‘Is that nice woman a Catholic?’: Ecumenism, kenosis and intercession

Abstract

This essay explores the relationship between kenosis as a spiritual disposition, and intercession as making space to welcome others. Autobiographical episodes of ecumenical encounter, positive and negative, seek to earth theological reflection on kenotic intercession in lived experience of inter-church relations over a lifetime of ministry. It argues that self-giving love expressed in intercession, makes welcoming space into which others are invited and heard. This creates a context within which ecumenical relationships can be more hopefully nurtured. The correlation of kenosis and intercession arises from attentiveness to John 17, Philippians 2 and Ephesians 4.