Augustin Bea (1881–1968)

Unity is partly a matter between Christians. The "Decree on Ecumenism", which the author outlines and assesses here, stresses that all ecumenical action consists primarily in a renewal of both the Church as a whole and of each individual member. This renewal is to be integrated with a deeper understanding of revelation and ecclesiology; the author therefore examines the "Constitution on Divine Revelation" and the "Constitution on the Church" in the context of unity. One of the most important means to Christian mutual understanding is fidelity to God's Word as contained in Scripture and in the Church's tradition. Equally important in inter-Christian dialogue and understanding is a growing awareness of what kind of a society the Church essentially is.… (mehr)