The ELCA and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) have resumed a bilateral dialogue that will define a new ecumenical relationship for common mission and ministry.
In a March 10 meeting, leaders from the two church bodies resumed the dialogue that had begun in 2004 but been put on hold due to leadership and staff changes at both churches.
“We celebrate the resumption of this dialogue with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) as a sign of the visible unity that is already ours in Christ Jesus,” said Elizabeth Eaton, ELCA presiding bishop. “This dialogue will intentionally draw from the deep well of shared mission and ministry in local and regional settings, while tending to the complex theological questions that arise between us as churches. In this way, we hope to be open to the work of the Holy Spirit and the possibility of new forms of ecumenical relationship that serve the gospel and enrich the body of Christ.”
