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A combination of in-depth discussions, and an overview of WCC assembly roles and responsibilities, the Ecumenical Youth Gathering is founded on the realization that the long-term viability of the ecumenical movement depends largely on the WCC and its member churches’ ability to draw and engage the young generation in ecumenical work.
“The Ecumenical Youth Gathering will be an exciting opportunity to meet and network with international and local youth,” said Nirmala Gurung, a youth representative at World Young Women's Christian Association.
Olivia Baro, ecumenical youth enabler for the Pacific Conference of Churches, said: “The Ecumenical Youth Gathering will be a platform that allows young people to have their voices heard as well as engage with faith leaders to ensure the outcome of the assembly highlights and addresses our concerns.”
Larissa Aguiar Garcia, of the Methodist Church in Brazil and a member of the WCC ECHOS Youth Commission added that "the gathering will open space for young people to exchange knowledge, experiences and stories of our backgrounds—from our regions, faith expressions and work done.”
Joy Eva Bohol, WCC programme executive for youth engagement in the ecumenical movement, explained that the Ecumenical Youth Gathering stands on the shoulders of youth gatherings throughout WCC history. “The culmination of the Ecumenical International Youth Day 2022, led by and with the Indigenous Peoples youth network, will also be held in the Ecumenical Youth Gathering, inviting young people both in-person and online to participate in the discussion and envisioning the future of the ecumenical movement together. An online engagement of young people from all over the world is planned to include more diverse voices in the event.”
