The ecumenical movement of the 20^th century had the great distinction of clearly reaffirming the need for this witness. After centuries of separation, misunderstanding, indifference and even conflict, there has been a rebirth among Christians of the realization that faith in Christ unites them, and that this faith is a force capable of overcoming all that separates them. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, with the Second Vatican Council the Catholic Church has committed herself irrevocably to travel the path of the ecumenical quest.
The differences that still exist between us must not and cannot be downplayed. True ecumenical commitment is not a search for compromise, nor does it make concessions where the Truth is concerned. It knows that divisions between Christians are contrary to the will of Christ; it knows that they are a scandal that weakens the voice of the Gospel. Its efforts are aimed not at ignoring divisions but at overcoming them.

Awareness of what is still lacking for full communion helps us to appreciate more fully what we already share. In fact, despite the misunderstandings and the many problems that still keep us from feeling fully united, important elements of holiness and truth, which belong to the one Church of Christ, even outside the visible boundaries of the Catholic Church, urge us on to full unity. It is not that outside the Catholic Church there is an ecclesial void; indeed, there are many fruits of the Spirit, such as holiness and witness to Christ—sometimes even to the shedding of blood - which evoke our admiration and gratitude.
The dialogues which have developed since the Second Vatican Council have brought a new awareness of the heritage and task common to Christians, and have produced very significant results. We have not yet of course reached the goal, but we have taken important steps forward. From being far apart and, often, adversaries—as we once were—we have grown closer and become friends. We have rediscovered Christian brotherhood. We know that our Baptism incorporates us into the one Body of Christ, in a communion that, while not yet full, is nonetheless real. We have every reason to praise the Lord and thank him.

With a profoundly grateful heart I think back to the Jubilee Year. From the ecumenical point of view, the Jubilee recorded moments that were truly prophetic and moving. For a brief moment—all too brief—we walked together. But how encouraging that short journey was, a sign of God’s providence along the remainder of the road that we must still travel.

The questions, which remain open, are not an obstacle to dialogue; rather, they ought to be seen as an incentive to frank and charitable discussion. How long until our journey comes to an end? Leaving behind distrust, we must meet, know one another better, learn to love one another, and work together fraternally as much as possible. Let us go forward together, with new enthusiasm, on the path to full unity!