WCC FEATURE: WCC Gender Justice Reference Group meets in Zimbabwe

The World Council of Churches (WCC) Gender Justice Reference Group met in Harare, Zimbabwe from 7-12 December, marking its first in-person gathering. Hosted by the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, the meeting brought together church leaders, theologians, and gender justice advocates to reflect on the critical importance of gender justice in the life and mission of the church. On December 10th, the Gender Reference Group visited Musasa during the Harare Pilgrimage, learning about the Women’s Shelters Support Program Photo: Gloria Charles/WCC 19 December 2024 Ten participants from Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, Pacific, North America, Asia, and the Middle East explored the theme from the Apostle Paul’s reminder in 1 Corinthians 12:26–27, that “if one part suffers, every part suffers with it.” Co-convenor Tandi Soko-De Jong, from the Protestant Church in the Netherlands, shared her reflections on how the group’s work is both new and deeply rooted in the foundations laid by those who came before. “We stand on the shoulders of giants,” she said. “Our conversations, reflections, and contributions are shaped by our unique experiences, expertise, and callings.” She also noted the efforts of those who have long fought for gender justice—both well-known figures and those who remain unsung beyond their homes, churches, or communities. “Some are no longer with us, but their legacy endures,” she said. “It is a true joy to build upon what has already been established, and a privilege to contribute new ideas, shaped by each of our perspectives and talents as members of this reference group.” Have courage Those gathered explored how “the New Testament challenges us to recognize that the flourishing of the church requires full participation and inclusion of women and men. When one gender is marginalized or excluded, the entire community is weakened, much like a body that cannot function properly when even one part is in pain,” according to a draft report from the group. Reflecting on the uniqueness of the gathering, co-convenor Prof. Rastko Jovic of the Serbian Orthodox Church encouraged the reference group’s work. "What I want to share is this: have courage,” said Jovic. “There will be times when it seems like nothing is changing, but we must remain patient and work step by step.” It’s also essential to be open and truly listen to one another as women and men, added Jovic. “Progress comes when we journey together, not when we rush ahead,” said Jovic. “These days we’ve spent together have shown the strength of unity and understanding through ecumenical cooperation.” The gathering found that the pursuit of gender justice is not an optional endeavor but an essential part of a shared journey toward the fulfillment of God’s will for the world. Participants explored how it is a theological imperative rooted in the Gospel's call to build a just, inclusive community where women and men reflect the fullness of God's image. The reference group shared a vision of gender justice that demands a shared commitment to dismantle barriers that perpetuate inequality and division, both within and beyond the church. Grounded in Christ’s example of kenosis—or self-emptying love—true gender justice is not about dominance or division but about mutual enrichment and shared purpose. Amplifying voices Women make up the majority in churches, yet their contributions are often overlooked, said Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata, WCC programme director of Public Witness and Diakonia. “There is no substitute for in-depth studies,” he said. “We must prioritize and share research whether on theology, women’s health, or their leadership roles to empower women and amplify their voices.” Solidarity across diverse contexts is crucial for advancing women’s economic and educational empowerment, Mtata added. “Representation matters, and gender justice work demands collaboration, not only within the church but also with wider society,” he said. The group affirmed the 2025 strategic plans for Just Community of Women and Men and prepared recommendations for WCC governance and programme, as well as theological education, advocacy and communications. Rev. Nicole Ashwood, WCC programme executive for Just Community of Women and Men, shared the history of the group’s creation. “At the WCC 11th Assembly in Karlsruhe, our church members agreed to transition from an advisory group to establishing the Gender Justice Reference Group,” she said. “This crucial step has strengthened our influence in decision-making and reinforced our responsibility to ensure the wellbeing of both women and men.” Gender justice remains integral to every aspect of the World Council of Churches' work, Ashwood added. “Let us continue to uplift the role of women across all areas of our mission,” she said. “Failing to equip women risks undermining the foundation of sustainability and inclusivity within our communities.” Photo gallery Learn more about the WCC work on Just Community of Women and Men On December 10th, the Gender Reference Group participated in Harare Pilgrimage visits. Photo: Gloria Charles/WCC

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 Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland