A Brief Explanation of Each Clause of the Covenant
A. Jesus' Prayer that...
The church recognizes that unity is the goal towards which all denominations must grow. Ultimate unity is not simply a "confederation of churches", but is One Body sharing One Eucharist keeping the integrity of all the charisms of the church intact.
B. The Gifts Given...
Historically, each tradition has developed many special gifts particular to themselves, e.g., liturgy, music, spirituality, to name a few. A process of offering and sharing them will enrich the ministry of the whole Body of Christ.
1. To Pray for...
Each bishop pledges to pray for each other by name daily and encourages local pastors to pray for their neighboring colleagues bv name as well.
2. To Ask Our...
Liturgical worship often includes intercessorv praver. We encourage each congregation of our denominations to pray for the needs, aspirations and problems of each other, where traditions allow. Names, places and dates are encouraged to be included to make each prayer specific.
3. To Share Resources...
Each denomination has a wealth of spiritual traditions, e.g., mystical, liturgical, social action. Seminars and common prayer experiences are encouraged so that these gifts may be shared by all.
4. To Offer and...
To be able to offer the hospitality of each others facilities: assist in shared stewardship programs, the use of buildings, parking lots, where possible.
5. To Promote...
Each tradition offers many courses for continuing education for their people. They are encouraged to share these resources with each other, e.g., clergy conferences, conventions, campus ministries, seminary programs.
6. To Work Together...
While respecting each other's unique liturgical, sacramental, theological and spiritual traditions, we are encouraged to work together in the common mission of evangelization and social justice as essential to gospel witness.
7. To Further the...
We encourage the establishment of similar covenants at the local level.
8. To Ask Our...
As an expression of the unity we have thus far through baptism. we continue to encourage our people to worship together more often, where possible, at the local level.
9. To Continue Active...
To study diligently and discuss at local levels the various documents promulgated by international, national, and other dialogues in response to our call to full communion.
10. To Promote...
The effectiveness of this covenant relies on the bishops, clergy and other leaders of our three jurisdiction. The full support of the respective ecumenical commissions and committees is essential.
11. To Renew...
We recognize that the work of this covenant is a continuing process toward full communion. By annual renewal of this covenant we open ourselves to the on-going work of the Holy Spirit towards healing the Body of Christ.
