By Martin Hoegger
Castelgandolfo, 26 March 2025 — During a recent congress hosted by the Focolare Movement, four theologians from diverse Christian traditions gathered to explore the many dimensions of dialogue: dialogue lived in daily life, of the heart, in prayer, and even within theology. These forms of dialogue are not in competition, but rather interconnected, each complementing and enriching the others.
Dialogue as a Way of Life
For Anglican theologian Callan Slipper, authentic dialogue begins with genuine relationships. Dialogue falters when love is absent. Thus, he emphasizes a “dialogue of life” — being present with one another in our full humanity, nurturing relationships that foster love and care. This kind of engagement opens us to deeper truth and clearer discernment, ultimately guiding us to Jesus, the ultimate truth.
Slipper reflects on the Gospel of John, where Pontius Pilate asks, “What is truth?” Jesus responds, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Truth, then, is not a concept, but a person — Jesus Christ — who seeks to dwell among us and enlighten us. The path to truth requires open hearts, a readiness to listen, and above all, love.
He likens dialogue to the journey of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, walking with Jesus and growing in understanding along the way. True love among us, shaped by the cross — as in “love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34) — is the essence of ecumenism and of the Christian faith itself. On this shared journey, the Risen Christ becomes truly present among us, inviting us into his paschal mystery.
The Heart of Dialogue: Receptive Ecumenism
Swedish theologian Nausikaa Haupt introduced the concept of “receptive ecumenism,” an approach developed by British theologian Paul Murray. This form of dialogue encourages Churches to humbly ask what they can learn from others, and to recognize areas within their own traditions that need healing. It is a dialogue of vulnerability and humility — a true “ecumenism of the heart.”
Haupt compares this process to living out the parable of the speck and the beam, where each must reflect on their own shortcomings before critiquing others. This attitude was reflected in a recent dialogue document between the Catholic and Anglican Churches, which emphasized the importance of mutual trust and openness — characteristics also central to the Catholic Church’s current synodal process, focused on communion, participation, and mission. Above all, Haupt insists, the Holy Spirit is the true guide in these conversations.
Prayer as Dialogue
Greek Orthodox theologian Augustinos Bairactaris shared a powerful story of praying together in a small group with Christians from various Churches, within the context of the Focolare Movement. This shared prayer profoundly impacted him. He experienced how communal prayer — rooted in love and mutual respect — produces peace, reconciliation, and unity in diversity.
Through this experience, Bairactaris recognized the need to move beyond historical divisions and focus on the deeper reality of our shared identity in Christ. Praying together becomes a declaration of trust in Jesus, a recognition that he is truly present among us. This presence, he says, is not symbolic — it is real. In prayer, followers of Christ share not only in one another’s struggles but in their joys as well.
The Role of Doctrine in Dialogue
Karen Petersen Finch, an American Reformed theologian and author of the book Grassroots Ecumenism, brought another critical dimension to the discussion: doctrinal dialogue. Drawing from her experience working with laypeople, she emphasized that engaging with doctrine can lead to a fuller understanding of the Good News of Christ and that theological discussions, grounded in Scripture, the confession of the Triune God, and the testimony of the early Church, are crucial to unity.
Finch believes that theological unity is incomplete without the participation of lay Christians in their local communities. While shared mission and acts of service are vital, they must be accompanied by honest, respectful conversations about doctrine — even when such dialogue is difficult or progress feels slow.
“Local dialogue,” she adds, “is a work of the Holy Spirit. It deepens our faith in Jesus Christ and strengthens our commitment to his Gospel.” She concluded with a heartfelt prayer: “I pray that the seeds planted will grow, that more will experience the joy of unity in the Holy Spirit through dialogue in their neighborhoods, strengthening them in love and witness through the crafting of a common viewpoint grounded in the gift of Jesus.”
About the Author: Martin Hoegger is a Swiss Reformed theologian and writer.
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