adjective
ecumenical
ek-yoo-MEN-ih-kul/ˌekjuːˈmenɪkl/
Promoting unity across different traditions, especially Christian churches.
Clergy from different Christian traditions gather for an ecumenical meeting.
Etymology
The Greek adjective meant “of the whole world.” Applied to the entire Christian world, that breadth connects to the modern aim of unity across churches rather than concern with one church alone.
In context
We have to hold an ecumenical council of Greek bishops and Latin bishops.
More examples
- Catholics and Protestants join in an ecumenical prayer service.
- The ecumenical council helps local churches work together.
- Her ecumenical approach brings different philosophical traditions into conversation.
Forms
ecumenical
ecumenism noun — Efforts to promote unity among Christian churches.
Similar words
- interdenominational
- Involving multiple denominations, without necessarily working toward their unity.
- interfaith
- Connecting different religions, rather than primarily different Christian traditions.