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Student Niza Mungabo, from the Republic of Zambia, Bethel Baptist Church, gained insight into the various ways individuals and individual churches make up the WCC, and also enjoyed seeing the chapel and different elements donated by different countries and churches at the Ecumenical Centre. “It makes me look forward to a time when we, as students, will be allowed to see a space of profound history and ecumenical significance,” said Mungabo.
Student Avi Girschweiler, from the Protestant Church of Switzerland, was glad for the opportunity to visit the place where many strands of the worldwide ecumenical movement come together.
“It was interesting hearing about the way the WCC tries to engage important stakeholders in the multiple crises we face today,” said Girschweiler. “This touches on something I struggle with continually: How do we find a prophetic voice as Christians worldwide? And how can we manage to make a difference?”
Girschweiler also appreciates how the WCC can foster friendships—and a sense of resilience as well.
“Our visit took place on a September day that was far too warm. The consequences of a hot and dry summer could be felt in the garden, which did not seem as lush as it is supposed to be during that season. For me, this was a reminder that we are living in an immediate climate crisis,” said Girschweiler. “In contrast, it was refreshing to see the staff WCC handling its own ‘housing crisis’ in creative ways, making conference rooms into chapels as they wait for their return to the original building.”
