‘Unreal worlds meeting’? Realism and illusion in ecumenical dialogue

Abstract

One aspect of the chilly climate of ecumenism at the present time is the idea that theological dialogue between the major Christian traditions is basically a pointless exercise in self-deception. This article considers this criticism and weighs the extent to which the churches are already united, while being, in some cases, divided where it matters most – at the Lord’s Table. It restates the ‘Faith and Order’ vision of full visible unity as an imperative of the gospel, briefly indicating how it may be pursued with realism and integrity.