REGISTRATION FOR THE 2025 STEWARDS PROGRAMME OPENED BY THE WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

The World Council of Churches (WCC) invites young people from all around the world to apply for the 2025 Stewards Programme, scheduled to take place from June 14 to June 26, 2025. This exciting programme offers a remarkable opportunity for youth aged 18 to 30 to engage in the global ecumenical movement and actively contribute to WCC activities. The application deadline is November 30, 2024.

Participants in the Stewards Programme will join a diverse community of young Christians from various backgrounds, churches, and regions. Together, they will share their faith, experiences, and visions to create an enriching ecumenical experience of fellowship and collaboration. The programme will be conducted in English, which serves as the working language for the event.

In-Depth Ecumenical Experience

The 2025 Stewards Programme will include comprehensive onsite training in Johannesburg, South Africa. Stewards will arrive four days prior to the WCC central committee meeting and will participate in workshops, discussions, and activities that explore the history, values, and mission of the ecumenical movement. This learning period is designed to prepare participants to fully understand their roles and make meaningful contributions during the meeting.

The programme aims to equip young people with the tools to apply their ecumenical insights in their local churches and communities, fostering unity and action worldwide.

Empowering the Younger Generation

Abigayle Bolado, programme executive for the WCC’s Young People in the Ecumenical Movement, emphasized the long-term impact of the Stewards Programme on the ecumenical movement. “The Stewards Programme has played a crucial role in enhancing the active participation of youth in the ecumenical movement over the years. I have had the opportunity to hear from many individuals who once participated in the Stewards Programme and are now in leadership positions across various local and global ecumenical platforms. Each of them has highlighted how the Stewards Programme has influenced their interest in actively participating in this movement,” Bolado stated.

She also added, “It’s not just about the technical and logistical aspects; it’s about embracing opportunities to engage in important discussions within the ecumenical movement. I am eagerly looking forward to the involvement of young stewards in the central committee of 2025 and the continued expansion of the ecumenical platform for youth!”

A Call to Serve in Christ’s Love

The Stewards Programme is more than just a time of service; it is a response to Christ’s call to be co-workers in the ministry of reconciliation and peace-making. Young people are encouraged to bring their unique gifts, perspectives, and faith stories to this gathering, with the hope of returning to their home communities as ambassadors of the ecumenical vision: a world filled with Christ’s love, on a pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity.

The WCC seeks young people eager to bring their ecumenical experiences back to their local contexts, motivated to spread Christ’s love by “doing ecumenism” within their communities.

Interested youth are encouraged to submit applications by November 30, 2024.