For the past sixteen years, Cardinal Nichols has been one of the six CTE Presidents, church leaders who represent different Christian traditions amongst the (now more than 50) member churches. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to the way that the Presidents personally model the commitment to unity, in faith and in action, which is the aim of all ecumenical work. Participating in many CTE events, he is notable for his insights into the role of Christians in society as well as his ecumenical reflections. He is also characteristically respectful in his style, always choosing what he says carefully and with kindness, and this has contributed to the continuation of good and developing ecumenical relations both locally and nationally.
I remember a day back in 2009, during the CTE Forum event that year. He and Archbishop Rowan Williams were each giving a Bible study on 1 Cor 1:10-31. They agreed that our relationship with Christ isn’t about power or influence, but about imitating his self-emptying and his obedience. Sometimes we even have to let go of our idea of who we are, because ultimately we have to be re-made in the image of Christ.
More recently, I remember Cardinal Vincent and Archbishop Justin Welby reflecting on the theme of Walking Together on the Way, the title of a document which was the fruit of international Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue. This was at a two-day gathering of the bishops of our two churches, which takes place roughly every two years. This was also a fitting theme to reflect our experience of ecumenism – walking together on a road, committed to each other and persevering in the journey, even though the end is not yet in sight.
These are just two examples of many occasions when Cardinal Nichols contributed to the work of Christian unity. Often, these would be relatively low-key but valuable. On other occasions, he had a role in high-profile events, such at the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II – the first time in centuries that a Catholic cardinal participated in a royal funeral in this country. His prayer emphasised mutual honour, respect, and justice, symbolising a deepening of ecumenical ties. Similarly, his participation in the Coronation of King Charles III reinforced the perception of the Catholic Church as fully engaged in the shared civic and spiritual life of the nation.
The Cardinal’s personal style has made all these occasions no mere formality. He has always been characteristically warm and respectful of pastors and leaders of other Churches, showing a genuine interest in their work and expressing his desire to walk together.
Photo: CTE Presidents and General Secretary at the Coronation of King Charles III. From L to R Archbishop Nikitas, Rev Canon Helen Cameron, Bishop Mike Royal, Archbishop Angaelos, Cardinal Vincent Nichols. Credit Churches Together in England.