Practicing Christian Unity (Classic Reprint)

This book focuses on the idea of Christian unity as extending beyond the walls of the church itself. The author traces the development of interfaith movements throughout the United States. The author asserts that the first interdenominational movements primarily focused on engaging in charitable work and outreach, such as fighting poverty, homelessness, addiction, and general misfortune. Over time, this work exposed the many ways in which religious institutions were in competition with one another, sometimes hindering their ability to effectively serve their communities. In the early 20th century, this understanding evolved and resulted in more formally organized and intentional efforts to unite church groups and coordinate their work. Such efforts sought to create more efficient and widespread outreach through pooling resources and sharing administrative tasks. Interfaith cooperation in these areas sought to maximize the efficacy of all of their charitable efforts through coordination, cooperation, and resource sharing. By studying the origins, techniques, and evolution of these efforts, this book speaks to the power of unification, cooperation, and the benefits of working together in common cause.