Controversial Issues Discussed at Unity Workshop
Diocesan Press Service. March 7, 1975 [75094]
SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- A number of participants at the recent National Workshop on Christian Unity, held in San Diego, expressed the belief that Christian unity no longer seems to be based on theological differences.
Replacing the usual arguments about Papal infallibility, the Immaculate Conception and credal phraseology, were penetrating discussions on such issues as abortion, school bussing, the American Revolution Bicentennial and public aid to education.
According to Dr. Jorge Lara-Braud, director of the Faith and Order Commission of the National Council of Churches, abortion is perhaps the most potentially divisive issue presently threatening the ecumenical movement.
In a keynote address to 245 Roman Catholic and Protestant delegates to the national workshop, Dr. Lara-Braud, a nationally-known Presbyterian layman, said persons on both sides of the abortion issue should attempt earnestly to understand the other side. Failure to love each other in spite of their differences, he added, would be a sign of spiritual "impoverishment. "
He said that he and others who approve of abortion must " stop to listen very seriously " to antiabortion arguments, but suggested in turn that antiabortionists display more concern for human life generally and the "quality of life."
Participants in the workshop generally agreed that the meetings were another step toward better understanding between the varied religious heritages involved.