What are the expectations about the upcoming assembly in Indonesia?
Bueno de Faria: Our last assembly in Sweden in 2018 marked a turning point for the alliance, highlighting our faith identity, our engagement with diverse stakeholders beyond the ecumenical movement, and the critical importance of implementing tangible gender equality initiatives in our work. In Indonesia, under the theme “Hope in Action, Together for Justice,” we aim to unite our members to address the challenges posed by political fundamentalism, hate speeches, and polarization, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive society.
How will the assembly tackle the future work of the alliance in the areas of humanitarian aid, development, and advocacy?
Bueno de Faria: The assembly aims to allocate time for members to engage in meaningful conversations on pressing global issues. These discussions will delve into our collective identity and the factors that contribute to our strength as ACT. The primary focus will be on the necessity of collaboration through national and regional forums to address racism and decolonization, and to promote diversity, equality, and inclusion. Additionally, we will explore practical strategies to combat racism and decolonization, as well as discuss approaches to foster dialogue and enhance youth engagement within the alliance. Furthermore, we will address topics related to rights-based advocacy, prolonged emergencies, and nexus programming.
What is the impact that ecumenical cooperation can bring to a world marked by conflicts, fragmentation, wars, fundamentalisms, climate emergency, and gender injustices?
Bueno de Faria: Ecumenical cooperation is paramount to counter fragmentation and fundamentalisms (religious, economic, and political), and to foster peace while addressing inequalities. If our religious values of solidarity, compassion, inclusion, and justice remain unexposed or under-lived, we risk creating divisions within the ecumenical movement and society as a whole. In times when these values are under attack, it is crucial that faith-based organizations unite to provide a comprehensive approach to our collaborative efforts. We cannot engage in discussions about theological narratives while people suffer or die in need of our diaconal and spiritual support. Ecumenical cooperation offers a comprehensive response to these challenges and can be liberating.