|
|
|
"There is nothing novel or surprising in the recent statement from the Vatican,' says Presbyterian Moderator Dr Trevor Morrow .
'This is the classic position of the Roman Catholic Church. It is consistent with their own self-understanding. If one believes that one is the 'Mother Church' then other Christian communities may manifest the presence of Christ but the Churches of the Reformation cannot be sister churches.
'The classic position of the Presbyterian Church is that there is only one king and head of the Church, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Roman Catholic Church is therefore a Christian Church in error, whose understanding of the church, of authority, of the eucharist, and in many other areas is defective.
'Rightly, each faith community holds its 'truth' claims with conviction. However, what is important for us at this time is the manner in which we do this. First, all Churches ought to be much more self critical and open to reformation and change. Second, we ought to engage in dialogue because we disagree. Third, in the context of our differences we need to show that we love one another as Christ has loved us.'
Issued by Stephen Lynas, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
PCI Home . . . Press Office . . . News Archive