A Chronological Treatise of Ecumenism in Zimbabwe: The Place and Prospects of Eucharistic Intercommunion therein

Abstract

This article presents a chronological treatise of ecumenism in Zimbabwe and critically examines the role and place of Eucharistic intercommunion therein. As its point of departure, the article briefly traces the objectives of key ecumenical bodies in Zimbabwe and examines the various ecumenical predicaments and challenges associated with the same. Fundamentally, the article argues that whilst the ecumenical journey in Zimbabwe has achieved several significant and monumental strides on the religious, social and political landscapes, by design or default, Eucharistic intercommunion, has, however, remained one critical new frontier of ecumenical contact that relentlessly calls for pastoral attention. Ever since the establishment of Christianity in Zimbabwe over a century ago, it has been observed that common sharing of the Eucharist among Zimbabwe's various Christian denominations has not been fully implemented. Consequently, this has impacted negatively on the Eucharist which has traditionally been regarded as a symbol and sacrament of Christian unity, fellowship and re-conciliation.The article concludes by acknowledging and affirming the various theological and pastoral challenges that continue to pose as obstacles to Eucharistic intercommunion as an emerging area of ecumenical contact, not just in Zimbabwe but globally.