April 10, 2026
(Political Theology Network) — In the United States, conversations between Calvinists and Catholics generally follow a similar pattern. They typically focus on doctrinal disagreements, such as baptism, the Eucharist/Lord’s Supper, and the nature of the Church. These are crucially important topics that certainly require serious and sustained discussion. The doctrinal disagreements that have left deep historical marks of bitter division, and that still profoundly affect millions of adherents today, cannot simply be set aside through ecumenical optimism or mere emotional sentiment. It is therefore no wonder that conversations between Catholics and Calvinists have continued for quite some time, even after the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965)
However, the current political situation forces us to reflect on another issue that needs to be thought about seriously. It is no longer enough nor urgent to merely ask Catholics and Calvinists to talk about their doctrinal disagreement. What they need to discuss more seriously is how they can bring their theological resources and traditions to the table to address together the rise of authoritarianisms that growingly use Christian language.
In such a setting, ecumenism cannot remain confined to doctrinal comparison. It must also become an ethical task.
Read Perdian’s full article here.