Abstract:
Foundationalism criticizes the "relativism" of postmodernity which deconstructs absolute and
objective totalitarian truth claims. Although most postmodern scholars deny advocating relativism,
they do acknowledge that plurality features significantly in postmodern thinking. Plurality and
diversity are important to the theological discourse tool, because the church claims to be catholic
and ecumenical. In a postmodern context people who do not necessarily affiliate with the
institutional church may nevertheless regard themselves as Christians. The article supports a public
theological discourse and aims to provide a framework for reflection on unity and diversity in
postmodern faith communities. Public practical theology includes the public as one of its audiences.
After a brief overview of the phenomenon of postmodernity, the article explores the role of
plurality in ecclesiology. It reflects on the challenge of facilitating a dialogue between members
of churches and those who regard themselves as spiritual in the secularized context of a "churchless
Christianity". The purpose of the article is to contribute to the ecumenism and the catholicity of
the church.
