An appeal to discuss ecumenical models and objectives was made by Cardinal Karl Lehmann, President of the German Bishops’ Conference, in inaugurating the autumn plenary of the bishops, held in Fulda from 24 to 27 September. “We need to revive this discussion, quick to be initiated but then interrupted”, he urged. The cardinal also referred to the Motu proprio that has recently aroused strong criticism on the part of Protestants and said he was “convinced of the need to continue the process begun in ecumenical dialogue”, though admitting that “the questions are more difficult, and impatience is growing”. On the authentically ecclesiastical character of other Christian communities, touched on in the papal document, Lehmann explained, in the light of the Second Vatican Council, that “the Catholic Church cannot renounce its own claim to substantial identity with the Church of Jesus Christ”. However, he added, the Church “does not propound an exclusive and absolute model of identity, but perceives in other communities of Christian faith an authentic participation in the one Church. This permits real completion and a sincere dialogue”. Commenting on the controversy that has accompanied the publication of the Vatican document, Lehmann suggested the need for “deeper reflection on how to publish a document on these issues without running into considerable misunderstandings and troubles before a world audience”.
