ekumenismin

Ekumenism is a theological and ecclesiological movement that seeks to promote unity and cooperation among Christians of different denominations and traditions. The term "ekumenism" is derived from the Greek word "oikoumenē," which means "inhabited world" or "worldwide." The movement emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the growing diversity of Christian denominations and the perceived need for greater cooperation and understanding among them.

Ekumenism emphasizes the shared beliefs and values of Christians, such as the centrality of Jesus Christ, the importance of the Holy Spirit, and the necessity of the Church for salvation. It seeks to foster dialogue and collaboration among different Christian traditions, with the ultimate goal of promoting unity and overcoming divisions.

One of the key institutions of ekumenism is the World Council of Churches (WCC), which was founded in 1948 and brings together Christian churches from around the world. The WCC promotes ecumenical dialogue, advocacy for human rights, and social justice initiatives.

Ekumenism has faced criticism and challenges, including concerns about the loss of distinct denominational identities and the potential for compromising theological differences. Despite these challenges, ekumenism continues to be an important movement in the Christian world, promoting unity, cooperation, and dialogue among different Christian traditions.