Paul Avis is Honorary Professor in the Department of Theology and Religion, Durham University, UK, and also Honorary Research Fellow in the Department of Theology and Religion, University of Exeter, UK. He has previously been General Secretary of the Church of England’s Council for Christian Unity (1998–2011) and Theological Consultant to the Anglican Communion Office (2011–12). He is a former Chaplain to HM Queen Elizabeth II (2008–17) and Canon Theologian of Exeter Cathedral, Professor and the author or editor of more than 20 books.

“This important book is both personal and profound. Personal because it draws on decades of engagement in the ecumenical vocation of the church. Profound because it penetrates to the heart of the theological task – to provide faithful witness to the reconciling God who has called a people to be one in Christ, to serve God’s reconciling purposes in the world. There is passion in these pages to stir the heart, awaken the spirit and move the will to press, with urgency, for there conciliation of the churches.”

• Preface vii1. ‘Unreal Worlds Meeting’? Illusion and Reality in Ecumenical Dialogue 12. Transcending Denominationalism 213. Contested Legacy: Vatican II after 60 Years 494. Polity and Polemics 785. Unreconciled Church – Counter-sign of the Kingdom 1066. To Heal a Wounded Church 1297. Mutual Recognition – Gateway to Reconciliation 1598. Envisioning a Reconciled and Reconciling Community 196Bibliography 239Index of Names 257