Ecumenism

Ecumenism Synopsis

This critically annotated bibliography includes entries for over 1300 books on ecumenism published between 1950 and 1992. It also describes 85 journals devoted to ecumenism. Unlike most bibliographies, the volume offers a thorough analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of specific publications. It provides a theological and historical record of Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican, and Protestant ecumenical literature, and is a guide to the works of the World Council of Churches, the Second Vatican Council, and modern bilateral dialogues.

The reference begins with an introductory essay that describes the various types of ecumenical publications and discusses the historical events that occasioned their production. The bibliography follows, with entries arranged in topical chapters. The first chapter includes entries for older bibliographies, encyclopedias, handbooks, and other reference works. It also overviews journals and research centers devoted to ecumenism. The next chapter contains historical accounts of the ecumenical movement. The following chapter collects accounts given by members of various Christian confessions to explain their own church's understanding of ecumenism. A chapter on bilateral and multilateral consultations follows, and a final chapter addresses specific doctrinal issues. The book concludes with detailed author, title, and subject indexes.