WCC News: WCC inspires “Theology of Work” discussion for churches in Malaysia

World Council of Churches (WCC) programme director for Public Witness and Diakonia Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata delved into the heart of “Theology of Work” in a keynote address during the opening of the New International Financial and Economic Architecture (NIFEA) Consultation on Labour, being hosted 21-23 August by the National Council of Churches in Malaysia. WCC programme director for Public Witness and Diakonia Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata (center) with members of the National Council of Churches in Malaysia. 22 August 2023 Mtata's speech shed light on pressing global challenges, beginning with the tragic plight of thousands of young lives lost in the Mediterranean Sea while seeking employment and livelihood opportunities in Europe. He emphasized that the concept of “Theology of Work” must confront these contemporary dilemmas, drawing from ecumenical theological resources to shape the world’s understanding of work. NIFEA is an economic justice initiative led by the World Council of Churches, the World Communion of Reformed Churches, the Lutheran World Federation, and Council for World Mission. "Addressing the profound moral dilemma of migrants’ young lives lost in the Mediterranean Sea, and the rampant unemployment I've witnessed in my own country Zimbabwe, our theology of work must transcend words and take practical action," Mtata remarked. He stressed the importance of transforming concrete practices to uphold human dignity and advocating for policies that promote dignified work. Mtata emphasized that this theology should find its roots in scripture and shared vision for transformation. Drawing from scripture, he explored the biblical understanding of work, citing the creation stories in Genesis, where God appoints land stewards, emphasizing humans' stewardship role in caring for the earth. He also highlighted the biblical theme of fair taxation, found in both the Old and New Testaments, as a critique of labor inequalities, echoing the importance of addressing such imbalances within the theology of work. The New International Financial and Economic Architecture (NIFEA) An Economy of Life for All Now: An Ecumenical Action Plan for a New International and Financial and Economic Architecture.   See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland