Ekumeninis krikščioniškojo paveldo matmuo
The ecumenical dimension of Christian heritage

Summary/Abstract: Ecumenical communication enables the development of individuals and of whole communities. Due to interdenominational contacts we get to know the religious life and spiritual experience of different ecclesiastic communities. Thanks to other people one acquires a more critical attitude towards oneself and becomes more open to what is required of truth. Besides the Churches’ divine origin, it is, at the same time, an earthly and human institution, which is constantly being urged by the Lord to renew itself and heed the inspirations of the Holy Spirit. The way of ecumenical dialogue requires that Churches not only convert to Christ, but also show good faith and open up to one another, and recognize the authentic Christian values of others. That is why Ecumenism is not only a dialogue between different Christian denominations but also a challenge and an encouragement to deepen our Christian faith and make life brighter. The Ecumenical dialogue does not force one to renounce one’s identity; however it urges one to understand and respect other people. Though denominational differences create obstacles for solidarity of all Christians, on the other hand, they constantly remind us about the majesty of divine mysteries and the opportunity to experience their diversity. While speaking about the valuable exchange between Christian Churches, one has in mind, first of all, the spiritual wealth of Catholicism and Orthodoxy. The Protestant tradition may be considered less rich historically and more oriented toward a present-day relationship between man and God. Due to the strongly accentuated religiousness of present-day in Protestantism, some especially meaningful peculiarities and phenomena of Christian life come to light. Ecumenism is far from being an easier way; it is rather a challenge for expanding one’s outlook, raising questions about the essence of Christian faith and making radical changes in one’s everyday Christian life. In this context, one can mention Martin Buber, the philosopher of religion and the creator of the wellknown philosophy of dialogue, and his worthwhile insights about religion as a phenomenon and as a closed system, its possible mistakes and the shortcomings of its confessors. When one begins to discern that religion is fulfilling in itself and when it is presented as a self-affirming doctrine, the danger arises that the vocation of the Church will be made narrow and diminished. Religion as a system satisfied within itself, self-assured and arrogant – a religion, which believes in religion, becomes stagnant and lacking in vitality. Such a religion is more apt to hide the face of God than show it. It becomes the noblest form of insensitivity for Revelation. A global and integrated attitude toward various values present in Christian denominations tends to create an authentic ecumenical spirituality.

• Details
• Contents