WCC NEWS: Asian institute concludes after exploring “Hope for Liberation Amidst the Groaning of Creation”

Twenty-three young ecumenists were called to embody hope and unity during the month-long Asian Ecumenical Institute 2026 in Chiang Mai, an annual ecumenical formation programme organised by the Christian Conference of Asia.  Photo: Christian Conference of Asia 05 August 2026 Christian Conference of Asia general secretary Rev. Jung Eun Grace Moon delivered a farewell address. “The future of the ecumenical movement in Asia depends not on institutions alone, but on people like you—formed, committed, and courageous—who are willing to embody unity in fragmented contexts and hope in times of despair,” Moon said. The institute, held from 5-31 July, explored the theme, “Hope for Liberation Amidst the Groaning of Creation.”  Arceli P. Bile, who organized the institute, expressed appreciation to the cohort for their active participation and commitment to listening, critical reflection, sharing insights, and learning from one another throughout the programme. “As you return to your families, local churches, and communities, may you continue to shine the light that God has entrusted to you,” she said. “May you be the salt of the earth, bringing the flavour of hope, compassion, and justice to those who need it most.” She urged students to continue to share the hope of liberation amid the groaning of creation. “And whenever one of us feels weary or loses hope, may we encourage one another, reminding each other that God’s hope, justice, and love continue to sustain us,” she said. Over the four-week programme, participants engaged critically with issues at the forefront of church and society through lectures, workshops, group discussions, and presentations. They learned from theologians, biblical scholars, ecumenical leaders, and practitioners, while also taking part in exposure visits and interfaith dialogues that broadened their perspectives beyond the classroom. 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 356 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