Ecumenism: Understanding the Movement and Its Symbols

The Ecumenical Symbol

Ecumenism, derived from the Greek word "oikoumene" meaning "the whole inhabited world," is the concept and practice of promoting cooperation and unity among different Christian denominations.[1] It's a movement that seeks to bridge the historical divisions within Christianity and foster closer relationships between various churches and Christian communities.[2] The ultimate goal is often described as achieving full communion, including the recognition of sacramental validity and eucharistic sharing, among different Christian denominations.[3]

Other Symbols

One of the most recognizable symbols of the ecumenical movement is the ecumenical symbol itself. This symbol depicts a boat afloat on the sea of the world, with the mast in the form of a cross.[4] This imagery is rooted in the Gospel story of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee.[5] The boat represents the Church, navigating the world, with the cross symbolizing faith and unity.[4] This symbol is used by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and other ecumenical organizations to represent their shared Christian vision and values.[6] The official color of the WCC logo is red (Pantone 1795, CMYK 10 100 100 0, RGB 218 33 40) on a white background.[6]

Beyond the primary ecumenical symbol, other symbols are associated with the movement. The Christian flag, though originating in the Wesleyan tradition, is also a key symbol.[7] The flag is white, representing peace, purity, and innocence; a blue square in the upper corner symbolizes heaven, faith, and trust; and a red cross in the center of the blue square represents Christianity and Christ's blood.[7] The Trinitarian Formula, the belief in God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, is another important symbol, often visually represented as a triangle with God in the center and the three persons of the Trinity at the corners.[8]

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