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Document Details :

Title: Receptive Ecumenism
Subtitle: An Orthodox Perspective
Author(s): WARE, Kallistos
Journal: Louvain Studies
Volume: 33    Issue: 1-2   Date: 2008   
Pages: 46-53
DOI: 10.2143/LS.33.1.2034335

Abstract :
This article explores the meaning of 'receptive ecumenism.' In an important advance, it indicates that 'receptive ecumenism' signifies more than learning and receiving from one another; the effectiveness of such a process depends on both sides being prepared to learn and receive from God. The article asserts that 'receptive ecumenism' signifies a continual epiclesis of the Paraclete. This means that three qualities above all are needed in receptive ecumenism: silence, a spirit of repentance and a Trinitarian mode of thinking and of living. In 'receptive ecumenism' giving and receiving, teaching and learning are seen as mutually interdependent. The article illustrates this point by reference to ecclesiology, the present-day ecological crisis, and the Christian doctrine of the human person.

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