Prime Highlights-
- WCC general secretary Jerry Pillay sent an uplifting message to the Ecumenical Education and Formation Commission as its meeting opened at Bossey.
- Pillay encouraged commissioners to apply the Nicene Creed faith in every context and embrace ecumenical learning with open hearts and minds.
Key Facts-
- The commission meets October 5 to 9 under the theme Ecumenical Formation as Ethos and as Programme.
- Members will assess ongoing initiatives, examine the commission’s mandate and set directions for future work.
Background-
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), has sent a special message to the Ecumenical Education and Formation Commission as its twice-yearly meeting begins at the WCC Ecumenical Institute at Bossey. He titled the note “The Spirit of Ecumenical Learning.”
Pillay thanked commissioners for making long journeys to review ecumenical education around the world and push its work forward. He pointed to last year’s gathering in Egypt, which marked 1700 years since the Nicene Creed, and said it sharpened the church’s sense of purpose. In his view, that ancient faith should be applied thoughtfully in every setting so that the world’s deepest spiritual challenges can be met.
Ecumenical learning, he said, lifts people beyond narrow viewpoints and prepares them to serve with open hearts and minds, wherever they are. He added that seeking God’s will in a time of change helps the church honor God and respond to present needs. He closed by offering his hopes and prayers to the commissioners.
The commission meets from October 5 to 9 under the theme “Ecumenical Formation as Ethos and as Programme.” Over the week, members will reflect on their work, assess ongoing projects and plan ahead. They will also examine the commission’s mandate and priorities and set direction for its next phase.
