"Theological dialogue is an essential part to recover the full communion we long for; for this reason, it has to be fostered and encouraged". In this perspective, if "significant steps forward have been made with reference to both theological dialogue and the strengthening and the growth of ecclesial brotherhood in the relationships with the Orthodox Churches and with the old Orthodox Churches of the Orient", on the other hand, the relationships "with the World Lutheran Federation, with the World Methodist Council, with the Anglican Communion, and with the World Reformed Alliance" are "at intermediate stages", requiring "an objective examination of achieved results", without avoiding "to point out, with great honesty, the steps still to be taken". Today, during the hearing with the participants in the plenary session of the Papal Council for the Promotion and Unity of the Christians, Benedict XVI took stock of the state of health of ecumenical dialogue. The theme faced by the plenary session was “Reception and future of ecumenical dialogue”. The Pope pointed out that "to a greater and greater extent, this dialogue takes place in the context of ecclesial relations, which are extending, thank God, and are involving not just Pastors, but all the various components and branches of the People of God". (To be continued)” “
