Directions and Foundations of Pope Francis’ Approach to Ecumenism
Abstract
The article presents an analysis of Francis’ numerous statements on the topic of ecumenism and attempts to synthesise papal thought in the key of directions, foundations and practical guidelines for the search for unity by contemporary Christians. The study of the source texts first helps to demonstrate the main areas of Francis’ ecumenism (including the motivation for a common path and theological dialogue, the focus on spiritual life and service to the world). The theological foundations of this service will then be recognised, above all the gift of grace, the ecclesiology of unity, starting from the source of baptism, the profession of faith and the perspective of holiness. Finally, the third part of the article is an attempt to synthesise Francis’ practical orientations and indications for ecumenism, including openness to the word of God and the Holy Spirit, evangelisation, awareness of imperfect unity, moving from the logic of “what I can teach” to “what I can learn,” response to the challenges of the world.
Keywords:
Francis, ecumenism, ecclesiology, unity, the common way, contemporary problemsReferences
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University of Silesia in Katowice
Rev. Przemysław Sawa, PhD - Doctor of Dogmatic Theology, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Theology of the University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland. Head of Postgraduate Studies in Spirituality Theology. Member of the Society of Dogmatic Theologians in Poland, Polish Association of Pastoralists. Active in the Polish Christian Forum. Member of the editorial board of the scientific journal Ecumeny and Law. Works on evangelical spirituality and theology, the charismatic movement and the theology of Pope Francis.
Major scientific articles include the following: “Synodalność Kościoła w ujęciu papieża Franciszka,” Teologia w Polsce 17 (2023) i. 2, p. 191-217; “Migrations and Spirituality in Europe: a catholic voice inspired by the thought of Pope Francis,” Ecumeny & Law 9 (2021), p. 89-116 “Duchowość ewangelikalna - szansa dla ekumenizmu,” Studia Oecumenica 16 (2016), p. 253-275.
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