Marko Nikolić
Belgrade

ECUMENISM, ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT AND WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

Abstract

Ecumenism is much more Western "characterized", and related to achieve integration of Christian Churches. Western "organizational" approach is criticised by Orthodox Church, that insists on implementing theological criterions of Undivided Church. The foundation of Ecumenical Movement was initiated by Protestant Church, and accepted by Orthodox one. The focal point was related to social inter–church cooperation, that was institutionalized within World Council of Churches (WCC). WCC lacks clear ecclesiological identity, implement majority vote decision making, and intends to be involved in important universal political processes. Conference of European Churches (CEC) is similar Organization, while Parliament of World Religions is focused to increase the influence of Global Ethics in inter–religious relations.

Key words: Ecumenism, Ecumenical Movement, WCC, Protestant and Orthodox Church, religious and inter–church dialogue.