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"We are living in very difficult times. We are under enormous pressure, facing the realities of so many experiences, saddled with wars, with conflicts, with ethnic violence, and gender violence,” he said. “And in these difficult times, we cannot work independently of each other, but we have to collaborate and work together, especially if we share the common vision, if we are in the same interest of creating a world that God has designed for us.”
Specialized ministries are specialized diaconal/sectoral ministries (or departments) within WCC member churches, organizations, churches, and church-related organizations, or mission organizations, working in the area of development, relief, mission, and advocacy.
William Postma, from Alongside Hope (Anglican Church of Canada) shared a reflection at the morning prayer that opened the day. He focused on the biblical passage of the road to Emmaus.
“In this passage from Scripture, we are reminded of so much. That when we walk alongside one another, we are reminded that we too are part of a bigger story, in God’s Kingdom of which the singing birds are also a part,” he said. “We are strengthened and encouraged when we share in fellowship – in-person fellowship!”
"We arrive here, as an Easter people, in this generation in this year, 2025, that holds significant ecumenical anniversaries. Much of the world celebrated Palm Sunday, the Holy Week, Easter just last Sunday, together. What a beautiful word, together,” he said.
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Photo:
Gloria Charles/WCC
On the first day of the meeting, the group had the chance to hear presentations on WCC finance; the highlights of the "Ecumenical Year 2025,” which, among others, includes commemorations of the 1700th anniversary of the first Ecumenical Council at Nicaea, the 6th World Conference on Faith and Order, and 100 years since the beginning of the Life and Work movement; and the Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity.
Antti Laine, from Finn Church Aid, who represents the specialized ministries in the reference group of the Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity, shared an overview of the work undertaken so far.
“The reference group is in a unique position to deepen the expression of the pilgrimage through the work of the WCC commissions as all the moderators are also members of the group,” he said. “In its first in-person meeting in Sri Lanka, the group worked on an invitation to member churches and ecumenical partners to engage them in the pilgrimage and on a pilgrimage toolkit. It was an enriching experience to encounter with local Christians and people of other faith traditions who shared their stories, often very touching ones.”
The agenda of the first day also included "programme hubs,” a space for participants to discuss commitments, challenges, and potential areas for collaboration with WCC programme staff in small groups.
Anne-Grete Larsen, from Norwegian Church Aid, valued the time together so far.
“I’ve really enjoyed listening to colleagues attending Working Together and interacting with WCC colleagues. Their questions and the WCC responses to them opened interesting new perspectives on the thematic areas,” said Larsen.
“I am filled with gratitude to the WCC programme colleagues who have spent the whole afternoon with us, having prepared and also being so open to all kinds of comments and questions from us specialized ministry colleagues,” she added.
The meeting continues on 29 April, with space for sharing reflections on shifts in geopolitical priorities and their implications.
“Pursuing Peace Together” - WCC publishes Annual Review 2024 (WCC news release, 28 April 2025)
