Surveying the Impact of Unitatis Redintegratio: Achieved Convergences—Current Processes—Open Questions

Abstract

This chapter discusses three aspects of the effectual history of the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on Ecumenism Unitatis Redintegratio: Convergences have been achieved—the realization of all Churches’ need of reform, joy in the existing sacramental bond of baptism, readiness for constant dialogue; Certain concerns of the Council are being rediscovered today—the Christological and soteriological concentration of all ecumenical questions, the spiritual ecumenism of life, efforts for ecumenical formation on all levels; Open questions mainly concern the understanding of Churches and ethics—how can the principle of the “Hierarchy of truths” become effectual in this regard? How can joint steps be taken in the question of ministry? What are the goals of the ecumenical movement?