Ecclesiology and Mission
Communion has been the hermeneutical framework for comprehending the nature and mission of the Church. Despite differences in understanding and applying the concept, and divisions over a number of theological questions, churches ascribing to it, have developed a common theological language and share a considerable common ground.
Increased migration in Europe has been changing the ecclesial landscape. European churches with historical longevity have now spread into new contexts. Vibrant Evangelical and Pentecostal churches are growing, charismatic movements are emerging, and ancient Oriental churches are finding a new home in European societies.
In view of this reality, CEC facilitates theological dialogue among its Member Churches and National Councils of Churches to examine their understanding of Church unity and witness in conversation with “migrant” and “minority ethnic” churches in Europe.
CEC’s work in this area is founded on the Charta Œcumenica, a joint document of CEC and the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE) signed by the presidents of the two organisations in 2001. The document seeks to strengthen fellowship among churches. Learn more and read here responses to the Charta Œcumenica presented by our Member Churches, National Councils of Churches and Organisations in Partnership.
For the period 2018 to 2023 our work focuses on the following areas:
- Evaluating the impact of the Charta Œcumenica
- Facilitating dialogue on questions of ecclesiology and mission
- Exploring Christian unity together with “migrant” and “minority ethnic” churches
- Studying the mutual recognition of baptism in Europe
Print This Page
Related posts
-
6 Jul, 2016
The Holy and Great Council: Reflections from CEC President Rt Rev. Christopher Hill KCVO, DD
Other Churches, not least members of CEC have been looking with profound interest and prayer at the planned Holy and Great Council of the 14 independent and autocephalous Orthodox Churches throughout the world which met in Crete from 20 -25 June
-
27 Jun, 2016
Holy and Great Council draws to a close: An expression of Church unity, witness to faith in Christ
The Conference of European Churches commends its Orthodox Member Churches for the successful proceedings of the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church, held on 20 to 25 June in Crete. The Council was an expression of Church unity, and thus of great ecumenical significance.
-
1 Jun, 2016
The Church – Towards a Common Vision: A response based on the Consultation on Migration and Ecclesiology – Being Church in Europe Today
The Church – Towards a Common Vision – A response based on the Consultation on Migration and Ecclesiology – Being Church in Europe Today was issued at a consultation held in 2016, Copenhagen.
-
25 Mar, 2015
CEC Governing Board meets, approves 2015-2018 working roadmap
The governing board of the Conference of European Churches met in Brussels on 24 and 25 March. The special meeting was devoted to an in-depth review of CEC programmatic work for 2015 through 2018.
-
7 Dec, 2014
CSC Celebrates Merger with CEC, Governing Board meets
The governing bodies of the Church and Society Commission met on 2 and 3 December in Leuven, Belgium to legally finalise its merger with the Conference of European Churches under Belgian law. The group also tended to other business matters including a review of its programmatic work by executive staff, its finances, and plans for continuing the mission and mandate of CSC in this time of transition.