Perspectief 2014-25

Perspectief 36 Communion in Taizé inauguration wholly directed toward the fullness of life in Christ. Baptism, therefore, envisages a complete profession of faith, complete incorporation in the system of salvation such as Christ willed it to be, and finally complete ingrafting in eucharistic communion.” 21 I cannot further investigate this difference in views and its consequences here. I can only signal it. A further deliberation of this topic might be helpful in the current ecumenical debate. 4.3 Conclusion Present Catholic communion ecclesiology cannot justify the practice as encountered in Taizé completely. In my reflection on the practice, I have encountered a tension concerning the concept of communio . Catholic theology does consider visible ecclesiastical communion a precondition for participating in the Eucharist, whereas Taizé rather stresses the ontological communion established by Christ and begotten by baptism. Reflecting on the situation in Taizé from the perspective of Catholic theology does provide a warning against indifferentism regarding visible disunity or acceptance of the status quo . On the other hand, the Taizé practice encourages Catholic theology to explore once more the nature of the communion granted by baptism. Thus, this practice, which is in a way authorized by the Catholic Church, challenges Catholic theology at this point. The words of praise uttered by several high authorities with regard to the ecumenical efforts of the community justify a stronger interest of Catholic theologians for the practice and ideas of the Taizé community. In my opinion, this interest can focus best on the nature of communion perceived in baptism. The unsolved problems encountered imply that, from the Catholic perspective, the Taizé practice cannot be a model for ecumenical encounter. Similar to the outcome of the previous chapter, from the perspective of Catholic theology too the Taizé practice can only be defined as exceptional. As such it is a sign, a provisional solution, an anticipation of the hoped for outcome of ecumenism: full ecclesial communion, expressed in shared worship. 21 Unitatis Redintegratio , 22.