World Council of Churches opens applications for 2025 Stewards Programme

The World Council of Churches (WCC) invites young people from across the globe to apply for the 2025 Stewards Programme, scheduled to take place from 14-26 June 2025.

This exciting programme offers a unique opportunity for youth ages 18-30 to engage with the global ecumenical movement and actively contribute to the work of the WCC. The deadline for applications is 30 November 2024.

World Council of Churches opens applications for 2025 Stewards Programme | World Council of Churches (oikoumene.org)

Participants in the Stewards Programme will be part of a diverse and dynamic community of young Christians from different backgrounds, churches, and regions. Together, they will bring their faith, experiences, and vision to create an enriching ecumenical experience of fellowship and collaboration. The programme will be conducted in English, the working language for the event.

Rich ecumenical experience

The 2025 Stewards Programme includes a comprehensive onsite formation in Johannesburg, South Africa. Stewards will arrive four days prior to the WCC central committee meeting and engage in workshops, discussions, and activities that explore the history, values, and mission of the ecumenical movement. This learning period prepares participants to fully understand their role and make meaningful contributions during the meeting.

The programme is designed to equip young people with the tools to carry forward their ecumenical insights into their local churches and communities, fostering unity and action worldwide.

Empowering the next generation

Abigayle Bolado, programme executive for the WCC’s Young People in the Ecumenical Movement programme, highlighted the longstanding impact of the Stewards Programme on the ecumenical movement. “The Stewards Programme has played a crucial role in shaping the active participation and involvement of young people in the ecumenical movement over the years. I've had the privilege of hearing from numerous individuals who were once part of the Stewards Programme and are now assuming leadership roles in different local and global ecumenical platforms. Each of them has emphasized how the Stewards Programme significantly influenced their interest in active participation in the movement,” Bolado reflected.

She continued, “It’s not just about engaging in the technical and logistical aspects; it is about embracing broader opportunities to partake in discussions and important conversations within the ecumenical movement. I am eagerly anticipating the involvement of young stewards in the central committee of 2025 and the continued expansion of the ecumenical platform for, and with, the youth!”

Call to service in Christ’s love

The Stewards’ Programme is more than 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 moved by Christ’s love, on a Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity.

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

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

03/10/2024

30/11/2024