Timely and Inspiring Prophetic Analysis so you can Prepare.

Pope Francis met with senior members of the World Methodist Council, the Methodist Council of Europe and the Methodist Church in Britain, among others, during the opening of the new Methodist Ecumenical Office in Rome. The centre is a sign of a “growing closeness” between the two churches and the desire to “overcome all that stands in the way of our full communion,” he said.

The pope met the Methodists at the Vatican in private audience after the events marking the opening of the new centre, in which Vatican representatives were present. Others attending the celebrations were representatives of the Archbishop of Canterbury in Rome, and representatives of other churches in Rome.

The pope cited John Wesley, one of the founders of Methodism, and said members of both communities must help one another “in whatever leads to the kingdom.” John Wesley, no doubt would have reacted very negatively to the pope’s use of his words that way. Wesley clearly understood the nature of Roman Catholicism and viewed it as anti-Christ.

Referring to the early Methodists, Pope Francis said that Catholics and Methodists can still learn from one another how holiness is lived and understood. Can Methodists really understand holiness from the Catholic Church that teaches anything but true holiness?

Pope Francis also said Methodists and Catholics should meet regularly to become better acquainted. Though differences still exist, the pope said that continued dialogue “based on respect and fraternity” continues to enrich both communities. And “although Catholics and Methodists cannot “yet think alike in all things, at least we may love alike,” he added.

“And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him…” Revelation 13:8

Source References

• Catholics and Methodists can teach each other about holiness, says Pope Francis

• Methodists and pope to meet at launch of new ecumenical office