This book evaluates William Temple's theology and his pursuit of church unity. It exposes a number of paradoxes and conflicts that have generally gone under-appreciated in assessments of Temple.
William Temple was one of the most outstanding leaders of the early ecumenical movement. In many ways his ecumenical efforts provided a paradigm others have looked to and followed. Through detailed analysis of primary sources, this study sheds light on several behind-the-scenes conflicts Temple experienced as he worked toward church unity. Edward Loane explores the foundation of Temple's work by analyzing the philosophy and theology that underpinned and fueled it. The book also exposes the tensions between Temple's denominational allegiance and his ecumenical convictionsa tension that, in some ways, undermined his work for reunion. This book reveals issues that contemporary Christians need to grapple with as they seek to further church unity.

Presents a detailed study of William Temple's personal correspondence Investigates the little-discussed internal battle that Temple fought against some of his own prejudices as he pursued church unity Details Temple's profound impact on successive generations of Christians around the issue of church unity

Autorentext

Edward Loane teaches doctrine and church history at Moore College, Australia. He received his PhD from Cambridge University, UK, in 2015. During his studies he taught church history at Wales Evangelical School of Theology (WEST), Bridgend, UK, and was an honorary curate in the diocese of Ely. Prior to this Edward served in parish ministry in Sydney, Australia.

Inhalt

1. William Temple and Church Unity: Framing the Debate and Providing the Context.- 2. Temple's Philosophy and Theology of Church Unity.- 3. Anglican Church Unity: Bridge and Barrier.- 4. Home Reunion: 'So Close and Yet So Far'.- 5. South India: 'Reunion by Destruction'.- 6. William Temple and the World Council of Churches: Church Unity 'Lite'.- 7. War-time Opportunities and Threats.- Conclusion.