Church Laws and Ecumenism: A New Path for Christian Unity

This book compares the legal regimes of Christian churches as systems of religious law and evaluates the Statement of Principles of Christian Law against the laws of these individual ecclesial communities. It is a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and policy-makers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book, written by experts from within their respective communities, delves into the intricate legal regimes of Christian churches as intricate systems of religious law. While the ecumenical movement, with its historical theological emphasis, has yet to adequately address the role of church law in fostering inter-church relations and promoting greater mutual understanding, theologians and jurists from diverse traditions have not collaborated extensively on a fully ecumenical appreciation of the potential value of church laws in achieving greater Christian unity. To rectify this ecumenical deficiency, this book takes into account the recent formulation of a Statement of Principles of Christian Law by an ecumenical panel, which has received enthusiastic endorsements from Pope Francis and the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, the leader of the Orthodox Church worldwide. This book not only offers a profound understanding of church laws within ten Christian traditions but also critically evaluates the Statement against the laws of these individual ecclesial communities.

This book is a vital resource for scholars of law, religion, theology, and sociology, as well as those engaged in religious institutions and policy-making. It sheds light on the complex legal frameworks that govern Christian churches, providing insights into the historical, cultural, and theological factors that shape these laws. By examining the Statement of Principles of Christian Law in the context of these diverse legal traditions, the book offers a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on the role of church law in the pursuit of Christian unity and inter-church relations.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of law and religion, offering a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the legal regimes of Christian churches and their significance in fostering greater Christian unity. It will be of immense value to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike, as it contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between law, religion, and society in the contemporary world.

Weight: 622g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367540586