Going beyond classical theoretical approaches, Intermarriage throughout History provides a rich and unique collection of twenty-five essays which shed light on various models of family formation through non-homogamic marriage, from an historical and multi-disciplinary perspective. The volume originated from an international conference held at Babes-Bolyai University of Cluj, Romania, in early summer 2013, with a large international participation drawn mostly from Europe, Russia, North and South America. The book also has its roots in the long academic tradition of family and demographic historical and ethnographic studies in Transylvania, where scholars have been particularly active in these fields during recent decades at the international level. Given the strong pressures towards endogamy, people in the past who had a ‘mixed’ marriage deserve researchers’ full attention. How did they overcome the obstacles put in their path by church, family, state and community? Can scholars disclose the reasons for their remarkable choice of partner? And what were the implications of their mixed marriage for their daily lives and those of their children? Mixed marriages offer a window on the tensions between societal norms and social control on the one hand, and individual variation and individual choice, or ‘agency’, on the other.

This historical dictionary covers the major trends in the 20th century ecumenical movement until today. It deals with developments in the realms of church unity, mission and evangelism, laity, women in church and society, and many other ecumenical subjects. It also covers many programs and activities of the World Council of Churches since its inception in 1948. The longer articles survey important theological themes while short articles provide quick reference on a precise question. The bibliography is not exhaustive-some 50,000 titles have been published since the beginning of this century-but very helpful for major bibliographical information. The dictionary is particularly strong in American subjects and includes a great number of ecuminical personalities which cannot be found in other reference works. This publication is not only an indispensible tool of research for university and seminary libraries but also for individual persons belonging to whatever Christian church who are interested in knowing more about reflections, relations, and activities in the several regions of the ecumenical world. A helpful description of the most important ecumenical assemblies and conferences is provided. To take stock of the past, to interpret the present, and to look forward into the third millenium of Christian existence are exciting and challenging enterprises.