Ecumeny at a Crossroads: Toward Unity or Community?

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The article is well written and well composed. It is a synthetic presentation of the most important goal of ecumenism. Although some parts of the article seem to be a mere repetition of well-known sources, discussions and ideas, it brings a fresh perspective on the subject of Christian unity and communion, especially since the author also refers to new research and approaches. The only doubt I have is about the overly categorical claims about the obstacles to ecumenism. In this regard, I missed any mention of ethical issues that divide the churches today even more than dogmatic issues (at least according to some theologians).

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Excellent contribution, which argues well on a very relevant topic by consistently developing its theses. 

The bibliography is adequate and cites leading authors, but it could probably be extended: of the 31 titles, more than a third are taken from three collective volumes that are cited several times, and in any case the bibliography is largely German. 

For example, on the reactions to Dominus Iesus, only contributions published in the volume LIT Verlag 2001 are cited, but some of the debates that took place in the periodicals of the time could certainly be added.

Other more important texts by some authors could also be cited; for example, with regard to Birmelé's positions, the recent volume on the Leuenberg Concordat published by Cerf 2023 deserves to be cited instead

In any case, these remain minor observations that do not prejudice the possibility of publishing the contribution as it is. 

Author Response

Please see the attachment

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf