Today we're talking about Christian ecumenism, the work of unity within and between denominations in our one dysfunctional Christian family. I don't know where I'd be today without the insight, leading, wisdom and friendship of my Protestant sisters and brothers and hope you find these resources helpful as well.
1. If you were born and raised Catholic but have not read much from our Protestant sisters and brothers, please let me recommend:
Beth Moore, C.S. Lewis, Emily P. Freeman, Barbara Brown Taylor, Rachel Held Evans, Sarah Bessey, Anne Lamott, Peter Gomes
2. If you were born and raised Protestant but have not read much from our Catholic sisters and brothers, please let me recommend:
Henri Nouwen, Fr. James Martin, Helen Prejean, Fr. Richard Rohr, Thomas Merton, Flannery O'Connor
3. Journal Prompts:
What are some relationships and experiences in my past which may have colored how I view Christians from other denominations?
Who is a Christian of another denomination who I see working in my community for the greater good?
What aspects of God's personality can be found in my denomination? What might I discover about Him from another church experience?
Do I have any fears around relationship with or participation in another denomination's faith practice? From where did those fears come?
How big is God?
How could we better welcome others into our faith community or practice?
4. Song: God is Love, by Ginny Owens
5. Pilgrimage: Visit a church of a differing denomination, experience their tradition and worship God together.
6. Podcast: Abiding Together - The Power of Christian Unity featuring musician Matt Maher
7. Song: Hold Us Together, by Matt Maher
8. Song: The Voyage, by Amanda Lindsey Cook
9. Song: We Are Family, by Sister Sledge
