(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 12.16.2024).- On the morning of December 16, Pope Francis welcomed a delegation of Methodist leaders to the Vatican, delivering a heartfelt message of unity, mutual respect, and the ongoing journey toward greater Christian fellowship. His address highlighted the shared faith and responsibilities of Catholics and Methodists, underscoring a commitment to deepening their bond through dialogue, prayer, and service.
From Division to Fellowship
Reflecting on the historical relationship between Catholics and Methodists, Pope Francis acknowledged the significant transformation over the past six decades. “For a long time, we were strangers, even suspicious of one another,” he noted. “But today, we give thanks to God for the journey we have taken together, one that has been marked by growing knowledge, understanding, and, most importantly, mutual love.”
This shift, he emphasized, is not merely intellectual but profoundly spiritual. “Peace-building is a task of the heart,” he said, urging Christians to let Christ’s love transform their relationships. By allowing Jesus’ heart to touch their own, communities can unite their diverse perspectives and desires under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Looking Toward Nicea’s Anniversary
The Pope also pointed to the upcoming 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicea in 2025 as a powerful reminder of shared Christian roots. He called on all Christians to use this milestone as an opportunity to bear witness to God’s presence in the world through acts of hope and unity.
Quoting from his recent apostolic letter Spes Non Confundit, Francis reiterated the imperative of striving for visible unity: “It is an invitation to all Churches and ecclesial communities to continue the journey toward unity, never tiring of seeking ways to fully respond to Jesus’ prayer: ‘That they may all be one.’”
In a moment of humor, Francis recalled a statement by the late Orthodox theologian, Metropolitan John Zizioulas, who famously remarked that the day of Christian unity would likely arrive “the day after the Last Judgment.” Despite this playful observation, the Pope encouraged continued efforts in the here and now—praying, serving, and walking together as brothers and sisters.
Recognizing the Work of Dialogue
The Pope concluded by expressing gratitude for those involved in Catholic-Methodist dialogue. He praised the theologians and pastors serving on the Joint International Commission for Dialogue between the World Methodist Council and the Catholic Church, encouraging them to maintain their dedication to fostering understanding and unity.
A Journey of Hope and Collaboration
Pope Francis’s meeting with Methodist leaders serves as a poignant reminder of the shared mission that transcends denominational lines. By focusing on the heart of Christ as the foundation for relationships and service, the Pope reaffirmed his vision of a Church committed to building bridges, one step at a time, while keeping its sights firmly on the promise of unity.
In the words of the Pope, “As we walk this path together, let us be guided by the Spirit, always oriented toward the heart of Christ. It is there that we learn to relate well to one another and serve the Kingdom of God.”
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