Introduction to Ecumenical Christian Ethics

Christian ethics, as guiding principles of Christian praxis both for individuals and churches, have been a driving force for ecumenism as well as its obstacle.
In the first half of the course, we will follow the historical development of ecumenical social ethics, particularly in relation to the “Life and Work” stream, which has been both expressive and formative of the WCC-led ecumenical movement. We will then examine three major areas of such ethics, namely, justice, peace and ecology.
In the second half, acknowledging the fact that ethical issues have increasingly been divisive topics for churches in recent years, we will consider Protestant-Roman Catholic divergences, Orthodox positions, as well as a future prospect for ecumenical Christian ethics.