Sketch of a dialogue

This article proposes a theological dialogue between an Orthodox author and Father Louis Bouyer, a Catholic theologian, based on a text by the latter on the relationship between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. The approach is that of a critical and constructive response, engaging in a discussion of the doctrinal convergences and divergences between the two traditions. The main idea is that the opposition between the Christian East and West is largely artificial, with both traditions sharing common roots while diverging on specific dogmatic points. The article successively examines the theology of the cross and resurrection, monastic spirituality, Mariology — notably the dogma of the Immaculate Conception —, Trinitarian theology and the Filioque, as well as the ecclesiological structure of the Church. The theological contribution lies in demonstrating that these divergences cannot be reduced to mere historical accidents, but involve fundamental doctrinal choices that ecumenical dialogue must confront with clear-sightedness.