Ecumenism: meaning, definitions and examples
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ecumenism
[ ˌɛkjʊˈmiːnɪzəm ]
religious unity
Ecumenism refers to the principle or aim of promoting unity among the world's Christian churches. It emphasizes collaboration and dialogue to achieve a common understanding and shared beliefs across different denominations. The movement seeks to address divisions and create a more cohesive Christian witness in the world.
Synonyms
Christian unity, interdenominational cooperation, religious dialogue.
Examples of usage
- The ecumenism movement is gaining traction in many communities.
- Ecumenism encourages churches to work together on social justice issues.
- Leaders from various denominations participated in the ecumenism conference.
- Many parishes are focusing on ecumenism to foster a spirit of cooperation.
Translations
Translations of the word "ecumenism" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ecumenismo
🇮🇳 सार्वभौमिकता
🇩🇪 Ökumene
🇮🇩 ekumenisme
🇺🇦 екуменізм
🇵🇱 ekumenizm
🇯🇵 エキュメニズム
🇫🇷 œcuménisme
🇪🇸 ecumenismo
🇹🇷 ekümenizm
🇰🇷 에큐메니즘
🇸🇦 الإكومنisme
🇨🇿 ekumenismus
🇸🇰 ekumenizmus
🇨🇳 普世主义
🇸🇮 ekumenizem
🇮🇸 ekumenismi
🇰🇿 экуменизм
🇬🇪 ეკუმენიზმი
🇦🇿 ekumenizm
🇲🇽 ecumenismo
Etymology
The term 'ecumenism' derives from the Greek word 'oikoumene', which means 'the whole inhabited world'. The use of the word began in the early 20th century, particularly after the establishment of the World Council of Churches in 1948. Historically, ecumenical movements emerged as a response to the fragmentation of Christianity into various denominations, particularly after the Protestant Reformation. The movement has roots in the desire for Christian unity, addressing both theological differences and social issues. The 20th century saw significant efforts in ecumenism, including the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), which aimed to foster dialogue between Catholics and other Christians. This historical context highlights the ongoing and evolving nature of ecumenism in addressing not only religious but also cultural and social divisions among faith communities.