Definition

1. Noun:
   • A movement or principle aiming at worldwide Christian unity: In Christianity, ecumenism refers to the organized effort to promote cooperation, understanding, and eventual unity among different Christian churches and denominations.
   • A movement promoting unity among different religions: More broadly, ecumenism can refer to efforts to foster dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among the world's various religions.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The conference focused on ecumenism and interfaith dialogue.
  • His life's work was dedicated to the cause of ecumenism.
  • Theological discussions are a key part of modern ecumenism.

Advanced Usage

• "Spirit of ecumenism": Refers to an attitude or atmosphere characterized by a desire for unity and cooperation among different religious groups.
  • The meeting was conducted in a true spirit of ecumenism.
• "Ecumenism in action": Describes practical efforts or initiatives that embody the principles of the ecumenical movement.
  • The joint charity project was a powerful example of ecumenism in action.

Variants and Related Words

• Ecumenical (adj): Relating to or representing the whole Christian world, or promoting unity among religions.
  • An ecumenical council; an ecumenical service.
• Ecumenist (n): A person who advocates or works for ecumenism.
  • He was a noted ecumenist who bridged many divides.

Synonyms

• Interfaith dialogue: Conversation and cooperation between different religious traditions.
• Christian unity: The goal of uniting different Christian churches.
• Religious cooperation: Collaborative efforts among different faiths.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To build bridges": This phrase, while not exclusive to ecumenism, captures its core aim of fostering connections.
  • His ecumenical work was all about building bridges between communities.
• "To seek common ground": To look for shared beliefs or goals, a fundamental activity in ecumenism.
  • The path of ecumenism requires all parties to seek common ground.

Noun

1. (Christianity) the doctrine of the ecumenical movement that promotes cooperation and better understanding among different religious denominations: aimed at universal Christian unity
2. a movement promoting union between religions (especially between Christian churches)