News
"The establishment of this reference group comes at a pivotal time when the world faces numerous crises—from climate change to poverty and conflict," said Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata, WCC programme director for Public Witness and Diakonia. "This meeting will enable us to develop a coordinated and innovative response, drawing on the rich traditions of ecumenical diakonia to serve humanity more effectively and collaboratively."
The Ecumenical Diakonia Reference Group was formed in response to the WCC’s 11th Assembly in Karlsruhe in 2022, which affirmed diakonia as a critical expression of unity and service. This gathering in Yerevan will aim to strengthen collaboration between the WCC, ACT Alliance, national and regional ecumenical organizations, and local churches.
Participants will discuss strategies to address the interconnected crises of climate change, war, and poverty while contributing to the global efforts outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.
"By fostering equitable partnerships and greater cooperation among churches and ecumenical organizations, we can respond more effectively to the needs of our world and demonstrate the unity of the church through service," said Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development.
The meeting will include biblio-theological reflections, panel discussions on eco-diakonia and decolonising diakonia, and group planning sessions to set a three-year action plan for 2024–2026. A visit to a local diakonia project in Armenia will also provide practical insights for participants.
Learn more about the work of the WCC on Diakonia and Ecumenical Solidarity
