Ecumenical Relations

Ecumenism, from the Greek word “oikoumene,” meaning “the whole inhabited world,” is the promotion of cooperation and unity among Christians. Jesus Christ founded one Church and, in the midst of his Passion, prayed, “That they may all be one.” (John 17:21) In fidelity to that, the Catholic Church takes part in an ecumenical movement seeking visible unity among the diversity of Christian Churches and ecclesial communities.

A divided Christianity is a scandal to the world and the movement of the Holy Spirit calls for the restoration of unity. Underlying the Catholic Church’s pursuit of ecumenism is the recognition that despite the separation, elements of the Church can exist outside the visible boundaries of the Catholic Church. Thus, it can even be said that the Church’s pursuit of ecumenism is another way of expressing her radical catholicity or universality.

These elements are the imperfect realization of unity that already exists in Jesus Christ as part of the one Church of Christ. The unity of Christians is understood as the manifestation of their communion with God the Father through Jesus Christ in the Holy Spirit. Ecumenical dialogue, the search for full, visible unity is thus essential to the Christian life.

Address: 14040 Greenwell Springs Road, Greenwell Springs, LA 70739-3302
Telephone: 225-261-4650
FAX: 225-261-5650

The Diocese of Baton Rouge coordinates ecumenical ministry with the Louisiana Interchurch Conference. This is a helpful aid in educating others on our shared commitment to ecumenism.