Ut unum sint
Ut unum sint is an encyclical on ecumenism by Pope John Paul II of 25 May 1995. It was one of 14 encyclicals he issued, and Cardinal Georges Cottier, Theologian Emeritus of the Pontifical Household, was influential in its drafting.
Like many encyclicals, this one derives its title from its "incipit" or first few words. These words are taken from the prayer of Jesus "at the hour of his Passion" in the Vulgate translation of the Gospel according to John. The document deals with the Catholic Church's relations with the Eastern Orthodox Church and other Christian ecclesial communities. It reiterates that unity of these two sui juris churches is essential, as well as further dialogue and unity with the Protestant churches. This document shows that the Catholic Church is officially committed to unity. It has become a common piece of study in ecumenical classes.
Although it builds on the Second Vatican Council's decree, Unitatis redintegratio, and pays testimony to the work of Popes Paul VI and John Paul I, Ut unum sint was the first encyclical ever devoted exclusively to the ecumenical imperative. In this groundbreaking exercise of the papal magisterium, Pope John Paul affirmed that the ecumenical commitment made at Vatican II was irreversible. He taught his fellow Catholics that the quest for Christian unity ought to be sustained both internationally and in the local churches.
Summary
Paragraph 9 summarises the place of Christian unity in the Church's thinking:In paragraph 54, the Pope wrote that "the Church must breathe with her two lungs!"
In paragraph 79, five subjects are noted to be "in need of fuller study before a true consensus of faith can be achieved":
- The relationship between Sacred Scripture, as the highest authority in matters of faith, and Sacred Tradition, as indispensable to the interpretation of the Word of God;
- The Eucharist, as the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ, an offering of praise to the Father, the sacrificial memorial and Real Presence of Christ and the sanctifying outpouring of the Holy Spirit;
- Ordination, as a Sacrament, to the threefold ministry of the episcopate, presbyterate and diaconate;
- The Magisterium of the Church, entrusted to the Pope and the Bishops in communion with him, understood as a responsibility and an authority exercised in the name of Christ for teaching and safeguarding the faith;
- The Virgin Mary, as Mother of God and Icon of the Church, the spiritual Mother who intercedes for Christ's disciples and for all humanity.
Text
- Chapter 1 - The Catholic Church's Commitment to Ecumenism
- Chapter 2 - The Fruits of Dialogue
- Chapter 3 - Quanta Est Nobis Via?
The ultimate goal of the ecumenical movement is to "re-establish full visible unity among all the baptized".
"It is understandable how the seriousness of the commitment to ecumenism presents a deep challenge to the Catholic faithful. The Spirit calls them to make a serious examination of conscience."