May 8, 2002

"ANGLICAN—ROMAN CATHOLIC RELATIONS" JOINT LECTURE MAY 20

 LA CROSSE, Wis.-The state of Anglican (Episcopal) and Roman Catholic relations during the past five centuries will be the subject of a joint lecture by Fr. Bernard McGarty and Bishop William Wantland Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at Viterbo University’s Fine Arts Center Main Theatre.

 The presentation which is free and open to the public will feature multimedia.

 McGarty is Viterbo’s Visiting Scholar for Ecumenical Studies and in his previous presentations he has discussed Catholic relations with the jewish, Lutheran and Orthodox churches.  My than 1,000 individuals attended his most recent lecture on the history of Islam.  He earned his doctorate in theology from the Angelicum University in Rome and is Viterbo’s Visiting Professor in Ecumenical Studies.

 Joining McGarty is Wantland, the retired bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Eau Claire and the fifth bishop of Navajoland of Cherokee ancestry who now resides in Seminole, Okla.

 the two will review the historic and turbulent relations between England and Rome-Canterbury and the Vatican.  The schism eventually lead to the separation of the English Church from Papal authority during the reign of King Henry VIII.

Many years later, attempts at dialogue and reconciliation were started which culminated in several decrees from the Vatican.  Later a commission was established between the Anglican and Catholic  churches which resulted in the issuance of joint statements in areas of agreement.

 "The presentation will clarify some issues that separate and unify the two churches," McGarty said.  "There have been a number of historic studies which has advanced relations between the Anglicans and Catholics, however, there are obstacles still being addressed."  McGarty and Wantland will alternate in presentation of material during the 55-minute lecture.  A reception will follow with an opportunity for anyone to visit with the presenters.