When we realize that we have as much to receive as we have to give, that we need one another, we discover that diversity is a source of riches rather than a threat. We are Christians, and we belong to different denominations and traditions. Unity in diversity is not about seeking neutral territory, but rather better understanding each one of our traditions, which may mean accepting discomfort and pain as well as joy and delight. Unity is a mystery, which belongs to Christ and is in Christ. Our divisions are part of the mystery - whilst we may not find unity between us, we remain his Body, and he the Head.
True unity comes only through conversion led by the Holy Spirit, who grants us to share in the suffering caused by division and convicts us of our sin. Disunity is scandalous, affecting much more than our expressions of faith. To strive for Christian unity is to work for peace in the world across all spheres and divisions. We desire to be disarmed, to truly listen to one another, to learn to disagree well. We lay down our own judgments in favor of God’s means and vision. We are called to be bold and creative, and to hope beyond all hope.
John 17:20-23
Unity is the overflow of community life. Jesus prayed for unity of Christians (John 17) – this starts with participating in what we can already do together, which in turn gives us hope and opens doors to navigating our differences.
We seek and build unity through our shared daily life, and by allowing our different church heritages to inform how we worship together, visiting one another’s churches, as well as pioneering and praying new ideas to reignite dialogue between different Christian confessions.
The Community at the Crossing is open to any Christian from any denomination.
It is an initiative of the Episcopal Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, in partnership with the Chemin Neuf Community (a Roman Catholic community with an ecumenical vocation).
