Definition

1. Noun:
   • A movement aimed to promote understanding and cooperation among Christian churches; aimed ultimately at universal Christian unity: The ecumenical movement is an organized effort among different Christian denominations to foster dialogue, collaboration, and a shared sense of community, with the long-term goal of achieving greater unity within Christianity.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The ecumenical movement gained significant momentum in the 20th century.
  • Many theologians are active participants in the ecumenical movement.
  • The council's declaration was a landmark achievement for the ecumenical movement.

Advanced Usage

• "to be a part of the ecumenical movement": to be involved in the organized effort for Christian unity.
  • Our church has decided to be a part of the ecumenical movement.
• "ecumenical movement's goals": referring to the specific aims of the movement, such as reconciliation and joint action.
  • The ecumenical movement's goals include resolving historical doctrinal differences.

Variants and Related Words

• Ecumenical (adj): Relating to or representing the whole Christian world; promoting unity among different Christian churches.
  • An ecumenical council.
• Ecumenism (n): The principle or aim of promoting unity among the world's Christian churches.
  • He dedicated his life to the cause of ecumenism.

Synonyms

• Interfaith dialogue (though this can be broader, including non-Christian religions).
• Christian unity movement.

Related Phrases

• Ecumenical dialogue: The conversations and discussions that are a primary activity within the ecumenical movement.
  • The bishops engaged in ecumenical dialogue for years.
• Ecumenical cooperation: The practical working together of different churches.
  • The charity project was an example of successful ecumenical cooperation.

Noun

1. a movement aimed to promote understanding and cooperation among Christian churches; aimed ultimately at universal Christian unity