Christian Unity

In this inspirational book, Fr. Thomas Ryan harvests his thirty-five years of experience in the work for Christian unity, putting it on the table for popular consumption and to renew energy for the cause. In addition, he gives voice to the experience of others from around the continent and beyond who have shared the journey with in-depth experience in particular domains of ecumenical endeavor. A parish priest in Los Angeles. A couple who have exercised leadership in the Canadian Association of Interchurch Families. Another couple whose lives have been enriched and faith deepened through their collaboration in social action projects with other local churches in Virginia. A group of men in Portland, Oregon, who bring together community leaders in the public, private and nonprofit sectors to support and encourage one another in their personal faith journeys and to find Christian community in a secular society. Ryan recounts stories as well of the growing number of lay movements and institutes of consecrated life who carry the work for unity at their core, such as Focolare and the Community of Sant’Egidio. Similarly, the significant contribution monastic and religious communities and societies of apostolic life can make is exemplified in the stories of Taizé and Bose, the Paulists, Atonement Friars, Glenmary Missioners, and Jesuits. The “new monastics” who are springing up within a variety of Protestant traditions in North America are also featured. All of the above are lifted up as exemplifications that our bonds with one another in the body of Christ are being experienced and manifested in new ways. We are witnessing the emergence of a new reality: the priority of Christian community over a purely doctrinal approach. And the implications are both profound and exciting. The question framed for the reader is: If you are not already doing so, how might you participate and make a difference there, where you are? †