Catholic Pentecostal Dialogue (1977-1982) Developing Ecumenism Studies

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Cecil M. Robeck, Jr.’s review assesses Jerry L. Sandidge’s two-volume work, *Roman Catholic/Pentecostal Dialogue (1977-1982): A Study in Developing Ecumenism*. Robeck frames Sandidge’s contribution as akin to the centuries-long, visionary construction of San Marcos Cathedral in Venice—a monumental effort laying foundational groundwork for a future, enduring vision. This vision, for the 20th century, pertains to the nascent, yet often estranged, relationship between the Ecumenical Movement and the Pentecostal/Charismatic Movement. While both are considered profound spiritual phenomena birthed by the Holy Spirit, they have historically exhibited mutual suspicion and criticism, hindering the realization of a visible Christian unity that could powerfully witness to the world, as articulated in John 17. Sandidge’s work, therefore, is posited as a crucial step towards bridging these divides. Sandidge’s study chronicles the Second Quinquennium (1977-1982) of the international dialogue between Roman Catholics and Pentecostals, a significant ecumenical initiative first announced in 1970 and initially co-chaired by David du Plessis and Fr. Kilian McDonnell. This dialogue builds upon the groundwork of the First Quinquennium (1972-1976), which was previously documented and analyzed by Arnold Bittlinger. The importance of these discussions cannot be overstated, as they involve the world’s largest Christian denomination, Roman Catholicism (over 600 million members), and the fastest-growing Christian movement, Pentecostalism (over 350 million members). Any mutual understanding forged between these two traditions is recognized as having potentially profound implications for the future trajectory of Christianity as it enters its third millennium. Jerry Sandidge is exceptionally qualified for this analytical task. A Pentecostal minister with experience as a pastor, missionary, and educator, his academic background uniquely spans both Pentecostal institutions for his undergraduate studies and a Roman Catholic setting (Catholic University of Leuven) for his doctoral work. Furthermore, his direct involvement in various ecumenical activities, including serving on the steering committee of the very dialogue he describes, coupled with his close personal relationship with David du Plessis and access to his private correspondence, lends an unparalleled depth of insight and authenticity to his scholarship. The first volume of his work provides a meticulous historical, theological, and pastoral analysis, including a valuable summary of the First Quinquennium for non-German readers and detailed examinations of key theological topics debated during the Second Quinquennium, such as glossolalia, faith and experience, healing, hermeneutics, the church as a worshipping community, traditions, the role of Mary, and ministry. Sandidge also notes the evolution in the dialogue’s methodology, moving from an initial abundance of shorter papers to a more focused “one subject per year” approach by the later stages. The review highly commends Sandidge’s objectivity, acknowledging the personal commitment and potential strain such a comprehensive study of ecumenical dialogue can entail. The book further extends its scope by including a brief section on the inception of the Third Quinquennium (1985-1989) and concludes with thoughtful reflections on Christian unity, the church’s mission, charismatic renewal, and the World Council of Churches. Significantly, the work is presented in two volumes: the first dedicated to narrative and assessment, and the second serving as a veritable “goldmine” of primary source material. This second volume includes a list of all dialogue participants with biographical sketches, a schedule of events, the actual papers used for discussion, and the agreed-upon accounts and press releases from each year. While acknowledging some “unevenness in the quality and sophistication” of the original papers, the reviewer correctly interprets this as an authentic representation of the dialogue’s inclusive nature, encompassing perspectives from trained theologians, ecclesiastical leaders, pastors, and interested laypersons. Ultimately, Robeck concludes that Sandidge’s detailed study, though a singular contribution, lays essential groundwork for a future where visible Christian unity between Roman Catholics and Pentecostals might eventually manifest, making it a profoundly significant work in the field of developing ecumenism.