Pathways for Ecclesial Dialogue in the Twenty-First Century

While, historically, most attention has focused on Catholic-Protestant relations in Ireland, there continue to be important dialogues between Catholics and Eastern Orthodox, Lutherans and Anglicans, and Presbyterians and Baptists. With increased globalization, doctrinal shifts and expansion, migration, evangelism, and declining membership, the relations between and among Christian denominations have become increasingly dynamic and important. New forms of dialogue as well as reinvigoration of the old patterns of sharing and communication are vital to renewing and updating ecumenical and interfaith movements. This volume revolves around Intra and Inter-Church Issues and features representative essays from scholars, clergy, and laity across many different denominations and cultural identities. The contributors to Pathways for Ecclesial Dialogue in the Twenty-First Century identify myriad obstacles currently standing in the way of dialogue both within churches and between churches. They dissect the problems that often prevent churches from moving toward a realization of important common ground. They then move on to discuss how these obstacles might be dissolved or circumvented. In short, this volume explores all the ways through which ecclesial dialogue can be re-energized and adapted for a new century.