Resources for Study

Christian Perspectives on Inter-religious Relations

Ariarajah, S. Wesley. “Theological Perspectives on Plurality: A Significant Ecumenical Consultation in Baar, Switzerland", World Council of Churches, 1991. http://www.wcc-coe.org/wcc/what/interreligious/baar.html.
A statement by Orthodox, Protestant, and Roman Catholic leaders, convened by The World Council of Churches.

Heim, Mark, editor. "Grounds for Understanding: Ecumenical Resources for Responses to Religious Pluralism"; Eerdmans, 1998.
Includes papers from members of a wide variety of Christian denominations reflecting their perspectives on inter-religious relationships; instigated by participants in the Faith and Order process.
National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA:

"Interfaith Relations and the Churches", NCC Policy Statement, 1999,   online at www.ncccusa.org/interfaith.
Describes areas of agreement, and divergence among NCCC churches in perspectives on inter-religious relations. Draws attention to areas where more dialogue among Christians is needed.

"Interfaith Relations and Christian Living: Study and Action Suggestions"; Online at www.ncccusa.org/interfaith.
Study Guide for use with Interfaith Relations and the Churches, 2000 (above). Includes suggestions for study, followed by visits to congregations of other faiths. Bibliography of resources included.

Pope Paul VI. “Nostra Aetate: Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-christian Religions"; The Vatican, 1965. http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decl_19651028_nostra-aetate_en.html.
The authoritative teaching of the Roman Catholic Church on inter-religious relationships.

Roman Catholic Groups and Resources

Vision New England recommends: "The Rebirth of Orthodoxy" by Thomas C. Oden, Harper San Francisco, 2003; and The Transformation of American Religion, by Alan Wolfe, Free Press/Simon & Schuster, 2003.

World Council of Churches. "My Neighbour’s Faith – and Mine: A Study Guide";  WCC, 1986.
A small group study guide addressing theological topics from scriptures to the significance of Christ, as well as issues of community, hope, and vision in a religiously plural world.

World Council of Churches. "Ecumenical Considerations - for Dialogue and Relations with People of Other Religions".

(For more resources, visit our Interfaith page.)

Resources and policy statements from our member denominations may be found at:

American Baptist Churches in the USA-statements on: anti-semitism;
                                                    prejudice; reconciliation
Episcopal Church
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
United Church or Christ
United Methodist Church



 

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