William Temple and Church Unity

"This important book adds a new dimension to our knowledge of Archbishop William Temple, the dominant figure in twentieth century global Anglicanism. It also makes an invaluable contribution to the wider study of ecumenism."(Matthew Grimley, Mark Reynolds Tutor in History, Merton College, University of Oxford, UK) "In this rich and highly readable assessment, Ed Loane opens up the reputation one of the most formidable Anglican church leaders of the twentieth century. A colossus in the history of modern ecumenism and in social theology, at his death after just two years at Canterbury, William Temple was mourned as the lost leader who could have transformed the post-war destinies of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. Yet as Loane shows, Temple's vision of the Church aspired to a creative and dynamic unity often at odds with the complex and divided nature of the Anglican churches. For all its attractiveness, this vision failed to achieve a practical understanding that would have helped protect Temple's legacy in the turbulent era of decolonization." (Jeremy Morris, Master of Trinity College, Cambridge University, UK)

This book evaluates William Temple’s theology and his pursuit of church unity. Through detailed analysis of primary sources, this study sheds light on several behind-the-scenes conflicts Temple experienced as he worked toward church unity.This book evaluates William Temple’s theology and his pursuit of church unity. It exposes a number of paradoxes and conflicts that have generally gone under-appreciated in assessments of Temple. 
William Temple was one of the most outstanding leaders of the early ecumenical movement. In many ways his ecumenical efforts provided a paradigm others have looked to and followed. Through detailed analysis of primary sources, this study sheds light on several behind-the-scenes conflicts Temple experienced as he worked toward church unity. Edward Loane explores the foundation of Temple’s work by analyzing the philosophy and theology that underpinned and fueled it. The book also exposes the tensions between Temple’s denominational allegiance and his ecumenical convictions—a tension that, in some ways, undermined his work for reunion. This book reveals issues that contemporary Christians need to grapple with as they seek to further church unity.