1st Edition
The Trinity and Ecumenical Church Thought The Church-Event
Some hundred years from inception, the ecumenical movement is stagnating. William C. Ingle-Gillis argues that the problem lies in modern ecumenism’s treatment of denominational Churches as provisional entities requiring reunion to be more fully Christ’s Body. In a work unique both to ecumenical studies and to trinitarian theology, the author redefines ecclesial life from the premise that God’s essence is personhood-in-communion and that the ultimate calling of human persons is to share as fully in the divine life as Christ himself. Concluding that the Churches are, by the Spirit’s action, a tangible, dynamic event, wherein God makes visible his on-going reconciliation of the world to himself, Ingle-Gillis argues that the Churches’ true life lies in coming-together, rather than being-together. This conclusion places ecumenism at the heart of Church life and witness.
Biography
William C. Ingle-Gillis is originally from Texas and grew up in the American South, with some schooling in the English Midlands. Following his undergraduate work in German and English and an MA in Religion (Church History) at Baylor University, in Waco, Texas, he earned a PhD at the University of London (King’s College) and seminary qualifications at the University of Cambridge (Westcott House). Dr Ingle-Gillis worked for several years as a lay-worker in a central London parish and for a time with homeless youth in Cardiff. He was ordained in 2004 and currently serves as a parish priest in Caldicot, South Wales, and Social Responsibility Officer for the Diocese of Monmouth.
’This book is a challenge to the current climate in ecumenism, and perhaps also a stimulus to pursue Christian unity with renewed confidence and energy, recognising that the process of growing together is in itself significant.’ Heythrop Journal ’... what emerges from this book is the view that the process of becomingunity is in itself a vitally significant challenge to modern ecumenism to reconsider its understanding of unity.’ Religious Studies Review ’This book is a significant addition to the growing chorus of writings that are calling for a re-assessment of the ecumenical movement. Its strength lies in taking plurality seriously and asking about its value in the purposes of God.’ Ecclesiology ’As an exploration of how a Trinitarian ecclesiology might be developed and play a part in ecumenical conversations, this book is to be welcomed.’ Regent's Reviews ’... this bold and constructive book is just what systematic theology needs, and its author should be congratulated on a book that moves theology in a helpful direction.’ Journal of Reformed Theology
