It would be understandable if ecumenical relations between the Episcopal Church and other churches had cooled, given the rejection of the Concordat of Agreement by the Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCA) last August [p. 14]. But it would seem that, if anything, ecumenical activity involving Episcopalians has increased. Diocesan newspapers and parish newsletters sent to TLC indicate a high level of participation between Episcopalians and Lutherans during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Jan. 18-25. Lutherans and Episcopalians will be worshiping together, discussing similarities and differences, and participating in joint programs. It is also encouraging to note the formation of a new committee of theologians from both churches to study possible revisions to the Concordat of Agreement.

It is heartening, also, to note ecumenical activity is alive and well on other fronts, mostly at the diocesan or local levels. Episcopalians and Roman Catholics continue to sign covenant relationships and to participate in joint ministries. Episcopal churches are forming relationships with Orthodox congregations in Russia. Episcopalians continue to be enthusiastic participants in community-wide celebrations of Thanksgiving or Martin Luther King Day. In one unusual event, the Bishop of Fort Worth concelebrated the Eucharist at a healing seminar with bishops of the Episcopal Missionary Church and the Charismatic Episcopal Church. It is also hopeful to remember that the church's new Presiding Bishop, the Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold, is experienced with, and a strong supporter of, ecumenical ministries.

For those of us not involved in ecumenical events during this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which falls between the feast days of St. Peter and St. Paul, it is a good time for us to pray for the unity of the churches. Prayer 14 on page 818 of the Book of Common Prayer is especially appropriate at this time.