Baptists and Catholics: International theological conversations

The fourth session of the third phase of theological conversations between the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity (PCPCU) was held from 6‒10 December focusing on identifying forms of common witness between Baptists and Catholics. During the two online meetings, comprising the start and conclusion of proceedings, the group also agreed on a consensus regarding the final report, which should be finalized at the 2022 meeting to take place in Rome. (PRESS RELEASE).

Respecting current healthcare restrictions, the meeting adopted a hybrid model of work. The group met in‒presence at Duke University in Durham, NC, USA, led by Professor Elizabeth Newman, Chair of the BWA Commission for Baptist Doctrine and Christian Unity, and Emeritus Bishop Arthur Serratelli of Patterson, USA, Catholic Co‒President of the conversations, with the participation of Professor Steven Harmon, Baptist Co‒Secretary. The group was joined online by members from South America, among whom Reverend Pastor Thomas Mackay, BWA President.

The rest of the group, comprising members from Europe, Asia and Australia, held online discussions coordinated by Reverend Frank Rees, University of Divinity, Melbourne, Australia, and Monsignor Juan Usma, PCPCU, respectively Baptist Co‒President and Catholic Co‒Secretary of the conversations.