Beschreibung
Ecclesiology is in the center of current ecumenical
dialogue. However, this hardly seems to influence
theological reflection on church polity. This book explores
new avenues in this respect, in an attempt to enhance a
truly ecumenical and inter-cultural approach of the
theological discipline of church polity, without neglecting
its juridical character. Key issues like liturgy and
ordained ministry are featured, as well as concepts like
missional church, synodality, episcopacy, and many others.
Examples from Roman Catholic and Anglican canon law as well
as from a number of Protestant church orders clarify the
issues at stake. Finally, its contextual approach stimulates
new reflection on church – state relationships. Does a
deeper ecumenical understanding of the nature and mission of
the church foster a renewal of church polity?
Dr. Leo J. Koffeman (1948) is Professor of
Church Polity and Ecumenism at the Protestant Theological
University (Amsterdam). He is a member of the Faith and
Order Commission.
