Ecumenism facts for kids

Ecumenism (say it: eh-kyoo-MEN-izm) is a big idea about how different groups of Christians can work together. Over many years, Christians have split into different groups, called denominations. These groups sometimes have different beliefs, histories, or ways of doing things.

Ecumenism is about finding ways for these Christian groups to understand each other better and cooperate. It's like different teams on the same sports field learning to play together, even if they wear different uniforms. It's not about making everyone the same, but about respecting differences and finding common ground. This idea is different from just being tolerant of other religions; it's about active cooperation among Christians.

The word "ecumenical" comes from an old Latin word, oecumenicus. This word means "the whole world" or "inhabited" (meaning, where people live). So, when we talk about ecumenism, it means something that includes or affects all Christians around the world.

Why do Christians work together?

Christians work together for many reasons. One main reason is to show unity, meaning they are all part of one big Christian family. They believe that by working together, they can better share their message and help people in the world.

Working together can also help to:

• Understand each other: Different Christian groups can learn about each other's traditions and beliefs. This helps to break down misunderstandings.
• Solve problems: When Christians work together, they can combine their efforts to help people in need, fight poverty, or promote peace.
• Share worship: Sometimes, Christians from different groups will gather to pray or worship together. This helps them feel connected.

How do Christians cooperate?

There are many ways Christians cooperate. Some examples include:

• Dialogues: Leaders and thinkers from different Christian groups meet to talk about their beliefs and find common ground.
• Joint projects: Churches might work together on charity projects, like collecting food for the hungry or building homes for those in need.
• Shared prayers: Special services or events are sometimes held where Christians from various denominations pray together.
• Organizations: There are groups like the World Council of Churches that bring together many different Christian denominations to work on shared goals.

History of Ecumenism

For a long time, Christian groups often stayed separate. But in the last century, many Christians started to feel that working together was important. This led to the modern ecumenical movement.

Important moments in this movement include:

• Early 20th Century: Christians began to meet more often to discuss missions and social issues.
• 1948: The World Council of Churches was formed. This was a big step in bringing many Protestant and Orthodox churches together.
• Second Vatican Council (1962-1965): The Catholic Church also became more involved in ecumenism, encouraging dialogue with other Christian groups.

Today, ecumenism continues to be an important part of Christian life. It helps Christians from different backgrounds find ways to live and work together in peace and understanding.

Images for kids

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  This symbol shows Christianity as a boat on the sea, with the cross as its mast. It represents all Christians sailing together.

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  This picture shows a special ecumenical gathering in Chile, where leaders from different Christian groups came together.

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  Here, an Anglican bishop is being consecrated (officially made a bishop). Leaders from the Polish National Catholic Church and the Russian Orthodox Church are also present, showing unity.

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  Bishop John M. Quinn (Catholic) and Bishop Steven Delzer (Lutheran) leading a service together in 2017. This shows cooperation between different Christian traditions.

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  This image shows an ecumenical worship service at the monastery of Taizé in France, where people from different Christian backgrounds pray together.