Ecumenism - (Guides for the Perplexed) by R David Nelson & Charles Raith (Paperback)

About the Book

A one-volume introduction to the history of and pressing issues in contemporary ecumenical dialogue.

Book Synopsis

Ecumenism: A Guide for the Perplexed is a comprehensive introduction to the methods, achievements, and future prospects of the modern ecumenical movement. The authors begin the volume by charting out a serviceable definition of ecumenism, a term that has long been a source of confusion for students of theology and church history. They review the chronology of the modern ecumenical movement and highlight the major events, figures, accomplishments, and impasses. This historical survey is followed by critical examinations of three significant challenges for contemporary ecumenical theology and practice. Along the way, the authors provide commentary upon the difficulties and prospects that the ecumenical movement might anticipate as it enters this new millennium.

Review Quotes

It is well designed for use as an introductory textbook for a classroom setting, though it could also serve as a stand-alone book. It is written for and highly recommended for those with a formal theological education but no prior experience in ecumenism.
Exchange

Nelson and Raith provide an introduction to ecumenism that is positive though not uncritical, concise yet thorough, scholarly but accessible.
Reading Religion

This lucid introduction to the modern ecumenical movement offers an informative and reliable overview of its history and obstacles. The result is a broad, yet theologically astute orientation to ecumenism. Particularly noteworthy is the claim that contemporary ecumenism is unintelligible apart from the contributions of evangelical Christianity. Nelson and Raith's passion for the church's unity will draw in many of those skeptical of ecumenism.
Hans Boersma, Regent College, Canada

About the Author

R. David Nelson is Acquisition Editor for Baker Academic and Brazos Press, USA.

Charles Raith II is Assistant Professor of Religion and Philosophy and Director of the Paradosis Center for Theology and Scripture at John Brown University, USA.