A Call for Hospitality

Abstract

Abstract During the past decade, global conferences on Receptive Ecumenism have directed ecumenists’ attention to the importance of hospitality for the flourishing of Receptive Ecumenism; this has been discussed conceptually, but not yet with respect to practice. In order to explore a practical example of hospitality within Receptive Ecumenism, I draw on a case study concerning a particular group of Catholic women in the Midlands, U.K. who organize small-scale, women-only Receptive Ecumenism conferences at grass roots. Through reflecting theologically upon their practices, important learning arises, which shapes the nature of hospitality required for Receptive Ecumenism. Further to this, against the backdrop of Christ’s radical hospitality, a prophetic call unfolds, which challenges the churches’ own hospitality to women and their reception of women’s gifts.