power of the Spirit, leads them all, without exception, to examine

themselves before the Father and to ask themselves whether they have been

faithful to his plan for the Church.

83. I have mentioned the will of the Father and the spiritual space in

which each community hears the call to overcome the obstacles to unity.

All Christian Communities know that, thanks to the power given by the

Spirit, obeying that will and overcoming those obstacles are not beyond

their reach. All of them in fact have martyrs for the Christian faith.137

Despite the tragedy of our divisions, these brothers and sisters have

preserved an attachment to Christ and to the Father so radical and

absolute as to lead even to the shedding of blood. But is not this same

attachment at the heart of what I have called a "dialogue of conversion"?

Is it not precisely this dialogue which clearly shows the need for an ever

more profound experience of the truth if full communion is to be attained?

84. In a theocentric vision, we Christians already have a common

Martyrology. This also includes the martyrs of our own century, more

numerous than one might think, and it shows how, at a profound level, God

preserves communion among the baptized in the supreme demand of faith,

manifested in the sacrifice of life itself.138 The fact that one can die

for the faith shows that other demands of the faith can also be met. I

have already remarked, and with deep joy, how an imperfect but real

communion is preserved and is growing at many levels of ecclesial life. I