There
is a directness about this exchange that I find refreshing as
it reminds us of the central role of reading and hearing Scripture.
However, while I want to affirm the unique contribution that
the Reformation figures gave us, I also want to do it in a way
that addresses the ecumenical needs and sensitivities of our
time and place. So here is another way to honor Reformation
Day: Use this historical occasion as a way to celebrate the
Formula of Agreement that was adopted five years ago by the
PC(USA), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Reformed
Church in America, and the United Church of Christ. According
to the Formula of Agreement, “Full communion means that
these four churches:
- recognize each other as churches in which the Gospel is
rightly preached and the sacraments administered according
to the Word of God;
- withdraw any historic condemnation by one side or the other
as inappropriate for the life and faith of our churches today;
- continue to recognize each other’s Baptism and authorize
and encourage the sharing of the Lord’s Supper among
their members;
- recognize each other’s various ministries and make
provision for the orderly exchange of ordained ministers of
Word and Sacrament;
- establish appropriate channels of consultation and decision-making
within the existing structures of the churches;
- commit ourselves to an ongoing process of theological dialogue
in order to clarify further the common understanding of the
faith and foster its common expression in evangelism, witness,
and service;
- pledge ourselves to living together under the Gospel in
such a way that the principle of mutual affirmation and admonition
becomes the basis of a trusting relationship in which respect
and love for the other will have a chance to grow.”
What better time than Reformation Day to join the fifth anniversary
celebration of this historic agreement? This is an opportunity
to both remember our historical distinctives and begin to act
in ecumenical partnership with neighboring congregations. A
worship service to celebrate the fifth anniversary is available
online and can be accessed through the Web
site.
This fall celebrate Reformation Day as an ecumenical event
that unites Christians of different backgrounds.
Formula of Agreement
Official text available online at www.pcusa.org/oga/agreement-anniversary.htm |
