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Bishop emeritus  Dr Jonas Jonson and Rev. Dr Karin Sarja in conversation on the mission history in the Church of Sweden.

Bishop emeritus Dr Jonas Jonson and Rev. Dr Karin Sarja in conversation on the role of mission today and the mission history in the Church of Sweden. Photo: Marianne Ejdersten/WCC

As the Church of Sweden celebrates 150 years of international cooperation, we acknowledge not only their significant contributions but also the gifts they have received from the wider ecumenical movement, particularly through the World Council of Churches,” said Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata, WCC programme director for Public Witness and Diakonia. This mutual exchange in the pursuit of holistic development, humanitarian response, justice, and peace must continue to be grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and our shared commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of all people.

Commemorations and celebrations during October in Uppsala will include sharing the publication 150 Years of International Engagement,” to which the WCC contributed.

In the contribution, entitled The Church of Sweden: Ecumenical Catalyst, International Agent of Peace,” WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay celebrates the churchs vital legacy and reflects on its evolving character.

The journey of the Church of Sweden over more than a century beautifully demonstrates that effective international presence and engagement for peace and justice by churches are built on ecumenical openness and commitment,” Pillay writes. “In fact, this anniversary reminds us of the important part that the Church of Sweden particularly has played, over the last century and more, in the evolution of ecumenism and international ecumenical advocacy and service.

Pillay recalls that the site of the WCC 4th Assembly—Uppsala, Sweden—came to symbolize the decisive commitment of Christian churches to action for social justice and racial reconciliation.  “We see, then, that the Church of Sweden has displayed initiative, innovation, and inspiration to the larger ecumenical movement, advancing the evolution and ambition of the ecumenical role in international affairs for the betterment of humanity,” he writes. “Looking out to the future, we see enormous challenges, specifically in the international arena.

These challenges range from climate to economic inequality, from racism to xenophobia, from responsible governance to interreligious conflict. “Ecumenical Christianity serves as an instrument of transformation, not only by renewing the churches themselves but also by lifting up the prospects for all humanity,” Pillay writes. “Thoroughly equipped by 150 years of increasing international engagement for unity, justice, and reconciliation, the Church of Sweden has become a world church.

As part of the commemorations, Mtata will share insights at a seminar organized by the Church of Sweden in Uppsala, The role of faith-based actors in sustainable development,” to be held 15 October.

The seminar, which will include members of the Swedish parliament, will explore the role of religious actors in pursuing justice and peace. 


WCC commends Church of Sweden’s engagement for peace and justice | World Council of Churches (oikoumene.org)

The Church of Sweden: Ecumenical Catalyst, International Agent of Peace | World Council of Churches (oikoumene.org)

Act Church of Sweden  (Livestreaming in Swedish, Sunday 13 October at 09:15-10:30am  in English)

Göra skillnad 2024 - möt partner och nätverka med andra engagerade (svenskakyrkan.se)