Though the churches are agreed in their general understanding of the calling of the people of God, they differ in their understanding of how the life of the Church is to be ordered. In particular, there are differences concerning the place and forms of the ordained ministry. As they engage in the effort to overcome these differences, the churches need to work from the perspective of the calling of the whole people of God.

A common answer needs to be found to the following question: How, according to the will of God under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is the life of the Church to be understood and ordered, so that the Gospel of God’s Word and sacraments may be spread and the community built up in love?

Read Dr. Lazareth’s essay, then join the discussion.