I have several close friends that are Greek Orthodox. They own and operate a couple of restaurants. I regularly stop by for a meal and the chance to talk with them. We often talk about our families, sports, jobs, etc.
They are very active in their church and I am very active in mine. We often talk about the differences and similarities between the our various rites and celebrations. My friends and I recognize that we won't see reunification in our lifetimes. However, we pray for the time when I can attend services at an Orthodox church and they can attend services at a Roman Catholic church and our attendance will be recognized by our respective churches as attending Mass and receiving the Eucharist.
A few week ago, a very critical meeting was held in Ravenna, Italy. http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0706519.htm Orthodox and Roman Catholic leaders went so far as to discuss church authority. This is a huge breakthrough in the dialogue. Authority remains the main issue in the 1000 year separation of the churches. In the past, conversations would focus on nearly everything but authority. It appears that leaders of both churches have recognized the need to finally get to "the meat of the matter".
While these events represent significant progress, it would be foolish to think that the two churches, after 1000 years of differing histories, experiences and cultural developments, can work out all of the differences in a few years. It will take time. It won't happen in our lifetime. However, reunification no longer seems to be an impossible dream.
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