If you thought that the International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin, Ireland, this June was just for Catholics, you would be wrong. “There is a genuine sense of excitement and expectation right across the Christian traditions in Ireland”, says Rev. Michael Jackson, the Anglican Archbishop of Dublin….
It may be the 50th global gathering of the Catholic Church on the Eucharist, but from the outset the Catholic Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Diarmuid Martin, decided this Congress should also become an opportunity to further the ecumenical journey in Ireland, which for historical reasons has often been an uphill climb. On the opening day of the Congress, Monday June 11th, pilgrims will explore the theme, Communion in One Baptism with key-note addresses from Br. Alois Löser (Prior of the Taizé Community, France), Dr Maria Voce (President of Focolare) and Metropolitan Hilarion Alfeyev (Metropolitan Archbishop of Volokolamsk -Russian Orthodox).
Gathering at the Lord’s Table to share the Holy Eucharist with Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Eastern Orthodox, Protestants, etc. is a wonderful idea. In my opinion, Christianity is nowhere more divided than at the Lord’s Table.
Interestingly, the Anglican Archbishop Jackson will preside at the Ecumenical Liturgy.One wonders whether the table would be open to all baptized Christians if that weren’t the case.
Regardless, I pray that all will come to the Ecumenical Liturgy, and that all will participate.
I can’t speak for any other groups but the Orthodox Church doesn’t do inter-communion. That said I am all for a friendly discussion.