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The Busted Halo Question Box
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This is the place where you can ask all of those burning questions that you wouldn't dare ask in person. We will post questions here (using your byline only with permission); we guarantee an answer to everyone.

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Our readers asked:

If other Christians interpret the bible differently from Catholics, how can we ever be united?

Rev. Leo A. Walsh, S.T.D. Answers:

This is a very insightful question. Sometimes the differences in interpretation of Scripture and Tradition seem overwhelming. However, unity is possible because Christ prayed for it at the Last Supper “that they all be one…so that the world may believe.” Thus, as John Paul II said in Paragraph 20 of Ut Unum Sint, “the movement promoting Christian unity, is not just some sort of “appendix” which is added to the Church’s traditional activity. Rather, ecumenism is an organic part of her life and work, and consequently must pervade all that she is and does.” (See: http://www.vatican.va/edocs/ENG0221/_INDEX.HTM)
So unity is possible, it’s just a matter of how. The principle to keep in mind here is that of convergence (which is very different from compromise ). Namely, in the theological dialogues, delegates begin first by exploring what their traditions already agree upon. Then they move on to those issues which are still divisive. Almost always, we find that what we have in common is much more that what still divides. As they continue their deliberations, sometimes for years or even decades, new insights and articulations emerge in which both sides can recognize the full expression of their faith. This is the point of convergence. It takes time, lots of effort, and LOTS of grace. But the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Unity, is very much at work in the process.

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The Author : Rev. Leo A. Walsh, S.T.D.
The Rev. Leo A. Walsh, S.T.D., formerly the Interreligious Affairs specialist at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, is now pastor of St. Benedict's Parish in Anchorage, Alaska. Photo Credit: Bob Roller, Catholic News Service (CNS).
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