What criteria are used to determine whether a council is considered ecumenical?

A council is considered ecumenical primarily based on its participation of bishops from diverse Christian communities, reflecting a broader representation of the universal Church. This inclusivity is vital because ecumenical councils aim to address doctrines, practices, and issues that affect a wide spectrum of Christians, fostering unity and consensus. When bishops from various traditions convene, their collective discussions and decisions are intended to carry weight across the entire Christian community, making the outcomes more representative and authoritative.

The presence of the Pope, while significant in many councils, is not the sole determining factor for ecumenicity; some councils may have had varying degrees of papal involvement. Additionally, approval of every doctrine by the congregation does not define a council's ecumenical status, as ecumenical councils focus on theological discussion rather than congregational voting. Lastly, the length of time a council is in session does not contribute to its ecumenical classification, as councils can vary greatly in duration regardless of their significance or impact. Thus, the emphasis on diverse participation underscores the need for a broad consensus in the pursuit of unity in the Christian faith.