As a symbol of the distance that still remains, they were not able to share the Eucharist, however. Healing wounds of the past Carey said that, during their time together, the bishops were able to celebrate those similarities, a common commitment to unity. And we have to live with the mystery of God and the mystery of the church, as well. For example, some Protestants object to dialogue with Roman Catholics. Polemics lead to hatred and division.
Partnership leads to the promise of mutual service and eventual union.
Anglicanism and Roman Catholicism had a more human face. And they knew that pursuing a relationship in greater depth can't be done through documents alone. For example, prayer every morning revealed commonalities. For some, the common liturgical tradition was a surprising discovery. Solheim is director of the Episcopal Church's Office of News and Information.