In session ten we observed Thomas Oden’s distinction between “old ecumenism” and “new ecumenism.” Be prepared to explain the differences between the two, not-ing the deficiencies of “old ecumenism” and the potential risks (if any) of “new ecu-menism.”
Oden describes that old ecumenism was characterized by accommodation to modernity in the form of excessive liberation theology. Oden describes this as “cheap and phony” in relation to the hard won ecumenism of the saints and martyrs. He then describes new ecumenism as rooted in the ancient ecumenical spirit. It is based on the unity already found in Christ. It is mindful of the excesses of the past. It is rooted in the seven ecu-menical councils from 325 to 787.
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