ABSTRACT

This chapter examines Davidson’s role in the development of the ecumenical movement after 1918. The carnage of the First World War fostered reflection across the churches about how such a catastrophe could be avoided in the future. The Lambeth Appeal of 1920 reflected a growing desire within the Church of England to act as a focus for ecumenical developments. Archbishop Davidson was ready to support efforts to improve relations with other churches. He authorised discussions with representatives of the Roman Catholic churches during the Malines Conversations and supported initiatives to build closer relations with the Churches of the East. The Archbishop was also ready to approve conversations to build better relations with the Nonconformist churches. Davidson nevertheless recognised that any serious attempt to improve relations between the churches was likely to be the work of decades rather than years. He also recognised that ecumenical initiatives could create tension within the Church of England.