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After participating in a morning prayer, the delegation received an introduction to the mandate, purpose, and work of the WCC. The Church of Sweden also offered an update on current issues within the church.
In addition to meeting with the WCC Staff Leadership Group, the Church of Sweden delegation received a brief introduction to the history of the ecumenical movement.
The group also traveled to the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey.
Thematic spaces and dialogues were set up between the Church of Sweden, WCC, Lutheran World Federation, and ACT Alliance. They discussed the ecumenical movement and its commitment and engagement on climate justice, as well as the increasing challenges presented by polarisation, populism, protectionism, and post-truth.
Discussions centered on the external and internal challenges for churches, as well as responsibilities and possibilities in this current landscape.
The delegation also received a brief information session on the Church of Sweden parish in Switzerland.
Asp expressed appreciation for the visit and for meeting the WCC leadership.
“I recognize the importance of being a member of the WCC, given the possibility to listen to and learn from other members of the fellowship and the experiences in WCC,” she said. “Being a member of WCC is crucial for the identity of the Church of Sweden. I have especially recognized the engagement of WCC in working for peace and reconciliation as well the importance of involving young persons in the ecumenical movement.”
WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay acknowledged the Church of Sweden’s significant role in the ecumenical movement since the Universal Christian Conference on Life and Work in Stockholm in 1925, and the church’s strong support for the entire ecumenical movement.
“The WCC is very grateful for the Church of Sweden and its ongoing engagement in the ecumenical movement in so many ways,” he said. “This leadership meeting helped to strengthen and reinforce our collaboration, both spiritually and programmatically, as we defined our common responsibilities for unity, reconciliation, and peace.”
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Visit of the Church of Sweden General Secretary, Ms Camilla Asp and of Rev. Dr Karin Sarja Secretary of the Church, Director of the Department of Church and Society, Mr Erik Lysén, Director of International Affairs and, Very Rev. Peter Lindvall, Director of Ecumenical relations.
Grégoire de Fombelle/WCC
The Church of Sweden delegation, led by its general secretary Camilla Asp, also included Rev. Dr Karin Sarja, secretary of the Church, and director of the Department of Church and Society; Erik Lysén, director of International Affairs; and Very Rev. Peter Lindvall, director of Ecumenical Relations.
Photo gallery World Council of Churches
