Book Description

This collection of essays offers a framework for reflection and study by United Methodist laity, clergy, and seminarians seeking to live into our faith’s commitment to ecumenism and interfaith relationships. The vision and voices of writers from around the world are indispensable in understanding the biblical, historical, and theological basis for ecumenical and interreligious work. The writers are Warner H. Brown, Jr. Sudarshana Devadhar, Gaspar Joao Domingos, Adam Hamilton, Benjamin L. Hartley, Hee Soo Jung, Gladys Mangiduyos, Glen A. Messer II, Bruce R. Ough, Stephen Sidorak, Jr., Mary Ann Swenson, and Rosemarie Wenner. Read what others are saying... “This sparkling book celebrates the wide-armed embrace of God’s love. Drawing from personal stories, historical narratives, texts of the Wesleyan and United Methodist traditions, and biblical witness, the authors challenge people to ponder ecumenical and interreligious relations. They offer perspectives and questions that are deeply biblical and Wesleyan and are urgent in a world torn by conflict. They shine light on polarizations and possibilities in the United Methodist Church, the Christian Church universal, and the whole human family. The book is an invitation to reflect but, more important, to pause and appreciate the largesse of God’s love that binds people across chasms of difference.” —Dean Mary Elizabeth Moore Boston University School of Theology “This book is a wonderful resource for all who take seriously the prayer for unity Jesus prayed in John 17:20-21. The authors represent a rich diversity of voices from across the globe, all calling us to focus on that which binds us together in love. I heartily recommend this book to all who are interested in building bridges of unity.” —Dr. Clayton Oliphint Senior Pastor, First United Methodist Church, Richardson, Texas "I urge all United Methodists to read Celebrating God's Love in preparation for the 2016 General Conference, because it serves as a valuable reminder of our commitment to ecumenical and interreligious relationships and dialogue." —Jim Winkler President and General Secretary National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA