Vision
Proposal of Reconfiguration
The success of Ecumenism finds expression in the integration of the vision by united and communion of churches into their own self-understanding. Yet denominationalism is also a reality where churches try to sharpen their own institutional profile for reasons of visibility, participation and not the least for financial support in a competitive society. The ecumenical vision as articulated from the early days of the movement no longer inspires the evangelical churches and also particularly the young people. Therefore it is necessary to open a discussion to comprehend the complexity of the present situation.
The core vision of ecumenism was evangelical awakening and it ought to be so. But ecumenical structures need to be reassessed in order to reflect changing times. The very breadth of present ecumenical organizations, the new opportunities to engage with grassroot movements and financial realities facing many organizations, point to the need for discussion on new models for ecumenical understanding, worship, service and work at local, regional and national levels. The challenge is that all the structures now involved in the ecumenical movement must be open to potentially far-reaching changes, and be willing to open themselves up to new partnerships and ways of working. Change must be led by the churches themselves. We need to recapture the vision that led to the birth of ecumenical movement as well as the founding of the NCCI.
The National Council of Churches in India just completed 90 years of its existence. It is still the most comprehensive and representative ecumenical organization in India representing the Protestant and Orthodox churches and Related Agencies. The reconfiguration discussion must recapture the sense of ecumenical movement because the ecumenical movement has been overcome by institutionalism. Therefore, we need to envisage a new configuration that is more flexible and responsive.
The time has also come to review the organizational and structural arrangements in the ecumenical movement which we have inherited from the generations before us, and to explore a new ecumenical configuration which can respond effectively to the challenges which lie ahead in the 21st century. What is needed is a common framework for policy-setting and decision-making. Structures also need to be more open and flexible as the ecumenical organizations address issues of mandates, membership, financial support, governance, and priority-setting.
A. Reaffirmation of the Theological Basis of the Ecumenical Movement
Affirmation of the theological dialogue about the nature of unity and the church is a priority for all ecumenical work and should be revitalized. The Faith and Order issues play a vital role. It has a central role to play in shaping the multilateral Dialogue on Faith and Order issues that unites and divides the Churches today, and in monitoring and mapping the many bilateral dialogues on church unity. A statement on the church as local/universal, living in unity/diversity is now being prepared for the 2006 WCC Assembly. Therefore one priority of NCCI is to continue to have theological reflection on the nature of the church, particularly on the biblical understandings and different theological interpretations of the church. We have no dearth of Indian Thinkers but what we need is coordination and a common as well as shared vision.
B. Mapping of Programmatic Work
A mapping study of existing programmatic work, of ecumenical as well as denominational bodies, and identifying who is doing what in which area of work and the financial resources that support these programmes is necessary. This would serve as a tool for avoiding duplication and fostering cooperation and could build on the Annual Ecumenical Partner Survey. Such a mapping exercise could also provide opportunities for mutual learning. As this is a substantial task, it may be necessary to limit the scope of the study. This mapping could be supplemented by case studies by appropriate bodies, in which a small group of people analyze and learn from specific examples of programmatic collaboration or overlap. In addition to this we have CBCI (Catholic Bishops' Conference in India , EFI (Evangelical Fellowship of India). Sharing of information as well as dialogue among ourselves on common issues could help in strengthening and drawing a larger map of our Christian witness.
C. Clarifying the Role of NCCI
It is absolutely necessary for National Councils of Churches in India to clarify programmatic roles, to discuss and formulate a common agenda and to stimulate collaborative action in order to achieve greater ecumenical coherence. We need to develop an appropriate process for furthering these discussions, by building on work carried out through the Common Understanding and Vision process to ensure that decisions are made closest to the people affected.
D. Clarifying the Role and Space of Agencies/Specialized ministries
Diakonia is an essential part of being church, and as agencies/specialized ministries are recognized as an integral and indispensable part of the ecumenical movement. But we need to invite the agencies /specialized ministries to discuss together the shape and form of their institutional space, its strategic planning and Information Sharing in the field of diakonia and development, relief and advocacy. Similarly, agencies/specialized ministries will want to share their plans with NCCI, which in turn will seek to share them more broadly with ecumenical partners and provide a forum for exchange of Information and Common Advocacy against injustice. There is a proposal for An Ecumenical Alliance for Development. The object is for a new global alliance of churches, church related agencies and specialized ministries who can work ecumenically in development.
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