The Eucharist in Anglican/Roman Catholic international dialogue, where do we go from here?

grantor: University of St. Michael's CollegeThe present study is an analysis of the historical and theological developments in the understanding of the Eucharist between Anglicans and Roman Catholics through the work of the Anglican/Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC). The study takes as its starting point the 1966 "Common Declaration" between the Archbishop of Canterbury and Pope Paul VI, and traces the various steps leading to the formulation of the Agreed Statement on Eucharistic Doctrine (Windsor Statement) in 1971 as well as its reception by both the theologians and "official" churches bodies in the years to follow. Particular attention is given to such controversial issues as sacrifice and the meaning of anamnesis, adoration and reservation of the Eucharist, the Real Presence of Christ, and the proper meaning of "substantial agreement." The final chapter examines the problems which have developed between the two churches in the last twenty years, problems which have hindered further relations (e.g., the Anglican Communion's decision to ordain women and the Roman Catholic Church's deepened stance against the ordination of women). The study concludes on a hopeful note that despite these obstacles, dialogue between Anglicans and Roman Catholics will continue so that full visible unity will one day be possible.M.A