Genetics, new biotechnologies and the ministry of the church

Photo: Paul C. Crowson

Some fifty church representatives, scientists, youth, indigenous people, people with disabilities and theologians are expected at a global consultation on genetics and new biotechnologies in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 2-6 December. Ethical and moral issues related to genetics and new biotechnologies facing the church and the ecumenical movement will be approached both from a global perspective and through an inventory of issues from different regions.

Issues such as the aggressive promotion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture, the hybridization of human and animal cells for basic research, the use of genetics for surveillance, efforts to enhance human performance through genetic engineering along with other technologies, will be addressed from a theological perspective.

After examining how human rights legislation and conventions address these issues, participants will discuss priorities for a strategic faith-based response, and clarify personal and organizational commitments. The communication platform offered through this event fosters the creation of a network of concerned people in the churches and ecumenical partner organizations.

The event is organized by the World Council of Churches (WCC) in collaboration with the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the National Council of Churches USA (NCCUSA) and the Canadian Council of Churches (CCC). The CCC and the NCCUSA strongly contributed to make the emerging applications of life sciences an ecumenical concern through an international consultation they organized in 2006 and which created momentum for a WCC project on faith, science and technology.

Download the programme of the consultation (pdf)
 

Download an abstract of the consultation (pdf)
 

More information on the WCC project on faith, science and technology