Roman Catholic-Lutheran Church Canada

Beginnings

The Lutheran Church-Canada approached the CCCB indicating interest in establishing formal dialogue. Several initial meetings were held to get to explore this request and possible outcomes. The CCCB and the Lutheran Church-Canada embrace the ecumenical goal of Christian unity, which they agreed to pursue through dialogue, seeking to give together to the greatest degree possible common witness with regard to moral issues, and a fundamental witness to the Christian faith. This dialogue was formally established in June, 2013.

Purpose

To deepen understanding, to foster charity, and to develop common witness through exploration of doctrine and moral issues, and through celebration of appropriate forms of joint prayer.

Scope and Membership

• Topics for dialogue are chosen by the dialogue itself, with consultation with the sponsoring bodies: the CCCB and the LCC Commission on Theology and Church Relations and the Council of Presidents.
• Membership is chosen commensurate with the topic to be discussed, and mandated by the sponsoring bodies.
• Membership reflects a balance of academic, pastoral, and ecclesial leadership expertise.
• Current topics: “Toward the sacredness of marriage” and “From conflict to communion.”

The Lutheran Church Canada-Roman Catholic dialogue met for the first time in the fall of 2013, and subsequently aims to meet twice a year. In 2014, it was agreed that this dialogue committee would focus on four topics: Justification, the Eucharist, Ministry, as well as Scripture and Tradition. The group would then specialize in an area in need of further exploration. The dialogue also gave consideration of ways to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.