All rights reservedPizzey, Antonia2025-10-1620222024-01-29978019284510810.1093/oso/9780192845108.003.0037https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14802/1800Receptive Ecumenism has been described as ‘a virtuous virus’, intentionally designed to be adaptable to the needs of specific contexts. Therefore, a standardized approach is neither possible nor desirable. Yet, all applications of Receptive Ecumenism require engaging with processes of discernment. The development of pathways or guidelines for exploring receptive ecumenical discernment is, therefore, an important issue. This chapter explores Receptive Ecumenism’s distinctive emphasis on the virtues as a pathway for its process of discernment directed towards ecclesial reform. It is argued that the virtues of love, hospitality, humility, and hope, in particular, can act as guidelines for approaching receptive ecumenical discernment.spiritual ecumenismvirtueshospitalitydiscernmentThomas AquinasReceptive EcumenismBook chapterControlledPUB0201094835