Page 280 - Orthodoxy Zizioulas

O r t h o d o x y
new situation for Orthodoxy. Given the predominance of
Protestant Churches within the Council and the Roman Cath-
olic Church’s initial absence, the Orthodox found themselves
in dialogue with a wide range of Western traditions. The orig-
inal basis for membership—faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and
Savior—caused concern, later somewhat alleviated by its Trin-
itarian reformulation in 1961. Yet important issues remain
unresolved.
The results of Orthodox participation have not been spec-
tacular in terms of visible unity, but they are historically sig-
nificant. The overcoming of mutual ignorance and misunder-
standing between Orthodox and Protestants, which prevailed
for centuries, is itself a major achievement. Progress has oc-
curred both theologically and through practical collaboration.
This engagement has drawn Orthodoxy out of its “exotic”
isolation and given it a central role in contemporary Christi-
anity, while also enriching the ecumenical movement. The
Orthodox contribution—Trinitarian theology, liturgical life,
patristic tradition, and the vision of theosis—has broadened
the theological horizons of other Churches. The emphasis on
the Eucharist as central to the life of the Church has also
gained wider recognition, as reflected in Faith and Order texts
such as Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry. These achievements,
however, are accompanied by challenges, since Orthodoxy
and Protestantism approach the purpose of the ecumenical
movement from different perspectives.
Certain issues will shape Orthodox participation in the
years ahead.
The constitutional structure of the World Council of
Churches affects the Orthodox contribution. Initially, Ortho-
doxy was seen as complementing Western traditions. With the
expansion of the Council, however, the geographical principle
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