My experience of ecumenism with Catholics is very positive. The general good ecumenical atmosphere in Finland is, of course, a factor. Likewise, a long common tradition unites and makes the Catholic Church more familiar than many other denominations. Also important are personal friendships that have strengthened the common faith experience and created a positive view of the Catholic Church. In addition, common prayer and mutual intercession have strengthened the ecumenical relationship with Catholics.
Although the Catholic Church in Finland is small, its importance as part of the worldwide Catholic Church is great, especially in ecumenism, and it can be a reference of living ecumenism for the Catholic Church as a whole. The Lutheran Church is the heir and successor of the Western Catholic Church. Even after the Reformation, the Lutheran Church still represents the same Christian faith that St. Henrik established in Finland.
As for ecumenical priorities, there are two in my mind. First, the churches need to continue the doctrinal dialogue patiently but actively. The goal is the visible unity of the Church of Christ. This can be achieved when there is sufficient doctrinal consensus among the Churches and when sacraments and ministry are recognized. Secondly, the secularization of Western society and the separation of people from the Christian faith are forcing the churches to become increasingly interconnected. Often in ecumenical discussions, a distinction is made between doctrinal and ethical ecumenism. In the face of today's challenges, it is important to keep these two aspects together, even in ecumenism. Faith and love are intrinsically linked.
If we are to follow the call of Jesus, we as Christians must work for unity. To be faithful to Jesus and to their own nature, the churches must engage in mutual dialogue and strive for the core of the faith. At the same time, it is encouraging to remember that unity is not the result of human effort but a gift of the Holy Spirit. And it is also the mission of the Church to build bridges and to remind us that as human beings we are sisters and brothers. The present state of society is crying out for the need of ecumenism! Ecumenism of hearts can be a very significant ecumenical force. Thus, ecumenism will not be a formal meeting or a visit, but above all a spiritual communion of growth towards the purpose of Jesus' prayer that we may be one.
Lutheran Bishop of Mikkeli (Finland)
