Temple Vision as a Catalyst to Theological Convergence: Ecumenical Renewal in a Post-Ecumenical Era

Abstract

I would like to thank Profs. Fr. Laurent Cleenewerck and Fr. Cajetan Ebuziem for their constructive feedback on an earlier draft of this article. Abstract The modern Ecumenical Movement actively seeks to establish visible unity among all Christendom. How this is to eventually take shape remains a mystery. Historically, there are four methods by which this process is understood: (1) Faith and Order, (2) Life and Work, (3) Common missionary efforts, and (4) A renewed commitment to theological education. Nevertheless, the search for visible unity remains problematic, when taking into account the further divisions that exist in the sacramental life of the Church, as the Lima 1982 Baptism, Eucharist and Ministry (BEM) document examines. The reality remains that the Church is nowhere closer to achieving the visible unity for which Jesus prayed in John 17:21. But what if we are not looking in the right place? What is the answer has been reiterated throughout the Scriptures all along – hidden in plain sight? The Temple, with its cube-shaped Holy of Holies, can provide a catalyst through which, not only visible unity, but a wider theological convergence, is achieved. As this essay will argue, Temple vision can become a catalyst to achieving the mystical unity for which Jesus prayed, as consistent with Christ’s ecumenical imperative. In our increasingly technological world that is looking for mystical connections of a deeper nature, this may very well be what the world needs today. Keywords: Temple, Visible Unity, Ecumenical, Theological Convergence DOI: 10.7176/JPCR/48-04 Publication date: March 31 st 2020