Episcopal Church Opens Dialogue with African Methodists
Episcopal News Service. June 12, 1992 [92137N]
The first formal dialogue between the Episcopal Church and the three historic black Methodist churches in the United States opened in Washington, D.C., May 26, with a broad sharing of the history and ethos of the denominations. Bishops, deans, theologians, historians, and clergy were joined by distinguished ecumenical consultants in a series of lectures, memoirs, and papers that sought to clear up stereotypes and misconceptions. "The meeting was notable for its well-rounded analysis of the past, for its honest exchange of views, its expressions of hopes and frustrations, and a strong sense of fellowship and good will," said Dr. Guy Lytle II, dean of the School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. The next meeting will consider reports on issues of doctrine, liturgy, and church structure -- especially the nature of the episcopate -- prepared by members of the ecumenical commissions of the churches. Calling attention to a new international ecumenical dialogue between the Anglican Communion and the World Methodist Council, Lytle said that "there is good reason to hope for a growing understanding between all of these Christian bodies which claim and share a common heritage in Anglicanism and celebrate John Wesley as a revered spiritual ancestor. Together we are a blessed company of faithful people and this conversation hopes both to reclaim that heritage and to build a more integrated and inspiring future around a shared faith, worship, and commitment to social justice."