VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 3SEPTEMBER 2000

Time for Fullness of Life for All CCA’s 11th General Assembly IN THIS ISSUE EDITORIAL

General Assembly Grand Opening 4 e have received much correspondence commending the holding of Extraordinary Assembly 5 the 11th General Assembly of the CCA in Tomohon. Many noted the Visit of Indonesian President 7 high sense of conviviality and celebration that pervaded it. Others New Office-bearers 8 referred to the new program structure adopted at the Assembly and Niles Lectures 11 Wwondered whether this was a first step towards ‘re-inventing’ CCA towards the New Presidium 14 twenty-first century. Still others marvelled at the fact that it was held in Indonesia Asia Ecumenical Course 15 at such a critical and for many such an uncertain point in the life of that country Women’s Forum 17 and how the Assembly was an expression of ‘the art of Christian solidarity’. Most Youth Forum 18 however remembered the wonderful hosting of the Assembly by the churches People’s Forum 20 and people of Tomohon and Manado, and the whole of the regency of Minahasa. Most participants were hosted and stayed in the homes of families in the CCA in Focus Tomohon and Manado area. The Assembly opened with opening worship and Conference of Theological Students 25 ceremonies at the Manado Sports Stadium, which was filled to capacity by over Climate Change in Asia Consultation 28 10,000 people. Church bells all over the city of Manado tolled as the governor of Gender Awareness Workshop 29 North Sulawesi announced the opening. Church congregations supplied our food Asia Scene in great abundance. Hundreds of people from all over the Tomohon area came Deep Concerns of Member Councils 30 to visit the Assembly daily—some attending the sessions, others simply showing Igreja Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e 40 interest, perhaps curiosity, over what the CCA is and what its Assembly was do- Uniting Church in Australia 41 ing. We were received enthusiastically by the churches at worship on the Sunday we were there. That the President of Indonesia, Abdurrahman Wahid, visited and Global Currents addressed the Assembly added significance to the event, for us and for the peo- Globalisation Colloquium 42 ple of that part of Indonesia. We were promised and were given an Assembly that Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance 43 was held at the ‘bosom of the people’. U Kyaw Than, one of the former General Newsbriefs 44 Secretaries of the CCA, underscored in his letter that in terms of the participa- tion of churches and people and the creative work that this produces, no other Coming Events 45 CCA Assembly could compare with Tomohon. Publications 47 Were we starting a precedent, or perhaps a tradition? Certainly not intention- ally. The Tomohon Assembly however has raised rather pointedly issues that fu- ture gatherings of the CCA must have to consider, issues, for example, that have to do with what it means for the CCA as an ecumenical body to be ‘of the church,’ VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 3 and ‘of the people’, and what it means for both to support and enable CCA events SEPTEMBER 2000 and activities in the future. Official publication of the Christian Conference of Asia We are now in process of putting into operation the new program structure that the Tomohon Assembly approved. The new Personnel Committee has al- 96, 2nd District, Pak Tin Village, Mei Tin Road, Sha Tin, NT, ready met and will meet again in September to make recommendations concern- Hong Kong SAR, China ing executive staff matters. The Search Committee for the new General Secretary Telephone + 852 2691 1068 has started its work in preparation for the first regular meetings of the new Gen- Fax + 852 2692 4378 email [email protected] eral and Executive Committees in early December. Presumably, at these meet- www.cca.org.hk ings, the new General Secretary will be elected. The first joint meetings of the

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF program area committees will be held in the early part of 2001. While we are not Feliciano V. Cariño ‘re-inventing CCA’, it seems nevertheless clear that CCA is on a good organisa- EDITOR tional and programmatic footing as it starts work in the new millennium. Geoff Alves As ever we are grateful to the Gereja Masehi Injili di Minahasa (GMIM) for EDITORIAL BOARD having hosted the 11th Assembly and for having shared so much of its life and Henriette Hutabarat Daniel Thiagarajah resources with us during our stay in Tomohon. Feliciano V. Cariño

2 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Fullness of Life for All An assembly to remember

he General Assembly in Tomohon will long be re- vision and a new structure for CCA. The important paper, membered in the history of CCA. It certainly was a ‘Towards New Thrusts and a New Structure for the CCA’ is T‘time for fullness of life for all’. published in this issue of CCA News as a lift-out supple- ment. Examining the role and purpose of the ecumenical Fullness! work in Asia at a time of enormous changes in the world First, it will be remembered for where and how it was held. and with the practicalities of economics, this document What a welcome the participants received! Each day large provides a blueprint for CCA in the future. numbers of people came to visit the Assembly at the top of Inspiration Hill. Everything we did was observed with inter- For All! est. As Tomohon is only a small country town we stayed Further, the Tomohon Assembly will hopefully be remem- with the people in their homes. Who could forget the warmth bered as the time we began to realise that our organisation of the hospitality we received? Who could forget the meals? must be for all people, not just a few. The paper on the new A local was heard to comment, ‘This is good. Just exactly structure reminds us that large numbers of Christians in what the CCA theme says: time for fullness of life for all!’ In Asia are outside our movement, that there are many (and Indonesian it meant it was time for everyone to fill their large) countries and churches who are not part of CCA. And stomachs to the full! We are grateful to GMIM and the peo- the debates at the Assembly reminded us yet again that we ple of Northern Sulawesi for their incredible generosity in still have a way to go in including all of our people in the providing so much. life of CCA—especially women and youth.

Life! We invite you to share some of the fullness of the life of the Next, the 2000 Assembly, held at the rim of the twenty-first Tomohon Assembly in the next few pages. century, will be remembered for bringing to fruition a new Geoff Alves

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 3 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Grand Opening to Assembly

Thousands fill the Minado stadium to celebrate the commencement of the 11th General Assembly

he Manado Football Stadium Assembly ‘not to be listeners but do- The second part of the opening cer- was filled to overflowing as ers of God’s will’. To do so, the lead- emonies was highlighted by a spec- T more than 10,000 people gath- ing Indonesian church leader asked tacular showcase of dances and ered for the solemn yet festive worship delegates to engage in deep and seri- theatrical presentations featuring 300 service that marked the opening of the ous review as well as envision the gen- Indonesian youth. 11th CCA Assembly. eral direction and common vision for The tableau depicted the different Traditional North Sulawesi songs the future mission and programs of the parts of Indonesia and their suffering and dances and a beautifully choreo- CCA. before Jesus Christ came. Scourged graphed ‘human moving-billboard’, ‘The assembly is an opportunity,’ Dr and beaten, he carried his cross to involving more than 2,000 schoolchil- Roeroe continued, ‘to reaffirm and save all people. dren, greeted the delegates and ob- rearticulate our common vision and Evil was represented by Salome rid- servers along with the people of the fervent wish for the fullness of life not ing in a chariot spreading confusion area. only in Indonesia, but in Asia and the in her wake. After the welcoming The ceremony opened with the Pre- world over.’ speeches, participants were intro- sidium striking gongs—a signal to re- The culmination of the two-hour duced country by country as their ban- lease hundreds of multi-colored service was the sending forth of the ners were paraded in front of the balloons. faithful by GMIM pastors. grandstand. Prayers, scripture read- ing and songs, in English and Indonesian, including a simultaneous recitation of the Lord’s Prayer in differ- ent languages dominated the opening worship. Addressing the crowd, Dr W.R. Roeroe, former moderator of the Christian Evangelical Church in Mina- hasa (GMIM), said the Assembly came at a particu- larly sensitive time in the life of the Indonesian churches in particular and Indonesia in general. The host coun- try has been battered by economic, social and politi- cal crises. Dr Roeroe chal- CCA Presidium, Margaret Rodgers, Aye Mo Tin, Yotaro Konaka and Kenneth Fernando sound gongs to lenged the delegates to the commence the 11th Assembly

4 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY An Extraordinary Assembly

The Christian Conference of Asia adopts a new structure

he Extraordinary General As- persons for these concerns were also CCA General Secretary Dr Feliciano sembly held on 1 June 2000 accepted. Cariño explained the need for this kind T voted for a new program struc- In the new arrangement there will of a new program structure for CCA in ture and constitutional amendments be four parts—the General Secre- the emerging Asian ecumenical and for CCA. tariat; Faith, Mission and Unity; Justice, ecclesiastical context. The process, which had been go- International Affairs, Development and Dr Cariño, who was an Executive ing on for the past five years since the Service; and Ecumenical Formation, Committee member before being 10th General Assembly in Colombo, Gender Justice and Youth Empower- elected as the General Secretary of reached its culmination when the As- ment. CCA, was instrumental in drafting the sembly unanimously voted for all con- The proposals for a new structure first vision and structure of CCA, which stitutional amendments. The new and vision and the constitutional was published at the 10th General As- program structure allows CCA to carry amendments prepared by special com- sembly in Colombo in 1995. out its program with more flexibility mittees and approved by the Executive The Assembly approved all consti- instead of limiting its activities within and General Committees of CCA tutional amendments and rules and nine program units as in the past. had been circulated to CCA member regulations without any discussion The youth and women delegates’ churches and councils six months except for clarification on certain recommendations for separate staff prior to the Assembly. clauses.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 5 GENERAL ASSEMBLY A Celebration of Unity

The local and the universal brought together in communion

he communion that began the first day’s proceedings was a Tvery moving experience. People from almost all denominations repre- sented in CCA were able to take part, using the worldwide ecumenical Lima Liturgy. The principal celebrant was His Grace Metropolitan Dr Joseph Mar Iranaeus, assisted in the whole liturgy by three clergy. About sixty bishops and clergy from different regions of Asia and different ecclesiastical tradi- tions participated as cocelebrants. A feature of the communion service was the involvement of the local churches, which meant there was a conjunction of the local with the universal in this expression of the body of Christ. The elements were in the context of Minahasan culture—the bread was the bread of hospitality, offered when a guest comes to a house, and local wine was served in bamboo cups.

The first day of the Assembly commenced with a very moving communion service shared with the local churches

6 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Visit of Indonesian President

Dialogue with President Wahid

he 11th General Assembly of the The president told how a Muslim different from each other. We must Christian Conference of Asia intellectual had told him he was a bad accept this difference, we must accept Twas priveliged to have as a spe- Muslim. each other’s values and ways of under- cial guest the President of the Repub- ‘You must be harsh on others standing God. lic of Indonesia, Abdurrahman Wahid. [Christians].’ he was told. Wahid re- Wahid was impressed by the sec- After a few introductory speeches, minded him that the Koran actually ond Vatican Council’s statement that President Wahid made his way slowly says that we must be harsh on those the bishops respected the rights of oth- to the microphone and addressed a who reject God—which does not in- ers. He also noted that tolerance is full assembly hall of delegates, other clude Christians. The intellectual had embedded in the history and tradition participants and observers on the ne- to admit, ‘I was wrong.’ of Southeast Asia. cessity for toler- The Koran ance. calls for toler- He reminded ance. Property ac- everyone how im- cumulated by portant the gath- contributions ering was—how made by non- we, regardless of Muslims should nationality, ideol- be used for the ogy, views, cul- benefit of all. tures and lang- All this was uages, could meet relevant for the together to talk leaders of our so- about our his- ciety. Tolerance is tory and see what not one sided. could happen in It is a challenge, the future. and it may mean He hoped that we have to lose it would be the Yotaro Konaka welcomes President Wahid to the Assembly something. Deci- wish of the people sions of leaders at this conference that they would Wahid said there exists a profound should be related directly to the wel- agree with his oft-quoted statement: misunderstanding of Islam and Chris- fare of the people. Religious leaders ‘We should have dialogue, not mono- tianity from both sides. Many Muslims too have to think about the welfare of logue.’ do not understand Christianity and the people. They must exercise their We must be willing to hear the other there are many Christians who do not religion for the benefit of all. side. We must begin, Wahid said, by understand Islam. The president only had time to an- understanding other peoples. This of He reminded us that the Bible and swer two questions—on the economy course must work both ways: they must the Koran are not the same, and that and the unrest in many parts of his give us understanding also. Christians are not the same. We are country.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 7 GENERAL ASSEMBLY New Office-bearers Assembly elects presidium and committee members for the next five years

Presidium Rev. Kim Dong Wan, Methodist Ms Leslie Capus, Philippines Rev. Jennifer Dawson, Anglican Church, Korea Independent Church, Philippines Church, Aotearoa New Zealand Ms Mone Keo, Lao Evangelical Ms Rachel Kronberger, Uniting Mr Anthony Row, Methodist Church, Church, Laos Church, Australia Malaysia Rt Rev. Julius Paul, Evangelical Rev. Albert Walters, Anglican Church, Dr Wong Wai Ching, Anglican Lutheran Church, Malaysia Malaysia Church, Hong Kong Rev. Smith N. Za Thawng, Baptist Rev. Dr Pradit Tagerngrangsarit, Suffragan Metropolitan Dr Joseph Church, Myanmar Church of Christ, Thailand Mar Irenaus, Malankara Mar Mr Victor Azariah, Presbyterian Rev. Max Reid, Presbyterian Church, Thoma Syrian Church, India Church, Pakistan Aotearoa New Zealand Ms Sharon Rose Joy Duremdes, Rev. Eric So, Congregational Church, Honorary Treasurer Baptist Church, Philippines Hong Kong Mr Israel Poulraj, Anglican Church, Mr Rohan Edirisinghe, Anglican Rev. Jothiwi, Methodist Church, Sri Sri Lanka Church, Sri Lanka Lanka Rev. William J.K. Lo, Presbyterian Ms Nang May San Oo, Baptist Church, Taiwan Church, Myanmar General Committee Rev. Chuleepan Srisutorn-Person, Ms Fuailelagi J.S. Saleupolu, Church of Christ, Thailand Justice, International Affairs, Development Methodist Church, Aotearoa New and Service Zealand Rt Rev. Elmer Bolocon (Moderator), Rev. John Gilmore, Churches of Program Area Committees United Church of Christ, Christ, Australia Philippines Ms Helen Monisha Sarkar, Faith, Mission and Unity Ms Lee Hyun-Sook (Co-moderator), Bangladesh Baptist Sangha, Rev. Dr A.A. Yewanggoe Presbyterian Church in the Bangladesh (Moderator), Christian Church in Republic of Korea, Korea Rev. Francisco M. de Vasconzales, Sumba, Indonesia Mr Marvin Farrukh, Church of Christian Church, East Timor Rev. Dr Cheng Yan En Pakistan, Pakistan Mr Wan Hoi Wing, Anglican Church, (Co-moderator), Ms Marlene Sigar, Evangelical Hong Kong Presbyterian Church, Christian Church in Minahasa, Rev. G. Dyvasirvadham, Church of Taiwan Indonesia South India, India Rt Rev. Samuel Pervaiz, Church of Rev. Toshimasa Yamamoto, United Mr Tony Waworuntu, Protestant Pakistan, Pakistan Church of Christ, Japan Church in Western Indonesia, Ms Vidya Rani, United Evangelical Mr Albert Lin, Presbyterian Church, Indonesia Lutheran Church, India Taiwan Rev. Kenichi Otsu, United Church of Rev. Lee Sang Yoon, Methodist Mr Sok Sovandy, Methodist Church, Christ in Japan, Japan Church, Korea Cambodia Mr Smak Sothy, Independent Church, Rev. Dr Son-Jae, Korean Christian Rev. Dr Pa Sang, Independent Cambodia Church, Japan Church, Myanmar

8 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Rev. Dr James Haire, Uniting Church, Australia Mr Robert Rabin Marrandi, Churches Assembly Liturgy: Asian, of God, Bangladesh Mr Saykham, Lao Evangelical Church, Laos Inclusive, Moving Rt Rev. S. Jebanesan, Church of South India, Jaffna Diocese, Sri Lanka Mr Samuel Marcel, Christian Church in East Timor, East Timor Ms Rachel Woodhouse, Anglican Church, Aotearoa New Zealand

Ecumenical Formation, Gender Justice and Youth Empowerment Ms Khusnud Mussarat (Moderator), Church of Pakistan, Pakistan Mr Boonyarit Promsuttipong (Co- moderator), Church of Christ, Thailand Prof. Monica Mannan, Church of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Assembly delegates limbering up before a worship service Mr Vivek Masih, Church of North India, India uddenly I realised I am Asian!’ one Bible study was also ‘meaningful’ Ms Mun Yung Eun, Presbyterian Ji-Hyun Nam was herself sur- because of its message of peace. Po- Church in Korea, Korea Sprised at the power of the lit- litical, ideological and ethnic conflicts Mr Taro Ahihara, Anglican Church, urgy at the 11th CCA Assembly. ‘It was in his country disturb him. Japan weird to me,’ the Korean youth del- ‘We like it in the morning when eve- Ms Ngeth Sambo, Independent egate quickly added. Nam says she is rything is peaceful and quiet. But at Church, Cambodia used to Western worship forms. ‘But night we are too tired,’ says Vivanh Dr Mary Dun, Myanmar Baptist prayer and the way the Indonesians Kommanmuang, delegate from Laos. Convention, Myanmar treat me is wonderful.’ The liturgy ‘frames the day’, Aus- Ms Amie Dural, Catholic Church, It was not only business at the As- tralian youth delegate Rachel Kron- Philippines sembly. The carefully prepared litur- berger observed, ‘The liturgy works. Rev. Cathy Thomson, Anglican gies that started and ended the day If it does then there’s hope that the Church, Australia ‘strengthened the spirit’ and imparted whole thing will.’ Mr Paul Johnny, Lutheran Church, a sense of inclusiveness in the diverse Daily services including the Holy Malaysia but transient community. Eucharist at the opening worship re- Ms Vivanh K., Lao Evangelical Mynamar’s Lai Thuama was moved. volved around the Assembly theme, Church, Laos ‘I am very happy. Today I sang in Bur- ‘Time for Fullness of Life for All’. Rev. T.P. Simarmata, Batak Protestant mese and Korean. The different lan- Crafted by a special worship commit- Christian Church, Indonesia guages make me feel so accepted.’ tee, the liturgy aimed to help partici- Ms Christina Wong, Independent The Moderator of the Presbyterian pants to encounter God and each Church, Hong Kong Church in Mynamar, Thuama said that other.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 9 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

The Tomohon Experience Susan Jacob

ukit Inspirasi and the smoking volcano of Mount Above all, that this Assembly was held ‘in the bosom’ Lokon symbolised the spirit of the CCA Assem- of the Indonesian people caused me to redefine my Bbly. Imposing, impressive and inspiring, they Christian values of love, sharing and community build- upheld the triumph of the indomitable spirit of our In- ing. I learnt: donesian brothers and sisters, who succeeded in host- • what it meant to throw one’s heart and one’s home ing this Assembly of gigantic proportions! open to strangers, The volcano, with dense, thick clouds looming over • what a pleasure it was to give, when the giving comes it, reminded me of the eternal presence of God in all his from the heart, majesty throughout our ecumenical journey. • that no burden is heavy when it is shared by loving The Assembly remains in my mind (and heart) as a hands, collage of colourful, vivid, vibrant and pleasant memo- • to go through the chemistry of bonding with people ries—the grand opening ceremony, the visit of the from neighbouring countries who were hitherto po- President, carefully prepared worship services, well-con- litical rivals. ducted sessions, thought-provoking theme lectures, dis- All involved have to be congratulated for the well-oiled cussions, business sessions, Berita (the Assembly efficiency with which the whole Assembly was conducted. newspaper), wonderful Asian music, the richness and And finally, as inscribed on Bukit Inspirasi: ‘We re- diversity of the mountains of food served, the smiles, ceive inspiration and improvisation and then go back warmth and friendliness of the Indonesian people—eve- down to the slopes and valleys and the whole land, since rything could be described in superlatives! in those places, the kingdom of God comes in the midst I felt proud and honoured to be a part of this great of struggle: the building up of the people of God who Assembly where momentous decisions were taken. It give thanks and rejoice because God is with them in His helped me to realise the tremendous responsibility each victory.’ one of us has as Christians, not only in our own sphere (Susan Jacob is from the Orthodox Church in but also to each other. Chennai, India)

10 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Reframing the Niles Lectures he Niles Lectures at the Assembly were based on the themes of the Assembly and were delivered by three View Toutstanding church leaders from Asia. Philip Freier

here I live in Darwin, the location of Aus- tralia on the rim of Asia is very apparent. WThroughout the crisis in East Timor, Dar- win figured prominently because of its close prox- imity to this part of South Asia. Even in Tomohon, my home in Darwin was a shorter distance than was Jakarta, the capital of In- donesia. Time for Fullness of Life for All: Wesley Ariarajah Many Australians are wanting to throw off the Dr S. Wesley Ariarajah delivered the theme presentation. mindset that has been part of their colonial origins Dr Ariarajah is Professor of Ecumenical Theology at Drew and history as an offshoot of British imperialism. University in the United States. For me, participation in the CCA Assembly was a DR ARIARAJAH’S ADDRESS was chiefly about Christian discern- further and important step for my church and for ment and behaviour in a pluralistic world. Referring to the me personally to reframe the view that we hold of situation in many Asian countries he said, ‘The most diffi- the world in a new century. cult and challenging time is not the time of wandering but The twentieth century saw the birth of Australian the time of settlement.’ independence in 1901. The challenge of the new cen- He said that we all have the temptation to follow other tury is for all Australians to relate to their place in gods. ‘It is time to say that I and my household will serve the Asia Pacific region. God.’ But, according to Dr Ariarajah, Christians need to re- The CCA Assembly showed how cultural and lan- evaluate and repent of the way they serve God. He indicated guage differences can meet in the unity of faith and that Jesus taught that we first should serve our neighbour. mission, to which we are all called in Christ. The According to Dr Ariarajah fullness of life cannot be di- generosity of the church in Minahasa encouraged a vorced from the basic needs of the people, rather it has to real sense of participation in the life of that church do with worth and justice and accountability to all human and community. life. The earth is the Lord’s and everybody is under God’s I often talk to different church groups about the care. Everybody therefore can become God’s child. need to change our approach to committees, so that His message of inclusiveness was informed by christology. we recognise that we are also a community, and ‘God did not become Christian. God became human.’ That, emphasise our fundamental ecclesial purpose. he said, is something Christians easily forget. ‘Goodness is I experienced the CCA Assembly in this way and for all. Otherwise it is not goodness.’ rejoice to have shared in its life and work in And how are we to be good? Dr Ariarajah told the story Tomohon. of Abraham. Instead of building an ark to escape troubles, (Philip Freier is the Anglican Bishop of Darwin, as Noah did, Abraham bargained with God on behalf of his Australia) neighbours in Sodom who were about to be destroyed. Dr Ariarajah’s charge was for us to do likewise.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 11 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

From Young CCA to Middle Age CCA, to Young Again? Jin Arai

have an impression that CCA has become a ‘middle may not allow them to do so. Furthermore, the respon- aged CCA’. At the General Assembly when we elected sibility of the presidency may be too heavy for youth.’ Ithe members of the presidium and the members of We need to hear these opinions. We need to be respon- the three program area committees, we experienced dif- sible and reliable in Asia. ficulty in electing young members. As a result, the pre- However, it seems to me that CCA should be formed, sidium lost a young president and it became a ‘middle supported, and sustained by all members of the mem- aged’ presidium. This result disappointed many del- ber churches and ecumenical institutions, including egates, especially young delegates who would like to con- young people. They will learn ecumenism through their tribute to the formation and reformation of CCA. CCA experience and pass the CCA heritage to the next Some delegates, though, expressed concern regard- generation. ing young people. ‘Though they are energetic, they may I hope CCA will become a ‘young CCA’ again at the not be able to complete their responsibility because they 12th Assembly. could probably change their job or place of living within (Jin Arai is from the United Church of Christ in five years. Even if they want to work with CCA, their life Japan)

Niles Lectures

For Such a Time as This: Our Moment in God’s Time: Wong Wai Ching Dr Wong Wai Ching is the Assistant Professor of Religion at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. DR WONG began by asking: Why do we have a such an obses- sion with time in the CCA community? For God there is no urgency for a new time, and there is no irrelevance of past time. However for us there is an urgency for a new time. The year 2000 marks a beginning and an end. For ourselves and our communities it is a time to confess our sins, repent as good and evil, each with their own pasts and futures. So, of wrong deeds and to ask for forgiveness and dream new Wai Ching asked, are the tasks laid down for us by the early dreams before God. leaders still valid? Is the task still unfinished? What does The urge to inquire about the beginning and the end has Asia mean to us today? We have left behind the nation build- always been central to all religions. In Revelation there is ing of newly independent states. Now we have modernisa- no absolute separation between present and future. They tion and globalisation. The latter bypasses the will of are not condemned to eternal conflict; there is no surpass- individual national governments and people at large, made ing of the old by the new; the two coexist in human history possible by a world financial system that is stateless.

12 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Niles Lectures against which Christian communities are building commu- nities in the new millennium. Revelation assures us however that where there is threat So, said Prof. Briones, the churches in Asia face formi- and crisis, there is also comfort and hope. Therefore what dable challenges: we need is not a sequential future that completely sepa- First, there is the challenge of poverty. Nearly one in three rates from this time but a divine reality. Asians is poor. The absolutely poor (earning less than US$1 Ironically, globalisation comes as a new opportunity for a day) present special problems for churches. They are to- the peoples of Asia to reunderstand our cultures and tradi- tally excluded from the economy and the political and so- tions. It means constantly engaging in intercultural and cial system of the country. They are not being reached by interreligious interaction and communication, allowing the anti-poverty programs. While the UN, the Asia Development greatest inclusivity of the ‘others’ into oneself. The hope Bank, civil and church-related endeavours have started mas- for a true unity of humankind depends on the existence and sive anti-poverty programs, external events are creating power of local traditions, on the strength of the wisdom many more poor people. that is stored within them and the possibility to express this Next, there is the challenge of debt. The debt stocks for wisdom in ways relevant to the contemporary global situa- Asia and the Pacific were a massive $862 billion in 1998. tion. There is a correlation between the state of indebtedness of Digging deep into our experiences and faith, Wai Ching a country and its capacity to render basic services to its believes, will help to bring out a web of multiple traditions people. The challenge is to come up with feasible solutions. of Asian Christianity which will provide a helpful counter- The declaration of a Jubilee Year on Debt is a step in the balance to the totalistic aspect of globalisation and shape a right direction and needs to be sustained. In the Philippines, true unity of humanity for a new generation. Prof Briones has implemented a policy of low and sustain- able interest rates, which is reducing the burden. Efforts to New Communities for the New Millennium: Leonor Briones give relief to highly indebted countries must continue. Prof. Leonor M. Briones is the Treasurer of the Then there is the challenge of conflict and civil strife. Philippines. Always it is the innocent who suffer most from armed con- flict. In the Philippines where there is armed conflict it has resulted in unemployment, poverty and human suffering. The religions of the world have been leading the quest for unity and peace. As Christians we cannot wait for another two thousand years before peace can be attained. So, how can churches attain the goal of ‘fullness of life for all’? For centuries Christian churches have been taking care of their own. There is a need to go beyond this, to non- Christians. They must seek solutions to the root causes of poverty, not just its effects. It is time perhaps for Christians to leave the safe confines of their churches and go out into PROF. BRIONES said many countries in Asia are faced with the world and join civic organisations, governments and deteriorating levels of human development as measured in movements to speak out on national and global issues. In terms of income, life expectancy and education. They have an age of globalisation, information technology and scien- had to deal with a financial crisis, natural disasters and civil tific development that has changed moral perspectives and strife. Yet, while there are images of economic recovery and values Christians must speak out. exciting advances in information technology, this is taking Finally, that since we are a minority in Asia, Christians place amidst suffering and misery, the consequences of con- must touch base with other religions who are just as con- flict and environmental degredation. This is the backdrop cerned about poverty, debt and armed conflict.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 13 GENERAL ASSEMBLY The New Presidium

works as managing director of an in- India, President of the Kerala Chris- ternational firm in Kuala Lumpur. He tian Council, and served on the boards was a delegate of the Methodist Church or committees of various other ecu- to the WCC Assembly in Harare in menical organisations and institutions 1998. He also provides leadership in in India and abroad. He served on the the Council of Churches of Malaysia in International Affairs Committee of CCA a few program areas. from 1985 to 1990. He became a member of the General Committee of CCA in1995 and was subsequently elected to the Executive Committee.

Jennifer Dawson JENNY DAWSON is a priest with the Angli- can Church of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia. She works for the Dio- cese of Christchurch as Ministry Edu- cator resourcing clergy and lay people together. She was formerly a second- ary school teacher. Jenny has two adult children and in her spare time enjoys Joseph Mar Irenaeus painting and bushwalking. METROPOLITAN DR JOSEPH MAR IRANAEUS is the Suffragen Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church in India. He Wong Wai-Ching received his first degree from Kerala DR WONG WAI-CHING is a member of the University and did his theological edu- Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui (the An- cation at the United Theological glican Church of Hong Kong and College in Bangalore. He did his post- Macau). Dr Wong currently occupies graduate theological studies at the the position of Assistant Professor of Virginia Episcopal Seminary in Alex- Religion at the Chinese University of andria, Virgina, USA and at the Wycliff Hong Kong. One of the young and Hall, Oxford, and St Augustine College, widely sought-after women theologians Canterbury, in the UK. He entered into of Asia, Dr Wong earned her doctoral the priesthood of the Mar Thoma degree in Old Testament Studies and Church in 1957 and was consecrated Feminist Theology from the University Anthony Row as Bishop in 1975. He has been a of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA. ANTHONY ROW from Malaysia is involved bishop in various dioceses of the Mar Prior to her present position, she as a lay leader in the local and national Thoma Church and was president or served as Secretary for Asia and the church life of the Methodist Church in moderator of different departments of Pacific and later became Chairperson Malaysia. He has studied theology, law the church. He has been President of of the World Student Christian Federa- and business administration and the National Council of Churches in tion.

14 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Removing the Blinkers Asia Ecumenical Course 2000

n the wee hours of the morning, I Presbyterian, Mar Thoma, Reformed, started us thinking of creative ways of boarded a taxi for the airport, with United/Uniting etc.) I felt nervous and giving claps of welcome, affirmation Ia huge luggage, a box of books and embarrassed that I didn’t know much and appreciation. Then she empha- an overnight backpack. Also armed about many of the other traditions nor sised that our worship must be crea- with my notebook, I was ready for a the newer united/uniting churches, tive and Asian. She divided us into four month of serious study and plenty of except the one thing I had been taught, groups and we took turns to plan, or- writing at the Asia Ecumenical Course i.e. that they were from churches that ganise and execute the entire day’s (AEC), organised by the Christian Con- protested and broke away from the activities starting from the morning ference of Asia (CCA) in Tomohon, Catholic church. worship. As each group drew ideas Minahasa, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. However, when we met Cora from from their members’ practices and This course was initiated to equip CCA, who organised this course, on experiences, we experienced great young church leaders with the knowl- arrival, my nervousness evaporated. richness in our worship, which used edge, attitude and skills necessary for She was so open and bubbly I felt symbols and hymns from different participating in the ecumenical task. warm and welcomed. She had such a Christian and Asian cultural traditions, As such, most of the twenty partici- celebrative mood about her that we as well as creative forms of reflections pants from ten countries (Australia, were charmed into joining her in mak- on the scriptural readings, like rituals Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malay- ing our sessions creative and lively. I and skits. sia, Aotearoa New Zealand, Pakistan, knew we were in for something I would I soon realised that my notebook the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Taiwan) never have anticipated. First, she was redundant. This same creative were in the age range of 30 to 45. coaxed us into getting up to do medi- approach was also encouraged for the Involved in activities of the Catho- tative exercises at 6.30 in the morn- preparation and presentation of all our lic church most of my life, this was the ing. We had to grudgingly agree but as reports. This approach, an expression first time I found myself in the com- the days went by, we grew to enjoy and of what she called ‘ecumenical lan- pany of women and men from so many appreciate these early morning exer- guage’ (i.e. communicating in any of the other Christian traditions (An- cises together for the energy it gave us creative way, either with words, glican, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, to see each day through. Next, she phrases, hand or body movements,

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 15 GENERAL ASSEMBLY drawings, symbols, drama, songs all brothers and sisters, which is not and challenges of the churches in etc.), was appreciated by many among only among the community leaders but some Asian countries, we were deeply us who found great difficulty in ex- goes right down to the person in the moved to hear that churches not only pressing ourselves in English. To tell street. We were even requested to tell thrive under oppression, but are our personal stories, we had to draw the world that communal unrest is only greatly challenged by it. a symbol which we had to explain, and in certain parts of Indonesia and defi- As I prepared to leave Tomohon, I instead of a boring history lesson on nitely not in Minahasa, where the had mixed feelings, as did all of the the ecumenical journey in each of our people do not take for granted the har- course participants. As much as we countries, we had very interesting mony they enjoy but make great efforts looked forward to family and home, presentations in charts and diagrams. to maintain that peace. we were sad that the life we had shared Using charts, postcards, posters, flags, Another component of the course together was over. Those four weeks maps, magazines and any other aid we was our participation as observers at removed the blinkers I have had on could think of, our presentations of the 11th General Assembly of the CCA, which kept me knowledgeable and in- our county’s socioeconomic and po- which gathered about 300 participants volved only in things Catholic. Living, litical situation was very informative, consisting of delegates, guests, ecu- learning, listening, sharing, laughing fascinating and colourful. menical partners and foreign and lo- and crying together with my brothers One component of the course was cal observers from different parts of and sisters from different countries to expose us to the community and Asia. At the sessions, we watched the and Christian traditions has taught me church life of the people of Minahasa. youth and women fight for fair partici- that God created us to speak differ- One weekend, we were divided into pation in the presidium and the gen- ently, behave differently, look differ- groups and sent to spend one night eral committee, in spite of their ently, like different foods, look at with the Christian community in one unfamiliarity with the process and the situations and issues differently, re- of four areas, and the next weekend, obvious control of the men and clergy. spond differently, believe in different we were sent to spend two nights with I am truly amazed at the courage, elo- things, express our belief in different the Muslim community in another four quence and tenacity of the youth in ways, and understand and relate to areas. Again we had a hilarious time fighting for their rights in the midst of God differently. I believe that God when each of the groups presented their elders. Observing the proceed- wants us to enjoy the diversity and be their reflections of their visits in songs ings, I was sad to note that the Catho- enriched by it and thereby realise that and skits. We found both communities lic church has far to go in forming and God is much, much, much more than very hospitable, and we were treated involving youth and women, and espe- what we can see, hear, smell, taste, like VIPs in their homes and at the vari- cially the laity, in decision-making po- touch and comprehend. I have learnt ous community gatherings and func- sitions in church structures and that ecumenism and interreligious dia- tions we attended. The Christian organisations. logue is not just talking or learning but community life was centred on wor- This course also arranged for us to about living—living life actively, fos- ship, in the church and the commu- meet and listen to church leaders in tering the understanding of, having a nity groups of men, women, youth and the ecumenical field. With the course commitment to and being fully in- children, while the Muslim community encompassing the CCA Assembly, we formed and participating in the proc- life is centred on community gather- had the opportunity to listen to more ess of bringing about the kin(g)-dom ings for expositions of the Koran and church leaders from different parts of of God, where everyone is able to be life events like weddings and births. Asia than would have been possible who they really are and contribute The close relationship between the two otherwise. their particular gift. religious communities was especially We were briefed on the many Chris- Clare Law, Fostering Inter- highlighted to us. They have a slogan tian traditions as well as given an in- Religious Encounters (FIRE) and ‘Torang samua basaudara’ (Kita orang sight into Islamic spirituality. From Empowerment, Church of St semua bersaudara), meaning we are their first-hand sharing of the situation Francis Xavier, Petaling Jaya

16 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 WHATEVER Among the Smiling People The Women’s Forum in Kombi

ost Christian Conference of We endeavoured to re-read the Bi- Cognisant that women in Asia have Asia (CCA) delegates, like ble with new eyes—from a woman’s tremendous gifts that are yet to be fully Mmyself, had never heard of perspective—and through the ex- tapped, the women’s forum also Tomohon—that is until CCA accepted change of experience and reflection strongly urged the CCA Assembly to the invitation of the Gereja Maseji Injili identified and named life-denying ensure equal participation of women di Minahas (GMIM) Church of Indo- forces, which like heavy stones, keep in CCA, its member councils and mem- nesia to host the 11th General Assem- women in bondage. ber churches. bly. Even travel agents needed to refer The Women’s Forum urged the For me, Indonesia is no longer just to their maps as very few tourists churches of Asia and the CCA Assem- a place of political unrest, of areas choose to visit North Sulawesi, Indo- bly to join in solidarity to remove the where there is conflict between Mus- nesia. stones of oppression that bear down lim and Christian, of a diminishing The General Assembly was pre- heavily on women and called that pri- economy where US$1 equals 8,000 ceded by a Women’s Forum, a Youth ority be given: rupiah (half of what it was a few years Forum and a People’s Forum. I at- • to leadership development for ago) but a place of real people—farm- tended the Women’s Forum. women, ers (harvesting cloves, coconut, nut- Kombi, with a population of 1,556 • to in-depth study and analysis of the meg, vanilla, cinnamon, coffee, rice, people known as ‘the smiling people’, various forms and root causes of corn, peanuts, carrots and much is a quiet village, nestled in lush green violence against women, more—but not apples!), fishermen, hills, about 450–500 m above sea level • in taking a prophetic stand furniture makers, fabric makers. We and enjoying a comfortable tempera- against globalisation, highlighting lived in their homes, we saw them at ture between 23 and 27 degrees. The its moral, ethical and spiritual im- work in the villages, and we wor- church was celebrating 154 years plications, and come up with crea- shipped in their churches. since the first people were baptised tive alternatives. Ruth Bilverstone (from Crosslink) there on 30 May 1846. To this place of peace, joy, music and generous hos- pitality came fifty-one women from Thailand, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Philip- pines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Korea, Ja- pan, Indonesia, India, Bangladesh, Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, to reflect on the theme of the Assem- bly ‘Time for Fullness of Life for All’. Women were made abundantly aware of the relevance of the theme to the lives of church women, as we lis- tened intently to each other’s stories, shared each other’s pains, celebrated each other’s joys and affirmed each other’s gifts.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 17 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Stories of Struggle Highlights of the Youth Forum

n line with the theme for the As- presented were based on personal ex- still alive, even in the terrible condi- sembly, the theme for the Youth Fo- periences. tions that these people lived in. They Irum was ‘The Stories of Struggle Exposure trips were another part of owned nothing, but were willing to for the Fullness of Life for All’. So we the program and we got to see the situ- share what little they had with their shared stories of people struggling in ations of injustice that many Indone- Christian brothers and sisters. The our own countries and communities. sian people live through. Of the six environment within the complex was Hearing and reading these stories in- different exposure programs I chose physically sickening for me. The heat, troduced us to many struggles that we to go to a campsite where 3,700 dis- smell and sights were almost unbear- never knew existed and helped us to placed people from the Maluku islands able. We left the campsite with a mis- understand some of the more publi- were ‘temporarily’ living. They shared sion to spread the word of the peoples’ cised issues better. We had a presen- their stories of struggle and the dan- struggles to others in our home coun- tation session during one of the gers they faced while fleeing from the try. My prayers are always with those evenings to hear stories about the in- attacks and evading the ambushes of people. justice faced by ethnic minorities in Muslim armies. They told us of the Other groups of youth met with Northern India, the struggles of the struggles that they continue to go oppressed women workers, landless East Timorese, the Christian–Muslim through and what life had been like people, gold miners, sex workers and conflicts in Indonesia and the impact for them in the seven months since a Muslim minority community. I wish of military rocket experimenting on they had arrived at the camp. I was sur- that I could have seen them all because farming communities in rural Korea. prised to see and hear that the people the situations are quite different to This sharing was even more meaning- held no grudges—all they wanted was anything I could experience in Aus- ful because the stories which were to return to their homes. The spirit was tralia. However, we had an evening

18 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY where we were able to present our the youth would like the churches to an opportunity for the youth to meet, exposure trips with the other groups. respond to in the next five years. This bond, learn about CCA and prepare The sharing allowed us to reflect on was an important part of the pre-As- the statement. Over 70 youth from the economic, political and social is- sembly preparations because it en- many countries and from all over In- sues surrounding these problems but sured that we held discussions and donesia gathered for the forum to wor- it was also a chance to study the theo- incorporated the opinions and ideas ship together, share ideas and learn logical meaning that we can draw from of all the youth. It was a chance to from one another. Meeting delegates these experiences and the responses share our vision for the church. I think from the Philippines, India, Thailand, that we can make. that moment really helped me to Korea and so many other countries was This was a powerful lesson because develop my understanding of ecu- something that I will always cherish. I find expressing ideas into actions to menism. We were all there to learn but we also be the toughest part when responding I enjoyed the fellowship with the had so much fun. to need. other youth. The times we shared to- Peter Jung, from Australia, a The Youth Statement prepared dur- gether were very special and the Spirit participant at the Youth Forum ing the forum detailed the issues that was constantly with us. The forum was and a steward at the Assembly A Feast for All

THE 11TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY will surely be remembered The massive job of catering so much for so many was for its food. coordinated by Grace Siwu, the principal of Sekolah The food was supplied and prepared by local GMIM Menengah Kejuruan, a home economics school. Locals hear- congregations and families and students from vocational ing about the Assembly donated large amounts of supplies, schools. It was a mixture of the everyday food of the including eggs, coconuts and fish. area plus some special dishes. The most popular food On the last night a traditional meal was served, with soup was the grilled fish. in coconut shells, food on leaves and drink in bamboo cups.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 19 GENERAL ASSEMBLY Dancing amidst Suffering The Bunaken people, a symbol of life and struggle: a reflection from the People’s Forum

ight was never something to We might find the idea of life as a in and got from them, the spirit of fes- fear for the people of the tiny festival difficult to understand. Most tival, the spirit of joy they shared with Nisland of Bunaken. Night was people on the island are fisher-folks. us. a time of celebration. They said it was They go to sea in a group of ten to fif- Leaving the island of Bunaken, the time for their souls and bodies to re- teen. Usually they spend about three participants of the People’s Forum lease from the tiredness of a lengthy to seven days at sea, but sometimes shared and discussed their Bunaken day, fighting the sea and heat for some they can be away from their families stories and experiences and the na- fish that they could exchange for rice. for one month to bring back enough tional reports from each country rep- So the people were dancing to joyful fish to sell to the brokers who have resented in the forum. The Bunaken music, inviting everybody who was loaned them capital or boats. These people were not the only community there to join in. Souls and bodies brokers usually decide the price them- who live in poverty—poverty exagger- melted in an abundance of joy and selves. There is no bargaining. On av- ated by political conspiracies causing hope. erage the fisher-folk only get about horizontal conflicts such as religious No-one from the People’s Forum 80,000 to 300,000 rupiah a month and ethnic conflicts, communal vio- will ever forget the time when they (approximately US$10–45). How do lence, gender violence and others. It lived together with the people of you define a festival with such an in- seemed at times that most of the sto- Bunaken. The abundance of food, the come? What can be done with this ries and reports shared were only giv- joyful faces, the hospitality of the peo- amount for a family with three or four ing painful feelings and rage. But in ple, and the joyful spirit they shared children? Poverty is still a close friend further discussions it occurred to us were too great to forget. Life for the for them. In other words, life is too that there was some hope lying in each people of Bunaken was a festival. Every difficult for them to be defined as fes- story shared. So when we were find- day was a festival day. tive. And yet that was what we found ing it difficult to understand why peo-

Bunaken, a tiny island in North Sulawesi province, is about 30 minutes away by speedboat from Manado. Participants of the People’s Forum spent time there experiencing and reflecting on the lives of the people, especially those of the traditional fishers

20 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY ple could still dance and sing in that life should not be understood materi- Therefore, to me, the Bunaken peo- situation I used my woman’s heart, not alistically. People from industrial so- ple are a symbol of the life and, at the to understand, but to be there with the cieties bring materialism and same time, the struggle of people. people. capitalism that diminishes the hospi- Their generosity and hospitality are The life of the Bunaken people to tality and generosity of these people. part of their hope in the midst of suf- me symbolises life itself. For them, People often understand such spir- fering and poverty. Do we dare to say poverty is not something to worry ituality in negative way, hiding their that there is no struggle for a better about. This is not because their lives frustration by thinking poor people are life when a hope is found there? The are far from the problem of poverty, lazy. When we understand spirituality Bunaken people are dancing amidst but the opposite—it is because pov- as an expression of frustration or la- their suffering and their struggle for a erty has been a close friend, and has ziness, we will be misguided in help- better life. been part of their lives. So it is a mis- ing people to get out of their poverty. The People’s Forum was and should take to understand their dancing as That is why, as I said earlier, we do be always with them, joining in their ignorance of being poor. Their danc- not need to try to understand (using dancing amidst people’s suffering and ing and singing is not a kind of opium, our rationality) but simply to be there, people’s struggle. it is not a way of hiding their frustra- completely with the people. Social Be with the people! tion. No—their dancing should be analysis and theological reflection El. Anna Marsiana understood as a way of expressing should be given on the basis of ‘being (El. Anna Marsiana works with the their spirituality, a way of expressing with the people’ and not to ‘under- Social Welfare Guidance Founda- their belief and faith. It is the way most stand the people’. Understanding peo- tion, a local URM body founded by people express their feelings of pain ple does not require us to be with three churches in Solo, Indonesia. and worry and yet also have hope at people. Being with people not only She was a participant in the the same time. Poverty is not a hin- requires an integrative understanding People’s Forum held in Bunaken drance to them to be generous and of people but also helps us to have and Manado, North Sulawesi, on hospitable to others, as abundance of better understanding of people. 23–30 May 2000.)

Assembly Documents on the World Wide Web

The Assembly documentation is gradually being added to the CCA website as it becomes available. Visit www.cca.org.hk and go to the General Assembly page for details. One such document, GA06, ‘Statements on Public Issues’, which expresses the General Assembly’s concerns about a number of issues, is now avaiailable.

Berita Berita was the daily newspaper of the General Assembly. Sometimes in sessions more people could be seen reading Berita than the required official documents. Its popularity was such that copies were snatched up as soon as they hit the newsstands and people missed out. If you wish to read all about the Assembly (not necessarily the serious parts) or missed some issues, copies are now available on the CCA website—www.cca.org.hk

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 21 GENERAL ASSEMBLY New Member Churches and Council

t its General Assembly in June brother, arrived at another small coun- Thoma Syrian Church helped this CCA admitted into mem- try, Malabar, a Muslim populated small church to consecrate its metro- Abership three new member country at a place called Anjoor in the politans. Many Christians in India are churches and one member council: year 1771. With the help of a Mus- unaware of the church and its contri- • the Malabar Independent Syrian lim chieftain and some friends Mar bution to the history of the church in Church, Koorilose got enough land to build a India. • the Kampuchea Christian Council, beautiful church in the nearest village, The church became independ- • Gereja Kristen Timor Timur Thozhiyur. In the building of the ent when unfortunately one of the (now Igreja Protestante iha Timor church at Thozhiyur in 1772, a new metropolitans of the Ancient Malan- Lorosa’e), separate church appeared in the his- kara Church in 1857 filed a civil case • Kerapatan Gereja Protestan Mina- tory of the Syrian Christians of Kerala. against this small church and its met- hasa (KGPM) No variations took place in the doc- ropolitan for it properties. In 1863 trines, belief, faith, traditions and fun- the Madras High Court passed a judg- Malabar Independent Syrian Church damental principles exercised in the ment that the Ancient Thoziyur Church THE HEADQUARTERS AND CATHEDRAL of the existing church where Mar Koorilose was an independent Syrian Church in Malabar Independent Syrian Church is Metroplitan was consecrated. Now also Malabar and that other church au- at Thozhiyur, near Kunnamkulam in those fundamental teachings and prin- thorities had no right upon this Trichur district, Kerala State, South ciples as well as the traditions are church. India. followed today by the Malabar Inde- The Malabar Independent Syrian This ancient as well as traditional pendent Syrian Church, Thozhi- Church has never been a large church church was started in the year 1772 yur. This church was also known as and to this day retains something of as a part and parcel of the ancient Thozhiyur Bishopric or Thozhiyur the atmosphere of its origins as a band undivided Malankara Syrian Church, Church. of disciples around a bishop. The cur- which flourished in Kerala during that ‘This minute church has had an rent strength is above 25,000 mem- period. Various events led the non- importance in the history of the Tho- bers. It is organised into twelve Roman section of the Syrian Church mas Christians far greater than its parishes, each with its own building after the Coonen Cross Oath to conse- numbers would suggest,’ says Stephen and is served by eleven priests and one crate a bishop, namely Abraham Mar Neil, in A History of Christianity in In- deacon. (In addition there are two Koorilose Metropolitan in the year dia, II, p.70. During the reign of the congregations in Tamil Nadu, at 1767. Though this Mar Koorilose was fourth Metropolitan of this church, Madras and Coimbatore). approved by people as well as the three bishops were consecrated to the Sunday schools, youth leagues, kings of the period at first, soon Mar mother church, including H.G. Joseph women’s fellowships function in each Koorilose Metropolitan, consecrated Mar Dionisius Metropolitan, founder parish. The Youth League publishes a by Mar Gregoriose of Jerusalem was of Orthodox Theological Seminary, monthly magazine, Kunjhadukalude isolated by the King of Cochin Kingdom Kottayam, in 1816. H.G. Punnathara Velicham. as well as the church authorities. Thus, Mar Dionisius and H.G. Cheppatt Mar MISC runs four schools. The first after suffering prison and living in con- Dionisius Metropolitans were the oth- upper primary school started in 1848. finement in a forest, Mar Koorilose ers. The Mar Koorilose Mission Hospital Metropolitan was forced to leave his In 1894 the seventh Metropolitan began in 1972 at Thoziyur and has fifty native country Cochin as well as his of Thozhiyur Church consecrated H.G. beds with a laboratory, x-ray facilities beloved church there. So he, with his Titus I to Mathoma Church. The Mar and an operating theatre.

22 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

The general assembly of NCCI held The church was founded in 1988, premacy, justice, human rights and in 1996 at Nagpur took a favorable and has a total membership of 30,000. democracy. It is crucial for the church decision to approve the church as one It has seventy-five churches in over to develop a solid foundation for con- of the member churches. thirteen districts of East Timor. It has textual theologies and spiritual forma- forty pastors. tion among the members. Kampuchea Christian Council (See also the the account of this KGPM has 50,017 members in 176 THE KAMPUCHEA CHRISTIAN COUNCIL, church’s meeting on page 40.) parishes and about 100 ministers and formed by a number of different 1,697 lay workers. It runs several Cambodian Christian churches and Kerapatan Gereja Protestan Minahasa schools and is involved in some com- church-related organisations, is the KERAPATAN GEREJA PROTESTAN MINAHASA munity development works, especially only ecumenical body now function- (KGPM) or the Assembly of the Mina- in the area of home industry, credit ing in Cambodia. KCC was officially hasa Protestant Congregations was first union, agriculture and fishery. formed after adopting its constitution organised on 21 April 1933 as an in- on 6–7 August 1998 in Phnom Penh digenous church in the Minahasa area by representatives of different Cambo- of Indonesia. This church was founded dian churches and organisations that in the spirit of promoting a self-gov- had been associating with CCA and erning church by the local people, WCC for a number of years. which was free from the influence of Following its formal structure KCC the Dutch colonial government at that gained registration with the Ministry time. The Protestant Church in the of Religions Affairs of the Cambodian Netherlands Indies at that time was not Government. happy with this move. Churches/denominations members KGPM understands itself as a strug- of KCC are : gling church in hope. The overarching • Cambodian Baptist Convention, theme of KGPM is: ‘Christ in national- • Kampuchea Independent Churches, ism, nationalism in Christ’. It is be- • Cambodian Christian Youth Asso- lieved that Christ is the Lord of all ciation, nations and all creations. Historically, • France Methodist Church in Cam- this theme inspired and motivated the bodia, Christian reformers in Minahasa to be • Cambodian Methodist Church, involved in the struggle for independ- • Cambodian Church of Christ. ence and freedom of the nation. It is Altogether, there are about 15,000 believed that the indigenous people of Christians as members of these differ- Indonesia, with its different ethnic, ent denominations. cultures and religious backgrounds should walk and work together to- Igreja Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e wards a social transformation where ALTHOUGH GKTT had been a member of justice, peace and integrity of creation WCC since 1994, it was not a member will be fulfilled in Indonesia. This im- of CCA directly, although it was indi- plies that the church should work to- rectly through membership in PGI gether to express the unity of the from 1989 to 2000. Now that East church and to work with people of Timor has become an independent other faiths to address the crucial is- country IPTL has also become an in- sues in the community, especially dependent church. issues related to morality, law su- New members welcomed into membership

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 23 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Display showing locations of member churches and councils

Presidential thanks to Richard Siwu

Lunchtime recital

Informal disscussion in the outdoor dining area

Indonesian students tent at the back of the hall

Tight security for the presidential visit

Stewards helping with the documentation Traditional warriors at the opening ceremony

24 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 Towards New Thrusts and a New Structure for the CCA

Introduction cided that the proposals be discussed by the Constitu- tional Review Committee as well so that if agreeable they The following is the result of nearly three years of work could be incorporated in the proposals for constitutional and discussion at various levels and through various amendments to be brought to the General Assembly. The leadership bodies and appointed committees in the life Executive Committee was authorised by the General Com- of the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA). Noting the mittee to review the final proposals of the Ad Hoc Com- suggestions that were made by the Colombo Assembly mittee on Vision and Structure and endorse its in 1995 on matters related to ‘new thrusts and struc- presentation to member churches and councils and to ture’ for the CCA, the General Committee at its meeting the General Assembly after fulfilling all the requirements in Hong Kong in May 1997 set in motion a process of of constitutional provisions. With minor corrections, the ‘clustering’ the program work of the CCA. A year later at proposal was adopted by the 11th General Assembly in the meeting of the Executive Committee in Hong Kong in Tomohon on 1 June 2000. May 1998, an Ad Hoc Committee on Clustering was Feliciano V. Cariño formed to assess and consolidate the process of clus- tering that was already in motion, and to suggest, if ap- I. Enduring Vision, Abiding Mandates propriate, a possible revision of the program structure of the CCA. After several meetings and months of work, the Ad ‘Believing that the purpose of God for the church Hoc Committee on Clustering submitted a report to the in Asia is life together in a common obedience of General Committee at its meeting in Kerala, India, in witness to the mission of God in the world, the November 1998 that clearly indicated a need for a more CCA exists as an organ and a forum of continuing encompassing review of ‘vision and structure’ and the cooperation among churches and national Chris- imperative to develop more precisely a proposal for ‘new tian bodies in Asia within the framework of the thrusts and a new structure’ for the CCA that might be wider ecumenical movement.’ presented to the General Assembly for consideration. With minor modifications, the General Committee Over forty years since the Christian Conference of Asia adopted the proposals of the Ad Hoc Committee on Clus- (CCA) was constituted in Prapat, Indonesia, these words tering and appointed an Ad Hoc Committee on Vision that now appear as the opening lines of its ‘purpose’ and Structure to prepare a more specific proposal that have defined the basis on which it was founded and the could be presented for the consideration of the General vision towards which its whole life and work moves. The Assembly. The General Committee also instructed staff salient points and constitutive elements of this vision to circulate the proposal to member churches and coun- are clear. First, it is of and for life of the church in cils for their initial comment and reactions, and asked Asia that is lived and shared together. Second, it is of the Ad Hoc Committee on Vision and Structure to bear and for the mission of the church in Asia that is not its such comments and reactions in mind in drafting their own but one that is of God and is therefore grounded final proposal. Because the proposals required some in acknowledgment of and engagement in a common constitutional amendments, the General Committee de- obedience of witness to God’s mission. Third, the CCA is

SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 (i) TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

servant of this vision of the church and exists as an crucial issues of economic, social and political life, organ and a forum of continuing cooperation among and in developing ways by which the churches in co- churches and national Christian bodies. Fourth, in its operation with each other and with others in society service to the churches and Christian bodies in Asia, the can express responsibility in regard to these issues CCA is to live and work within the framework of the of common life. wider ecumenical movement. And fifth, in its effort to manifest common obedience and life together, it is to D. Its mandate, finally, involves a regional and a contex- seek to bring about the equal participation of women, tual task. It is to encourage and help develop Asian men, youth, clergy and laity in church and society. contributions to Christian thought, worship and ac- In the pursuit of this vision, it has laid down and de- tion throughout the world. More specifically, it is to veloped objectives that embody its abiding mandates. develop and promote relationships with peoples of On the one hand, these abiding mandates are essential other faiths in Asia and engage in dialogue with them to its ‘enduring vision’ and purpose; on the other, they concerning faith and the common life. Above all, it is are to provide openness and responsiveness to the to be in Asia, in other words, to be a regional ecu- changing and specific issues and challenges in the life menical organisation that is rooted in the life, the of the church and of society in Asia. The Colombo As- culture, the economic, social, and political realities sembly of the CCA (June 1995) stated these abiding of Asia, and the spiritual and theological gifts of the mandates in several clusters of objectives and functions. churches in Asia.

A. Basic to its mandate is the task of constantly posing II. Changing Realities: The Pressure for before the churches in Asia the issue of the unity of New Thrusts and Structure the church and of providing a vehicle by which this unity is manifested through joint action among them. Over the years, throughout its history, the CCA has tried A primary expression of this mandate is the task of to keep faith with this enduring vision, its abiding man- developing mutual awareness, fellowship and shar- dates and the tasks that these entail. Amidst changing ing among the churches in the region and promoting realities, conditions and capabilities, it has also embod- common study and action in fields of common inter- ied them in programs and structures that it has from est. time to time reviewed and changed. It is in fact an indi- cation of its dynamism and its effort to be responsive to B. A second dimension of its mandate is the task of help- the times that in its brief history of just over forty years, ing to enable and equip the churches and Christian it has many times reviewed and revised its programs and bodies in the region in their life and in their various adjusted its structure accordingly. Indeed, in nearly all ministries. The CCA is to assist in enabling and equip- of its assemblies since its founding in Prapat in 1957, ping individual Christians, churches and Christian beginning with its inaugural assembly in Kuala Lumpur communities to respond more fully to and fulfil God’s in 1959 to its last assembly in Colombo in 1995, some mission in the world. It is also to help in the devel- revision of program and structure, on many occasions opment of more effective Christian responses to very encompassing ones, have been undertaken. It has changing situations and issues in the life of church also revised its constitution many times. It amended its and society. original constitution in Singapore in 1973, where its name was changed from East Asia Christian Conference C. A third dimension of its mandate has to do with the (EACC) to CCA. It amended its constitution again in Seoul task of providing a vehicle for the development and in 1985. In 1995, in Colombo, it had an extraordinary engagement of the churches in ecumenical mission assembly to come up with a constitution that is almost and witness in the life of society. It is to help in pro- entirely new. It also received a proposal ‘Towards a New viding constructive and critical analytical insight into Thrust and Structure for the CCA’ that it asked to be tried

(ii) SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA and tested in the next five years so that it can be pre- 1. There are the fundamental and primordial rela- sented again at the assembly in the year 2000. As this tionships and communication with the member assembly comes upon us, drastically changing realities, churches and constituencies of ecumenical bod- conditions and challenges that impinge upon the life of ies. In the case of the CCA, this means a stronger the church and the ecumenical movement once again sense of involvement and participation of all of its put pressure upon the CCA to explore new thrusts and member councils and churches in its life and look at a new structure. These become even more chal- work. lenging as we face the pressure of a new century and a 2. There are the relationships and communication new millennium. The CCA is not alone in facing this pres- with a large number of organised manifestations sure. All over the ecumenical world, in regional, na- of various aspects of ecumenical life and work in tional and local councils of churches everywhere, the local, national, regional and world levels. The pressure is felt for review and renewal perhaps in a numbers and character of these organisations have manner that the modern ecumenical movement has not grown considerably since the first ecumenical felt before. This pressure comes from several inter-re- organisations were formed some fifty years ago. lated issues and areas of current ecumenical life that Relationships and communication with them have have become common in the life of ecumenical bodies become a much more complex and demanding everywhere: dimension of ecumenical life in recent years and more so in years to come. A. It comes first from the need and the imperative for a 3. There are the relationships and communication greater clarity concerning the program profile and with Christian churches and bodies that are pres- priorities of ecumenical bodies and how ownership ently not members of the established ecumenical of these are shared with and related to their respec- organisations. Of special note in this regard are tive members and constituencies. It is clear in the relationships with the Roman Catholic Church and experience of various ecumenical bodies that the with Evangelical and Pentecostal churches and need for and the process of review of programs and groups. structure are not a matter of technical or managerial 4. There are the relationships with secular or non- adjustments primarily. It involves a deeper and more church bodies, e.g. non-governmental organisa- comprehensive process of identifying needs, perspec- tions, that are engaged in similar work of social tives and priorities, and redefining roles and rela- engagement, and with whom or through whom tionships. It involves a more comprehensive process common work could be done. of projecting goals and visions not only of what needs to be done but also of what has been done elsewhere, It is in these contexts of relationships and the work and not only of who will do them but also with whom of communication that they require that ecumenical they will be done and how best they could be done. bodies are being asked to look at their program pro- This happens moreover in a situation where a wide files and priorities not only in relation to their re- variety of issues, challenges and relationships, both spective mandates but also to what each is to do in old and new, come upon the church and the ecu- the light of what the other is doing. This pressure of menical movement from nearly all directions and in relationships takes place precisely within a wide net- equally intense ways. work of churches, Christian bodies and other organi- sations locally, nationally, regionally, and worldwide B. It comes secondly from the increasing recognition that often work side-by-side each other and often of the centrality of relationships and communication cover similar if not identical grounds. The challenge as vital, if not constitutive, dimensions of ecumeni- of a more comprehensive and inclusive ecumenical cal life. This involves relationships and communica- fellowship that cuts across and involves wider areas tion at four important levels: of relationships and communication is what is in-

SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 (iii) TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

volved in this dimension of program and structure mous changes that are happening in the economic, review. social and political life of the world, in the life of the churches, and in the ecumenical situation itself. All C. The third is related to the second. It has to do with over the world, and in all aspects of life, the changes the increasing pressure of a shared ownership of the are not only astounding but are also happening at life and work of ecumenical bodies by their primary such a pace that put pressure on churches and ecu- members. It has become increasingly clear and menical bodies to constantly review programs, re- strongly noted that central to the issue of program flect and revise priorities, and respond to new and structure in the CCA is the issue of a shared own- challenges and realities. The ideological climate has ership of its program, activities and structure by its changed. New geopolitical and economic arrange- member churches and councils. This means above ments have emerged. The globalisation of life in all that program and structure must be geared to what various levels has happened in ways that are unprec- it means for the CCA ‘to grow together’ with its mem- edented and pose challenges to church and ecumeni- bers in Asia. Among many things, this involves a cal life that have not been faced before. A new world number of issues of critical importance for the im- of communication and information has emerged that mediate future: dazzles in its efficiency but is baffling and frightening in its consequences and threats to various levels of 1. It involves issues that have to do with developing human and international relations. There are emerg- a program profile and structure that are more ing new areas of international conflict and of war and relevant and responsive to the needs and priori- peace. The religious situation is no less perplexing ties of the churches and councils. In short, ecu- and challenging. There are new theological and spir- menical activities should not become ‘too itual movements both within and without the distanced’ from their ongoing life and concerns. churches, new religions or religious manifestations 2. It involves issues of effective and more meaning- in church and in society that exist side by side with ful participation of member churches and coun- the older and more established ones. All of these and cils in the processes by which programs are many more conditions of change are anticipated to determined and implemented. In this sense, pro- accelerate as the turn to the twenty-first century takes grams and structure of ecumenical bodies like the place, providing new opportunities but also new di- CCA should be set up in such a manner that they lemmas and threats to human life and social rela- do not serve and express only the needs and pri- tions. orities of particular churches or denominations but of as wide a spectrum as possible of all who E. A fifth common factor that in many ways underlies are members and constituents. all of the others is the receding financial and eco- 3. It involves very critical ecclesiological issues that nomic base of ecumenical life. There is in fact an have to do with the nature and authority of a coun- economic crisis that is happening all over the ecu- cil or a conference of churches and what may be menical world that is changing and imposing new im- properly done by them in relation to what the peratives of life and work for the ecumenical churches themselves do. When and in what man- movement. This crisis is borne by a number of eco- ner, for example, can a council of churches speak nomic realities that are part of the ecumenical situa- for the churches or do anything on their behalf? tion of our time: The issue is particularly sensitive and difficult where issues of doctrine and theology or of social 1. It is now clear that there is a recession of the sup- policy are involved. port for ecumenical life from the churches and related bodies in the ‘North’. It is equally clear D. The fourth is the pressure that comes from the enor- that this recession of ‘old’ sources is not tempo-

(iv) SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

rary. The recession in fact is not abating and there tively. Among others, this pressure means the follow- are no signs that it will subside in the foreseeable ing: future. Neither are new ones replacing the old sources of ecumenical support. This economic 1. Giving sharper focus to activities, and avoiding crisis in short is bound to get worse before it be- duplications. gins to get better. The times when we can say ‘sup- 2. Assigning tasks more precisely and obtaining the port is available if only we had the right programs greatest amount of productivity from the least de- and proposals’ are over. ployment of human and material resources. 2. In this context, the CCA and the ecumenical move- 3. Setting priorities among priorities. ment in general can no longer expect, especially 4. Looking for quality rather than quantity. in the long term, that the rich churches of the 5. In other words, to do less in order to do more. North will continue to be their main supporters. 3. At the same time, it is inconceivable and unrealis- III. Guidelines for Structure and tic to expect, especially in the short term, that the Organisation CCA and the ecumenical movement in Asia in their present form and structure can be supported en- Bearing in mind its enduring vision and abiding man- tirely by contributions from its member churches dates, and noting the changing realities that put pres- and councils and from alternative Asian sources sure upon its life, any program structure of the CCA must of support. be set up around the following guidelines and concerns: 4. Meanwhile, whether it is admitted or not, it is be- coming clear that the CCA and other ecumenical A. It should, firstly, be a program structure that pro- bodies do not receive the same level of serious vides space and enable ecumenical action and re- attention or priority that they once received. sponse to issues and priorities that are defined in 5. It has become imperative, as a result of all of these, relation to the concerns and needs of its member that some initial but clear and decisive move to churches, councils and other constituencies. The gradually wean the CCA as an expression of the program structure in short must combine the need ecumenical movement in Asia from its financial to be responsive to critical and dynamically chang- dependence upon supporting bodies from the ing issues and priorities and the constitutive demands ‘North’ must take place. Not only a theological and of responsible relationships and communication with cultural but also an economic transformation in its members. Some of the concerns, issues and pri- other words must take place in the life of the CCA orities around which it must orient its life, centre its so that it becomes more fully rooted in the life of priorities and build its relationships in the coming the Asian churches and Christian bodies, not only years ahead include the following: in theological orientation and perspective but also in financial and material support. This has very 1. The concerns related to the ‘ownership’ of the significant structural consequences simply be- ecumenical movement in Asia. cause ecumenical structures in Asia, as in other 2. The concerns and issues related to the unity of parts of the Third World, have been ‘styled’ on Asian churches and of relationships with other the basis and presumption of the availability of Christian churches, bodies, traditions, and or- strong support from the North. Structural changes ganisations that are currently not members of are needed as the CCA moves away from this fi- the CCA, e.g. the Roman Catholic Church and the nancial dependence. Evangelical and Pentecostal churches and groups. F. Thus finally, and in the sixth place, there is the pres- 3. The issues posed by the religious situation of our sure to do things more efficiently and more effec- time, e.g. of religious plurality and the common

SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 (v) TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

life, of the new manifestations and roles of reli- other than in formal committees, task forces and gions in society, and the challenges of interreli- working groups. gious dialogue and ecumenism, and of Asian spirituality. D. It should, fourthly, be a program structure that must 4. The needs and concerns related to ecumenical be broad enough to embody ‘abiding mandates’ but formation and the training of ecumenical ena- open and flexible enough to accommodate changing blers. priorities, organisational needs and priorities, and 5. The need to recognise and deal with issues posed program emphases that may be undertaken in coop- by the diversity of Asian societies, cultures, eco- eration and collaboration with other ecumenical or- nomic and political structures and experiences ganisations, member churches and councils, and and religious traditions. A new style of program- other partner bodies. ming in short that embodies openness to diver- sity and plurality and flexibility to respond to E. On matters related to staff, it should, fifthly, be a pro- changing conditions. gram structure that is built around a small but com- 6. The needs of ‘subregional’ programs and em- petent staff that could work with and enable work in phases. a variety of fields. Versatility, both of mind and of ar- 7. The issues and concerns related to solidarity with eas of skill and interest, rather than specialisation struggling and suffering people, the poor, the op- must be given priority. pressed and the marginalised. 8. The issues related to the promotion of a more F. In all of these finally, both structure and staff that ‘inclusive community’ and the empowerment of operates it should embody a ‘new style of work’ that women and youth. avoids duplication, enhances collaboration, joint 9. The issues posed by ‘globalisation’ and the emer- work and networking, and enables the widest par- gence of ‘global’ community and communication ticipation and involvement of the CCA’s constituen- in its economic, social, political and cultural as- cies. Both structure and staff in this sense must be pects. inclined towards a greater and more intentional in- 10. The concerns related to the need for ‘study and volvement of the member churches and councils and research’ in the ecumenical movement must elicit their assistance and more direct partici- 11. The issues related to education in church and pation in the carrying out of programs and activities. society. 12. The need for the development and promotion of IV. Actions Asian arts and culture. In light of all of these, the 11th General Assembly 2000 B. It should, secondly, be a program structure that is takes the following actions: cost and economics conscious. Even ‘visions’ and priorities, in other words, must be placed side by A. Program Structure side immediately with a ‘budget’ and the capabilities A program structure is herewith presented that has that are available to attain them. Increasingly, this the following characteristics in comparison to the ‘cost and economics consciousness’ must be geared previous one: to what is available from Asian sources. 1. Maintaining the same accountability to member C. It should, thirdly, be a program structure that is more churches and councils through the General As- modest and simple than the previous one at the same sembly, General Committee and Executive Com- time that it can enable wider participation of people mittee, the present structure reduces the program from member churches and councils in activities committees to three from the previous nine pro-

(vi) SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

gram committees and six working groups and task 6. The new program structure is diagrammed and forces. The three program area committees over- summarised in Appendix 1. see and supervise work in the three ‘program ar- 7. It is agreed that this proposed program structure eas’ that are embodied in the abiding mandates of be adopted for implementation. the CCA: a. Faith, Mission and Unity B. Constitutional Amendments b. Justice, International Affairs, Development and Service Further, that in order for the new program structure c. Ecumenical Formation, Gender Justice and to be implemented the following amendments to the Youth Empowerment CCA Constitution and Rules and Regulations are 2. Each program area however is broad enough to adopted: accommodate within it a wide variety of issues and program activities, and adopt as the need arises 1. An amendment to Article 9 of the Constitution and new or changing emphases. its three subsections in such a manner that would 3. Each program area will have a program area com- incorporate the following points: mittee of not less than twelve members. Each ‘pro- a. That the names and numbers of the commit- gram field’ is to be staffed initially by two executive tees should not be listed so that a greater flex- staff persons and one administrative staff person, ibility is provided for in the numbers and areas with flexibility to employ others, e.g. consultants, of concern of the committees. technical and program assistants with varying b. That while it is normally the General Assembly terms of service, whenever there is need and re- that appoints the program committees, provi- sources to support them. sion should be made for the General Commit- 4. These three program areas revolve administra- tee to make changes if necessary in between tively around the General Secretariat which will meetings of the Assembly. be responsible for general administration, finance c. That the composition of the committees is ad- management, coordination, relationships and justed accordingly as needs and priorities are communication. The General Secretariat will determined. be made up of the General Secretary and two As- d. Underlying all of these is the basic principle of sociate General Secretaries. One Associate Gen- providing a greater degree of flexibility in the eral Secretary is for Finance. In view of the determination of program committees and sim- importance of communication and relationships plifying the process of changing them in re- that have been stressed above, it is recommended sponse to changing conditions, priorities, that the second Associate General Secretary should resources and capabilities. be an Associate General Secretary for Communi- 2. An amendment to Article 12.1 and related provi- cation and Relationships. It is understood in this sions of the Rules and Regulations so that work recommendation that the task of program and related to Communication and Relationships be administrative coordination is already and will be included in the duties and responsibilities of the the responsibility of the General Secretary. Two General Secretariat. administrative staff, one assistant accountant, and one receptionist/messenger will assist the General The final wording of the proposed amendments Secretariat. The Executive Committee will serve as were drafted in consultation with the Constitutional the committee for the General Secretariat. Review Committee and other parts of the Consti- 5. The structure is conceived flexibly so that its staff tution and Rules and Regulations were revised ac- complement can be reduced or increased as nec- cordingly in the light of these amendments. essary. Tomohon, 1 June 2000

SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 (vii) TOWARDS NEW THRUSTS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR THE CCA

Appendix 1: CCA Program Structure

Faith, Mission and Unity Justice, International Affairs, Issues: Mission and Development and Service Evangelism, Theology, Issues: International Relations, Spirituality, Religions, Human Rights, Development and Christian Unity, Dialogue, Service, Indochina Concerns, URM Concerns Migration, Refugees

General Secretariat General Administration, Finance, Coordination, Relationships, Communication

Ecumenical Formation, Gender Justice and Youth Empowerment Issues: Education in Society, Ecumenical Formation, Youth, Women

Notes: I. Committees b. Two executive staff for Faith, Mission and Unity, one support/administrative staff a. Executive Committee will serve as committee for General Secretariat c. Two executive staff for Justice, International Affairs, Development and Service, plus one b. A program area committee of not less than twelve for Faith, Mission and Unity support/administrative staff c. A program area committee of not less than twelve for Justice, International Affairs, d. Two executive staff for Ecumenical Formation, Gender Justice and Youth Empowerment, Development and Service plus one support/administrative staff d. A program area committee of not less than twelve for Ecumenical Formation, Gender e. Four service staff: driver, caretaker, cook, ‘amah’ Justice and Youth Empowerment f. A total staff complement of nine executive staff, six support/administrative staff, one e. Total: Executive Committee of ten, plus three program area committees of not less than assistant accountant, four service staff for a total of twenty thirty-six g. Consultants, interns for programs may be hired as needed; support and service staff to be II. Staff increased or reduced as necessary. a. Three executive staff for General Secretariat, and two support/administrative staff, one assistant accountant, one receptionist/messenger

Appendix 2: CCA Organisational Structure

Member Churches and Councils

General Assembly

General Committee

Executive Committee

Officers Finance Personnel Program Area Committee Committee Committees General Secretariat Faith, Justice, International Ecumenical Formation, Mission and Affairs, Development Gender Justice and Program Staff Unity and Service Youth Empowerment

(viii) SUPPLEMENT TO CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 CCA IN FOCUS Asia Conference of Theological Students The ecumenical movement in transition: concerns and challenges for a new generation

eventy students, theological fac- conference as full participants. Spon- ing over forty years later and called to ulty members and administra- sored by the Christian Conference of link ecumenical concerns with train- Stors, and ecumenical leaders Asia (CCA), planning and support of ing for the pastoral ministry and to participated in the Asia Conference of the conference was shared with the present ecumenical work as part of Theological Students (ACTS) that was Office of Ecumenical and Inter-reli- ‘being church’ and therefore part of held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Cen- gious Affairs of the Federation of Asian the work of those who serve the tre, Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, Ma- Bishops’ Conferences (FABC-OEIA) churches in various forms of ministry, laysia, on 14–19 August 2000 and the Council of Churches in Malay- ACTS 2000, as the conference was re- The participants came from nine- sia (CCM). CCM was the official host ferred to by one of its participants, met teen countries from all over Asia and of the Conference. A generous grant in plenaries and discussion groups several from Africa, the Pacific, Europe from the Council for World Mission that revolved around four major pres- and North America, and represented (CWM) assisted in covering the travel entations: the major theological schools of the of participants. • A presentation on the theme of the Protestant and Orthodox constituen- The last gathering of theological conference, ‘The Ecumenical Move- cies of the CCA. students called by CCA took place over ment in Transition: Concerns and Twelve Catholic students from forty years ago as part of one of the Challenges for a New Generation’, Catholic theological schools in Indo- preparatory meetings that led to the by Dr Konrad Raiser, the General nesia, Malaysia, India, Japan, Korea formation of the East Asia Christian Secretary of the World Council of and the Philippines also attended the Conference (EACC) in 1957. Gather- Churches.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 25 CCA IN FOCUS

• A presentation on ‘Theology and laysia, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, at the Ecumenical Life in a Global Era: Office of the Prime Minister in Putra- Concerns, Challenges and Coali- jaya during the conference. tions’ by Dr Damayanthi M.A. Niles of the Christianity in Asia Project of the University of Cambridge, UK. ACTS Speakers • A presentation on ‘The Challenges Prepare for the Day and Imperatives of Christian Unity Bishop Lawrence Thienchai, the Epis- towards the Twenty-first Century: copal Chair of the FABC’s Office of Ecu- Lessons and Perspectives’ by Fr Dr menical and Interreligious Affairs K.M. George, the Principal of the (OEIA), urged the delegates to prepare Orthodox Theological Seminary in for the day when they will be ‘at the Kottayam, India. forefront of your church’s activities, • A presentation on ‘God’s People especially in assisting in the evolution amidst All of God’s People: Ecu- of its theological thoughts and com- menism and the Challenge of Reli- mitments’. This, the bishop said, gious Plurality’ by Fr Thomas would be the ‘long-term effect’ of the Michel, Executive Secretary of the conference, which ‘aims to lay the FABC-OEIA and Secretary for Inter- foundation for the future’, and which Dr Feliciano Cariño religious Dialogue of the Jesuit Cu- Bishop Thienchai prays, ‘will see the ria in Rome. real and tangible beginnings of unity theological students who participated Students led the worship and Bible amongst all Christians in Asia’. in that conference have provided some study of the conference, and shared Quoting from Pope John Paul II’s of the more important leadership of national and subregional reports on Ut Unum Sint, Bishop Thienchai re- the ecumenical movement in Asia,’ he the ‘state of the oikoumene’ in group minded participants that the mandate continued. Thus, he hoped that the and plenary discussions. A welcome of the Lord that ‘they might be one’ present ACTS would ‘provide initiative message to the conference was given (John 17:20) ‘is the basis not only of towards the formation of networks of by Bishop Lawrence Thienchai, the the duty, but also the responsibility pastoral and theological work in the Episcopal Chair of FABC-OEIA, in before God of God’s people’ to foster region’ and that it would also ‘provide which he expressed the hope that the relationships across Christian denomi- occasion to engage theological stu- conference would ‘lay the foundations’ nations. How, then, can we remain di- dents towards the discussion and un- that will ‘see the real and tangible be- vided as Christians since ‘division derstanding of issues, concerns and ginnings of unity amongst all Christians openly contradicts the will of Christ’? perspectives of the ecumenical move- in Asia’. A welcome dinner hosted by Thienchai saw hope in efforts such as ment and to consider commitment to the CCM was attended by leaders and ACTS as ‘the little bit’ which each per- ecumenical life and thought in the re- representatives of the major church son can do to ‘help foster Christian gion and worldwide as a vital part of bodies and congregations in Kuala unity’. being Church in Asia’. Lumpur. Dr Raiser, Dr Feliciano V. Cariño, Building Networks Inclusiveness General Secretary of the CCA, Dr Dr Feliciano Cariño, the General Sec- ‘A commitment to inclusiveness and to Herman Shastri, General Secretary of retary of CCA, intimated that the last overcoming any form of discrimina- CCM, and Anthony Row, a lay leader of time ACTS was held, it was 1956, when tion’ will mark much of the ecumeni- the Methodist Church of Malaysia (one he himself was a participant as a stu- cal work of the new generation, of the new CCA Presidents), were re- dent of theology. ‘It is of great impor- asserted Dr Konrad Raiser, the Gen- ceived by the Prime Minister of Ma- tance to note that so many of the eral Secretary of the World Council of

26 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 CCA IN FOCUS

Churches, during his keynote address. crucial test’ of the ecumenical agenda went on to say that unfortunately re- He continued, ‘The effort to build in- would be how ‘the criterion of in- cent history has shown that ‘it is the clusive communities has been a clusiveness is being applied to the un- reasonable and peace-loving people distinctive feature of ecumenical dis- derstanding of Christian unity and who flee their homes and become refu- cussion with regard to the gender the inclusive scope of the ecumenical gees, often abandoning their posses- issue, the place of persons with dis- movement’. sions to the looters and scavengers. In abilities, the recognition of indigenous such conflicts, it is not the meek who cultures, etc.’ He raised a caution how- You Don’t Dialogue with Violent inherit the land, but the violent.’ ever and suggested that ‘with regard Criminals Fr Michel was quick to remind that to particular moral concerns, espe- How is dialogue possible in today’s ‘the vast majority of our neighbours, cially around human sexuality, the ecu- social climate? Christians pointedly whether they are Muslims, Hindus, menical discussion seems to touch ask, ‘How can you engage in dialogue Buddhists or Confucianists, want, just limits of its commitment to in- with people who are burning your as we do, peaceful, harmonious soci- clusiveness’. Raiser also pointed out churches, raping your sisters, massa- eties. They are not violent and they do another area which has been ‘contro- cring your villages and killing your not hate,’ he asserted, speaking from versially discussed’ namely, ‘the rela- clergy?’ ‘You don’t,’ asserted Fr Tho- his many years of personal engagement tionship with people of other faiths and mas Michel, in responding to ques- in interfaith work in nearly every coun- their place in the Christian under- tions raised during his address at try across the globe. ‘We do them an standing of God’s will for human soci- ACTS. Jesuit Father Michel, an inter- injustice when we say that Hindus are ety and history’. He suggested that ‘the nationally renowned scholar of Islam anti-Christian or that Muslims are vio- and proponent of interreligious dia- lence-prone, just as we know that oth- logue, then went on to say, ‘You don’t ers do us an injustice when they say dialogue with violent criminals, with that Christians are only interested in people who have given themselves over making converts and money.’ He, to hatred, just as St Paul did not dia- therefore, cautioned that we do not get logue with the fanatics and the mur- into some kind of ‘persecuted Chris- derers of Ephesus.’ Having analysed St tians’ complex, just because priests Paul’s two-year stopover at Ephesus have been killed or churches burned. as ‘raising the whole question of Moreover, he pointed out, ‘Christians interreligious dialogue for Christians’ are not always innocent victims, but Michel suggested that ‘dialogue pre- sometimes perpetrators of violence sumes good will and a certain level of towards other.’ Substantiating this, openness to others. You don’t dialogue Michel said that ‘if we include Ireland, with an angry mob. You try to avoid Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Rwanda and them, just as Paul avoided the mob by Chechnia, we must confess that it is staying out of the city centre in probably Christians who are world- Ephesus.’ wide the greatest perpetrators of vio- The very down-to-earth and prag- lence towards the followers of other matic Michel suggested that when the religious groups.’ streets are filled with young men Fr Michel challenged the delegates armed with heavy weapons, ‘you don’t to ‘dreaming’ and ‘having a vision of engage in dialogue’. Instead, ‘you the future’. For, Michel adds, ‘Those gather your children and whatever who don’t have a vision of the future possessions you can carry on your become passive victims of history, not Dr Konrad Raiser back and you flee the area’. He then its shapers.’

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 27 CCA IN FOCUS Climate Change in Asia Seeking a spiritual commitment to ecological balance

piritual decline is a major fac- Steigerwald, representing the World The consultation urged churches to tor in ecological imbalance in Council of Churches Climate Change observe one Sunday a year as ‘Eco- SAsia, according to a recent in- Program, also participated. Sunday’ and urged people of other ternational interreligious meeting. The Participants voiced concern over religions to dedicate one day as ‘Envi- consultation, ‘A Religious Response to the exploitation of Asia’s natural re- ronment Day’. Climate Change in Asia’, was held 11– sources for the benefit of a few indus- It recommended educating students 15 July at the Ecumenical Christian trialised nations and ‘the consumerist on environmental concerns and noted Centre in Bangalore, India. and highly polluting lifestyles of peo- that the media have a vital role to play The participants at the conference ples of developed countries’. in creating awareness on ecological called on their religious followers ‘Climate change,’ they asserted, ‘is issues. worldwide to reject consumerism. ‘Cli- as much an issue of inequality in pat- The participants affirmed that the mate change is as much an issue of terns of trade and consumption as it consultation helped them move ‘one diminishing spirituality as it is an is- is an issue of increase of greenhouse step forward in seeking in each of our sue of pollution, deforestation and de- gas emissions.’ various faiths the ethical and spiritual pletion of natural resources,’ the thirty They also called for transformation paradigm which will guide and em- Christian, Buddhist and Muslim par- of ‘the individualistic-consumerist psy- power our united ecological endeav- ticipants said in their final statement. che into an ecologically sensitive and our’. The consultation, organised by CCA socially responsive spirituality’. Exploring indigenous wisdom and in collaboration with the Ecumenical The conference recommended that other models of development ‘is far Christian Centre, drew participants by adopting the principles of simplic- more eco-sustainable than what is be- from Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, ity and harmony taught by various ing endorsed and imposed upon our the Philippines, South Korea, Sri faiths, ‘we can set ourselves free from countries through unequal treaties by Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand. Elias the market-driven impulse to consume big powerful developed countries,’ Crisostomo Abramides and Jutta and exploit nature’. they said. →

28 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 CCA IN FOCUS National Workshop on Gender Awareness and HIV/AIDS

he Kampuchea Council of and related topics. They were led by • sexual dimension of our experience Churches sponsored a national Pastor Corazon Tabing-Reyes from CCA • experience of HIV/AIDS and the T workshop on Gender Aware- and Dr Erlinda Senturias, with the help experience of faith ness and HIV/AIDS on 22–25 August of Rev. Smak Sotheara, KCC General • sharing messages to others 2000 held at the Ecumenical Centre in Secretary, as translator. However, as Daily worship was led by Pastor Ngeth Phnom Penh. It was attended by fifty- the group moved from one topic to Sambo, Pastor Eang Sun Heng and two participants—twenty-nine women another, a more relaxed atmosphere Pastor Oum Sovy, with the young peo- and twenty-three men. There were was fostered and openness to new ple leading in the singspiration. seven male pastors, three female pas- learning paved its way. During the evaluation, a participant tors, five laymen, fifteen laywomen, Topics included: said, ‘I may not understand 100 per twelve male youth and ten female • gender dynamics: differentiating cent of what we studied here. Only youth. The workshop was an effort of sex from gender, sex roles from around 50 per cent. I may not be able KCC to address the resistance to gender roles, to organise a workshop like this but I changes in gender relations amidst the • agencies that genderise roles, will preach and do Bible studies on socioeconomic change that is bring- • impact of gender stereotyping on these topics.’ ing new opportunities to Cambodians, daily lives: gender issues, Rev. Smak plans to translate the and the peril of a rapidly increasing • Bible study on partnership of modules to Khmer for their use as they incidence of HIV/AIDS in recent years. women and men in community will continue to study these topics in Gender is a new concept! And to (Genesis 1:26–28), their local churches. talk about sex is a taboo! Understand- • strategy for building inclusive com- Hopefully, with these new evange- ing of HIV/AIDS is highly clouded! It munity, lists of KCC, the church can affirm its was certainly a challenging experience • breaking the barrier of gender message of partnership of women and for the participants, who came from stereotyping (through stories of the men in inclusive community and help Phnom Penh and different provinces Syro-Phoenician woman from the young people make informed deci- of Cambodia, to struggle with under- Bible, from Uganda and from Thai- sions about relationships. standing gender dynamics, HIV/AIDS land), Corazon Tabing-Reyes

The consultation urged people of ‘The pollution of the atmosphere tions’ of climate change are ‘a matter all religions to respond to the climate and its consequent global warming and of justice, equity and love,’ he said. change issue by first repenting for de- climate change are one of the greatest Prawate Khid-arn from CCA said structive attitudes toward nature and risks challenging the continuity of life that CCA had organised the conference fellow beings. on earth.’ to raise awareness on climate change, Elias Crisostomo Abramides, a re- According to Abramides, the solu- encourage people to do something source person from Argentina, ex- tion to harmful climate change will about it and help create environmen- plained during the consultation how involve ethics and religion as well as tally sensitive religious communities in climate change is a threat to God’s politics and economics. The ‘intimate Asia. creation. ethical and deeply religious implica- Philip Mathew

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 29 ASIA SCENE Deep Concerns Member councils respond to disturbing events in Asia

number of member councils of the Christian Churches in India and the Catholic Bishops’ Confer- Conference of Asia have issued statements of ence of India on atrocities against Christians and A their concern at recent events in Asia. other minorities. • Indonesia A statement from the Communion of • Sri Lanka A statement of the National Christian Churches in Indonesia and a letter to the President Council of Sri Lanka on the constitution-making of Indonesia from the National Christian Council in process. Japan regarding the human tradgedy in Maluku. • Korea A prayer for peaceful reunification from the • The Philippines A statement from the National National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) and Council of Churches in the Philippines denouncing the Korean Christians Federation (KCF), and a re- violence in that country. port of a visit to North Korea from the Hong Kong • India A statement from the National Council of Christian Council

Statement of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia on the Maluku Human Tragedy

Addressed to: flict in Maluku. The latest one, which • At the moment this statement was • the Government of the Republic is now being carried out, is the state being made, we received a report of Indonesia, of civil emergency since 27 June 2000. that Waai, a Christian village of • churches and Christians in However, this effort has not brought Salahutu District, Ambon, was be- Indonesia, about any solution. On the contrary the ing destroyed by mortar bombs and • world ecumenical bodies, situation continues to deteriorate and fire arrows. Hundreds of people’s • the United Nations. has reached the very worst and is houses, the two church buildings threatening the very existence of the (Protestant and Roman Catholic), ON BEHALF OF THE WHOLE CHRISTIAN COM- Christian community in Maluku. It in- the elementary and secondary MUNITY IN INDONESIA, the Executive cludes wide social and political impli- school buildings, the village clinic Board of the Communion of Churches cations for the continuation of the and the police resident complex in Indonesia expresses its utmost deep process of reformation and the exist- were all destroyed. The Security concern on the human tragedy which ence of the unitary Republic of Indo- Forces could not enter the area has been happening and has at the mo- nesia. because they were blocked by the ment developed to a level of a crime Some of the facts which indicate so-called ‘white group’. against humanity. that the state of civil emergency is not • At the moment this draft statement Various approaches and efforts effectively stopping the violence in was being typed, at 19.30 (Indone- have been made to overcome the con- Maluku are as follows: sian Western Time), we received an

30 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE

SOS call from the PGI Representa- The attacks targeted at the Chris- religious, racial and social groups, tive of Maluku, the Amboina Epis- tian communities in Maluku have which is an absolute necessity for copate (Episcopacy), the PGPI and caused the loss of human lives, prop- the rising of the country from its PII, to evacuate all Christians from erties and social relationships. fall. Maluku for security reasons. There are indications that this • We demand that all forms of vio- • The shootings by snipers of civil- movement will continue with the goal lence be stopped immediately, that ians, including women and chil- to eradicate the presence of Christians the actors, such as the jihad troops, dren, resulted in tens dead and and the church in Maluku, which is be arrested and expelled from the injured one of the oldest churches in Asia. areas of conflict (Maluku and North • On 4 July 2000 from 05.00 to 14.00 These facts have strongly bothered and Maluku) and that external (Indonesian Eastern Time) an at- annoyed not only and particularly the rioters be prevented from entering tack was carried out by the ‘white Christians in Maluku but also the Maluku. group’ supported by TNI/POLRI whole Indonesian Christian people in • We demand that the Government indisplinaries and has scorched to general. (of Indonesia) take concrete steps the earth the Christian housing Based on the above, we have taken to discipline members of TNI/ complex in the villages of Wailela, the standpoints as follows: POLRI who take sides with the con- Rumah Tiga and Poka, including • As an integral part of the people of flicting parties. the Pattimura University. Indonesia we, PGI (the Indonesian • We call on world Christian • Just before this statement was go- Communion of Churches), organisations (World Council of ing to be released, we were still re- which covers seventy-six synods of Churches, World Alliance of Re- ceiving information telling that a churches in Indonesia with tens of formed Churches, Lutheran Church number of villages and Christian millions of members, plead to the World Federation, the Catholic communities were under a threat people of Indonesia to see the Church etc.) to demand the Govern- of being scorched. Maluku tragedy as a national prob- ment of Indonesia and the United Taking the facts and data, described lem that could threaten the unity Nations to ensure the right to life above, and events before the imple- and coherence of the people of In- of Indonesian Christians in accord- mentation of the civil emergency into donesia. ance with the Universal Declaration account, we conclude the following: • We express the solidarity of all of Human Rights of the United Na- • The communities in Maluku, Chris- churches in Indonesia and their tions. tian as well as Muslim, have been church members with the whole • We call upon the United Nations and the victims of a conflict of the po- community in Maluku, who suffer the Government of Indonesia to litical elite who manipulate reli- very deeply, with those still hang- jointly watch and monitor the im- gious sentiments. ing on to their places or those who plementation of the state of civil • The escalation and spreading of were forced to flee their homes and emergency in Maluku to prevent violence against humanity, in spite villages and run into the mountains further annihilation of human be- of the civil emergency implemen- and forests or to the other islands. ings in Maluku. tation, was a direct result of the We call on all Christians in Indo- coming of jihad troops into Maluku nesia to directly show their solidar- Jakarta, 8 July 2000 under the support of the TNI/POLRI ity in the form of prayers and visible indisplinaries. So, not only were the actions with the communities in The Communion of Churches in reconciliation efforts which had Maluku who are the victims of in- Indonesia been made before being disrupted, justice. Rev. Dr Natan Setiabudi, General but also such efforts are barred • With this Christian solidarity, we ask Chairman and rendered meaningless in the all to strengthen the national unity Rev. Dr Richard M. Daulay, Vice present condition. of Indonesia, comprising all ethnic, General Secretary

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 31 ASIA SCENE

A Human Tragedy: A Letter to the President of Indonesia from National Christian Council in Japan

Mr President Abdurrahman Wahid into Maluku with the support of the Maluku) and that external riot- The Republic of Indonesia TNI/POLRI indisciplinaries. Hatred ers be prevented from entering Letter of Request on Maluku Human breeds hatred, and retaliation Maluku. Tragedy breeds retaliation. The communities in • That the Government (of Indone- Maluku, Christian as well as Muslim, sia) take concrete steps to disci- Dear Mr President Abdurrahman have been the victims of a conflict pline members of TNI/POLRI who Wahid: among political groups who manipu- take sides with the conflicting par- ON BEHALF OF THE NATIONAL CHRISTIAN late and abuse religious sentiments. ties. COUNCIL IN JAPAN, we express our deep- On the occasion of the General As- • That humanitarian assistance be est sadness and utmost concern about sembly of the Christian Conference given to all members of the com- the human tragedy that has been hap- of Asia (CCA), which was held in munities in Maluku, who are suf- pening as a result of ‘religious con- Tomohon, Minahasa, 1–6 June 2000, fering so deeply—to those injured flict’ in the Maluku islands since we were moved, as participants, by and still hanging on to their places January 1999. According to newspa- your speech and appeal for ‘reconcili- of residence as well as to the dis- per and other sources, it is said that ation and peace’ when you referred to placed who have been forced to flee 3,000 to 4,000 people have been the ‘religious conflict’ in the Maluku their homes and villages and run killed, even more have been injured islands. into the mountains and forests or and many people have lost their homes We request the following in hope to other islands. and become displaced persons. It is and with prayers that you will bring • That the Government of Indonesia also reported that the situation con- true reconciliation and peace to the watch and monitor the implemen- tinues to deteriorate in spite of the people in the Maluku islands. We tation of the state of civil emergency state of civil emergency that has been would appreciate your consideration in Maluku to prevent human rights imposed on the Maluku islands since and appropriate actions on the follow- violations and any further annihi- 27 June 2000. ing urgent requests: lation of human beings in Maluku. We cannot help but judge that the • That all forms of violence be escalation and spreading of violence stopped immediately, that the ac- National Christian Council in Japan against humanity, in spite of the civil tors, such as the jihad troops, be (NCCJ) emergency implementation, is a direct arrested and expelled from the ar- Ms Suzuki Reiko, Moderator result of the coming of Jihad troops eas of conflict (Maluku and North Rev. Otsu Kenichi, General Secretary

Outrage in the Philippines

THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES IN THE Monday of thousands of protesters as cheon-wielding anti-riot policemen PHILIPPINES (NCCP), a conciliar body of President Joseph Estrada delivered his driving away groups of flag- and eleven member churches and ten as- third State of the Nation Address streamer-bearing protesters peacefully sociate member service-oriented or- (SONA) before the joint session of the occupying the outermost lane of the ganisations, denounces with extreme 11th Congress. The waves of violent avenue leading to the Batasan. While infuriation the violent dispersal last dispersal showed phalanxes of trun- still under negotiation, the ground

32 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE

commander rallied his men to dis- of the society. We, in the NCCP, are sad- the Commission on Human Rights. perse the crowd. Protesters scampered dened by such acts of violence. In a They who are supposed to guard the away for safety as police in full riot democratic society, as government safety and security of the citizens must gear gave chase. Policemen started leaders thus claim, citizens have the be held responsible for the injuries beating the protesters, even those who right to assemble and call for a redress sustained by the victims. were on the ground and who were not of grievances. We find it difficult to We enjoin our NCCP constituency fighting back. Television footage understand why the powers and prin- not to let their guard down. We call showed a cornered protester who was cipalities in this country have drawn on them to pray unceasingly for the repeatedly hit on the head with trun- the mantle of violence to quell legiti- sorry state of our nation. But let our cheons as police dragged him a way mate expression of the people’s right supplications be accompanied with bloodied. to call their government officials to vigilant actions that will ensure peace We take issue with the pronounce- task. We condemn the use of state vio- and justice in our land. As we have ments of the military and media that lence at the protesters who were exer- opportunity, let us challenge our gov- the church people at the mobilisation cising their constitutional right to ernment officials to listen to the cry of were impostors. They were sisters, peacefully assemble in order to show, the poor and the oppressed whom Je- priests, pastors, seminarians and lay what for them, was the real state of the sus came for. leaders who were impelled by their nation. The PNP’s overreaction to the Christian faith to express their pasto- situation and the policemen’s aggres- Sharon Rose Joy Ruiz-Duremdes ral care for the marginalised sectors sive behaviour must be investigated by General Secretary, NCCP

The Nagpur Statement of the Churches in India

THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES IN Parishad which was announced of India at the NCCI Campus, have INDIA AND THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFER- even without consulting the CBCI taken a serious and a close look at ENCE OF INDIA jointly convened a Church and the NCCI to have taken place the continued atrocities against the Leader’s Meeting on the 11 July 2000 today, 11 July 2000. churches, dalits and other minorities. at the NCCI Campus, Nagpur. Forty- • To work out strategies to put for- Having analysed the facts and having eight delegates representing the ward the official standpoint of the discerned serious threats to the demo- twenty-nine member churches of the churches in India, including the cratic, secular fabric of our nation, we NCCI and the Catholic Bishops’ Con- CBCI and NCCI member churches. make the following statement, herein- ference of India participated in the • To rededicate and recommit the after referred to as the Nagpur State- meeting. It was called to discuss the churches to struggle for the life is- ment of the Churches in India. following issues: sues for the poor, the marginalised We re-affirm the fact of history • To take stock of the present situa- and the excluded and to serve hu- that we are a religion which is 1,950 tion of atrocities against Christians manity. years old in India. In these years we and other minorities in order to have not only respected other faiths in forge a united strategy for action as The Nagpur Statement of the Churches our country but have also adhered to response. in India the democratic principles of mutual • To clearly state the stand of the We, the Leaders of the Indian respect and coexistence with them. churches in India vis-à-vis the fun- churches, at a meeting at Nagpur on The churches in India have always damentalist outfits of the country. 11 July 2000 jointly convened by the upheld and abided by the principles • To discuss the alleged dialogue with National Council of Churches in India of dialogue with people of other faiths Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu and the Catholic Bishops Conference in this land, which has served as the

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 33 ASIA SCENE

cradle of ancient civilisations and ma- We discern that violence against acts as merely problems of law and jor religions of the world. the minorities and the poor is the order. We re-affirm that we have always handiwork of a fundamentalist ideol- We discern that the present envi- identified ourselves with the poorest ogy which is based on intolerance, ronment is not conducive to serious of the poor in our country and have cultural exclusivism and domination. dialogue with fundamentalist groups. served the nation in the fields of edu- The atrocities against Christians and We appreciate and acknowledge the cation, health, poverty alleviation pro- other minorities and the call for de- solidarity shown by the majority of the grams, emergency relief, gender and bates on conversions have marked the Hindu community and other minority social justice programs for the dalits ascendancy of the fundamentalist communities who have extended their and tribals, and have also contributed forces. There has been a serious de- support, solidarity and understanding. to the development of literature and sign to communalise the political The hate literature produced by the grammar of several Indian languages. processes. We also see the unhealthy fundamentalist forces points to their Our actions speak louder than words. nexus between political parties and intentions and methods. Their rheto- We have furthermore worked selflessly right-wing formations which has re- ric of cultural nationalism through the towards the eradication of child labour sulted in the empowerment of the fun- process of intimidation exposes their and promoted ecological conscious- damentalists, as well as the increase agenda. ness and other emancipatory pro- in intimidation, organised violence We demand that: grams. In all this we have contributed and hate campaigns against the mi- • the government undertake meas- to the task of nation building. In spite norities. The recent utterances by sev- ures to instil confidence in the of the fact that we are a meagre 2.5 eral fundamentalist religious leaders minds of the minorities in handling per cent of the entire population we have heralded a new form of violence the situation arising out of the con- have contributed much through our against Christian and minorities. We tinued attacks, service. also discern with alarm the increased • the government take immediate We re-affirm that our numerical intimidation of the minorities through measures to stop the violence strength has remained below 2.5 per the use of bombs, giving the criminals against Christians, minorities and cent of the entire population, which a degree of invisibility and legitimacy other weaker sections and that the disproves the malicious theories of thus widening the scope and range of criminal acts over the past many forced or coercive conversion raised attack. months, including the recent bomb against us. What we have achieved We discern that the state has re- blasts in the churches, should be through the programs of service and sponded very feebly to the demands investigated immediately, proclamation is the emancipation and of the minorities for justice, protec- • the government ban organisations the empowerment of the socially op- tion and security. The past thirty with overt communal leanings, es- pressed, the marginalised and the ex- months have witnessed several hun- pecially those involved in violence, cluded in society, and their liberation dred criminal cases ranging from • the government immediately bring from an evil caste system which dis- rape, loot, arson, bombing, murder, the hate campaigners to book by criminates against dalits and tribals. molestation and exhumation of graves initiating legal proceedings, The task of the churches has always to the desecration of places of wor- • the government take stern steps to been to be obedient to Christ’s calling ship. We are appalled at the way the bring the culprits to justice, regard- to empower and build communities cases have been handled and we are less of their political or other af- based on the values of love, justice and deeply disappointed to note that not filiations, peace, which are the fundamental pil- even one single case has been solved, • the government desist from utter- lars of the Christian faith. We affirm or the culprits brought to book. This ances regarding the issues of that our service to humanity is in obe- is a serious contradiction to the state- conversion as it is within the con- dience to Christ’s calling to affirm life ments made by several government stitutional and human rights/reli- in all its fullness to all people. officers and officials describing the gious liberty framework.

34 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE

We re-dedicate ourselves: cipation and empowerment of the spect and value the rights of all • to observe the dawn of the new mil- dalits, tribals and adivasis, human beings, lennium as the Year of the Lord and • to continue to be involved in serv- • to act unitedly to affirm and safe- proclaim the jubilee to the captives ice and proclamation, recognising guard our unity and ecumenical in all kinds of bondage, and upholding the values of free commitment. • to continue to serve the poor and choice for all individuals and to We call upon all secular and demo- the marginalised with greater com- desist from any form of forced and cratic forces to unite in the common mitment and to place more of our coercive conversion, struggle against forces of fundamen- resources at the service of the poor, • to continue dialogue with repre- talism and subjugation. • to continue to work for the eman- sentatives of other faiths who re- Endorsed by forty-four participants.

Statement of the National Christian Council of Sri Lanka on the Constitution-making Process

THE NATIONAL CHRISTIAN COUNCIL [of Sri time provided by the delay can be It is vital that the dialogue between Lanka] views the recent setback in the viewed in a positive light. the People’s Alliance, the United Na- process of constitutional reform with The National Christian Council has tional Party, Tamil political parties and mixed feelings. consistently advocated a political so- other leaders of our community con- While it recognises that the pro- lution to the ethnic conflict. The pro- tinues. posed new constitution [of Sri Lanka] posed new constitution enhanced the Sri Lanka badly needs a new con- is better than the present constitution, devolution of power, recognised that stitution which can promote peace, it has some reservations about the Sri Lanka was a multi-ethnic country, justice and democracy and ensure process by which it was to be adopted. strengthened the chapter on funda- unity and stability in the country. The government’s decision to post- mental rights and created a better sys- Rev. Roy Rebeira, Chairperson of pone the vote in parliament on the tem of checks and balances to promote NCC and President of the Dutch proposed new constitution must be good governance and democracy. Reformed Church viewed as an opportunity. While it is These positive features must be re- Rt Rev. Kenneth Fernando, Bishop vital that the consensus reached by the tained and, where necessary, further of Colombo two main political groupings in the improved. Rt Rev. Andrew Kumarage, Bishop country should not be diluted any fur- The acceptance of the principle of of Kurunegala ther, the space provided by the post- the supremacy of the constitution, the Rev. Duleep Fernando, President of ponement must be used to make introduction of comprehensive judi- the Methodist Church improvements to the draft. cial review of legislation, improving Rt Rev. S. Jebanesan, Bishop of the While the proposed new constitu- the provisions dealing with the inde- Church of South India in the Jaffna tion contains several improvements, pendence of the judiciary, the incor- Diocese there are significant deficiencies as poration of provisions to include Rev. Dr W.G. Wickramasinghe, well which need to be addressed. regional representation at the centre President of the Sri Lanka Baptist Furthermore, since there was a lack and a review of the transitional provi- Sangamaya of transparency in the constitution- sions which virtually extend the term Colonel Keith Wylie, Territorial making process and insufficient of office of the present president until Commander, Salvation Army opportunity and time for public dis- 2005, are some areas which need to Rev. George Stephen, Moderator of cussion on the draft, the additional be reviewed. the Presbytery of Lanka

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 35 ASIA SCENE

North and South Korea: 2000 Common Prayer for Peaceful Reunification

The National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) and the Korean Christians Federation (KCF) have jointly agreed on this prayer, which was read during Sunday worship on 13 August 2000

God of history, And in this work, O God, You have suffered and lamented with us in the pain of our Let the churches of the South and North/North and South people’s division. lead the way. As we look back over the fifty-five long years of tragic Loving God who remembers the ‘han’—the sorrow and separation, grief—of orphans We confess that we have not carried the cross of Jesus, And widows, The cross of our people’s salvation. And who breathes new life into the exhausted wanderers! Hear our prayer O God. We pray for our nation. Let not those with plenty withhold from those with little, O God who silently took up the cross for the salvation of Let not those in high places oppress the lowly, all the world! Let not the strong create fear for the weak, Let us not evade the heavy burden of our nation’s history. Let not the learned despise those who have had no chance O God who brought Jacob and Esau together again even to learn. after they lived estranged for so long Let us strive to live justly rather than to seek wealth, Through their own rivalry, deception, hatred and indiffer- Let us follow Jesus who bore the cross, and walk the way ence! of serving others. O God who allowed Joseph to once again meet his brothers, who, through envy and hatred, had sold him O God who does not forget even so small an act as giving over to the Egyptians! a cup of water to a nameless one, How long will we glare in hatred and aim our weapons of Fill our people with the spirit of loving others as we love destruction at our own brothers and sisters? ourselves. May we no longer each insist on our own right! Let our divided kin meet and help one another uncondi- May we no longer prattle the words of other nations! tionally Have mercy on us And work to achieve coexistence, coprosperity and our And let our people walk the way of forgiveness and common welfare under the banner of reunification. reconciliation. Help us to change old thinking that has taken root in our society and to cast off our long slavery to ideology. God who unites the divided! In this new millennium, this new era, Pour your spirit of reconciliation into our hearts. Let the sisters and brothers of South and North/North and Help us to give our every effort to overcome division and South become one. Embrace and share joy with one another, Make us the instruments of our own reunification And open wide the new day of peace and reunification. And let us tear down all material and spiritual walls that divide us We pray in the name of Jesus Christ And replenish the earth destroyed by explosives and Who nurtures the seed of our whole nation’s salvation, pollution. peace and reunification.

36 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE

Korean South–North Joint Declaration

Following is the text of the landmark Joint Declaration signed by South Korean President Kim Dae-jung and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in the North Korean capital Pyongyang on 15 June 2000

IN ACCORDANCE with the noble will of the entire people by separated family members and relatives on the oc- who yearn for the peaceful reunification of the nation, casion of the 15 August National Liberation Day and President Kim Dae-jung of the Republic of Korea and the question of unswerving Communists serving National Defence Commission Chairman Kim Jong-il of prison sentences in the South. the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea held a his- • The South and the North have agreed to consolidate toric meeting and summit talks in Pyongyang from 13 to mutual trust by promoting balanced development of 15 June 2000. The leaders of the South and the North, the national economy through economic cooperation recognising that the meeting and the summit talks were and by stimulating cooperation and exchanges in of great significance in promoting mutual understand- civic, cultural, sports, health, environmental and all ing, developing South–North relations and realising other fields. peaceful reunification, declared as follows: • The South and the North have agreed to hold a dia- • The South and the North have agreed to resolve the logue between relevant authorities in the near future question of reunification independently and through to implement the above agreements expeditiously. the joint efforts of the Korean people, who are the President Kim Dae-jung cordially invited National masters of the country. Defence Commission Chairman Kim Jong-il to visit • For the achievement of reunification, we have agreed Seoul, and Chairman Kim Jong-il will visit Seoul at that there is a common element in the South’s con- an appropriate time. cept of a confederation and the North’s formula for a loose form of federation. The South and the North Kim Dae-jung, President, Republic of Korea agreed to promote reunification in that direction. Kim Jong-il, Chairman, National Defence Commis- • The South and the North have agreed to promptly sion, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea resolve humanitarian issues such as exchange visits 15 June 2000

Memorable Visit to North Korea

THE FIRST VISIT to the Democratic Peo- been invited by the Korea Christian Pyongyang, with some 500 house ple’s Republic of [North] Korea by Federation (KCF)—the body that over- churches (family churches). He men- church leaders of the Hong Kong sees the work of the Christian church tioned that there were ten people Christian Council took place in July in North Korea. working through theological training this year. The delegates were Rev Li We were warmly welcomed by the and that there were now some 10,000 Ping-kwong, Chairman of the HKCC; president of the KCF, Rev. Kang Yong- Christians in North Korea. Elders Rev. Eric So, General Secretary, Rev. sop. He has held this position for fif- and deacons looked after the house Bob C.C. Lo, Dean of the Tsung Tsin teen years. Rev. Kang is also a member churches as there are very few or- Mission of Hong Kong, and Lt Col. Ian of the standing committee of the Peo- dained ministers. At a welcome din- Southwell, Officer Commanding, The ple’s Assembly. Rev. Kang told us that ner he commented very positively on Salvation Army, Hong Kong. We had there were two large churches in the contributions of Christians from

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 37 ASIA SCENE

other countries, including some from Medical centres also featured in In retrospect, we wondered if this South Korea and the USA. Rev. Kang our visits. We were impressed with the would also affect the orphanages to said the tour would give the delega- standard of care at the Pyongyang Ma- which powdered milk is sent from the tion an opportunity to understand the ternity Hospital. We learned that tri- Hong Kong Christian Council. political and cultural environment in plets and quadruplets were considered The stonework produced by the which the Christian church operated so valuable that national leadership country is excellent. Monuments and in North Korea. had decreed that multiple-birth chil- towers are well-constructed. Sadly, The visit certainly fulfilled its pur- dren should be brought in to the hos- stone and steel do not feed hungry pose, even though most of the excur- pital from outlying areas in the North people who have suffered from poor sions were in and around the capital Korea. harvests over the last three or four city. The Pyongyang Medical Centre years. There also seemed to be little We were delighted to see good fa- similarly had some good equipment activity in factories, or at the cargo cilities at a number of children’s cen- ,including a very expensive CAT scan delivery areas of the seaport of Pyong- tres. Young children often live at these machine. Other good equipment was yang, or the airport. Consumer goods centres from Monday through to Fri- available but seemed not to be con- were in short supply—and expensive. day. The deportment and musical skills nected to electrical power. Hard currency was eagerly sought. of these children had to be seen to be The visit to the Pyongyang city or- In what could have turned out to believed. In almost every instance, the phanage, however, was something of be a depressing visit, there were some complex music was played from a contrast. The standards of cleanli- encouraging highlights. We visited the memory by children as young as four ness and clothing were not as high and Mangyondae School Children’s Palace. or five years of age. They were su- the person in charge indicated her After-school activities here are pro- premely confident in front of an audi- hope that the Hong Kong Christian vided in music, art, TV production, ence and had been exceedingly well Council would be able to provide some electronics and gymnastics. Absolutely drilled. Subsequently, the group be- more powdered milk for the children. brilliant. The standard of the perform- came conscious that much of the edu- The group discovered that a number ance by young people under 15 years cation at these centres was linked to of sets of triplets and quadruplets from of age in a one-hour festival following the re-telling of the story of the nation the Maternity Hospital found their way our visit to the classrooms was equiva- from the birth of the great leader Kim to the orphanage because their parents lent to that of adult professionals. Simi- Il-sung in 1912. All good things in the found difficulty in coping with them. larly, the circus run by the People’s centres—and the very idea of the cen- Also there were children whose par- Army was a great display of gymnas- tres themselves—were attributed to ents had passed away due to diseases tics, clowns and animal acts. They the great leader. The stories of his such as tuberculosis or from the re- were highly disciplined and organised. birth, his exploits in freeing North sults of accidents. Twenty per cent of A visit to Myohyansan Mountain pro- Korea from the Japanese by 1945, and the children in the orphanage had no vided an opportunity to see some mag- the birth of his son, General Kim Jong- living parents. nificent scenery at the third most il—now the leader of the nation— The group was pleased to be able famous mountain in North Korea. were re-accounted again and again. to visit the Bongsu noodle factory While the purpose of the visit was The songs about the great leader were sponsored by KCF. About eight work- probably to introduce us to the Inter- as common as the songs about Jesus ers make noodles to assist the feeding national Friendship Exhibition display- Christ in Christian daycare centres in program within the community around ing the more than 200,000 gifts given other countries. The influence on the Bongsu. We were told that food pro- to the great leader and his successor, young children in understanding this duction was carefully monitored. If we were able to take in the scenery. At section of the history and philosophy Bongsu noodle factory was able to pro- least there were plenty of trees. The of the nation could not be overesti- duce food for some areas then the ra- nearby Ryongmun cavern provided mated. tion from the state would be reduced. opportunities to see some magnificent

38 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE stalactites and stalagmites during a ple. Rev Li Ping-kwong brought greet- All Christians are in different occupa- two-kilometre walk underground. Re- ings and presented the plaque to the tions and make their contribution alising that much of the tour was about church. The choir led the singing and there.’ ‘There are no baptism ceremo- ‘educating’ us, the group asked if we presented some solo items. We were nies held in the church.’ ‘Eucharist could visit some of the house churches provided with English/Korean hymn only takes place about four times a on Sunday and also the theological books printed in South Korea. Another year.’ ‘You have to understand the cir- school during the week. We were told book was used by the rest of the con- cumstances in which we work within that the house churches were not on gregation. The Bible message was the Juche principle.’ the schedule approved by the Execu- faithfully presented. Prayer was offered The Chilgol choir presented a tive Committee of KFC for our visit. To for the re-unification of the country in number of items including ‘How Great our surprise, we also discovered that terms of the recent Joint Declaration Thou Art’. Then our group was asked the theological school had actually following the leaders’ summit meeting to sing. We chose ‘What a Friend We ‘disappeared’ about two years ago be- between Kim Jong-il and Kim Dae-jung Have in Jesus’ and ‘Count Your Bless- cause of lack of finance. of South Korea. ings’. Members of the choir came to We were pleased to learn, however, Following the benediction, we were join us and we sang these two hymns. that a group of visitors from the South hurried off to the Chilgol church where It was moving. In music and song we Korean Churches was promising to the choir members and the pastor mutually re-affirmed our friendship raise money to help re-establish the were waiting to greet us. Our delega- with Jesus and that everything could theological school. tion was not surprised to learn that the be taken to him in prayer. If this is so, it would be a marvel- great leader had chosen the site of the My eyes were misty with tears and lous contribution. So will continued Chilgol church and the government there was a lump in my throat as we visits by church and community devel- provided half its funding. Unlike the sang the words: ‘So, amid the conflict opment groups. Bongsu church, we were able to ask whether great or small,/Do not be dis- The highlight for the group was the the pastor a number of questions. His heartened, God is over all;/Count your visit to Bongsu and Chilgol churches answers (via translation) were dis- many blessings, angels will attend,/ on Sunday. Probably 150 people at- turbing. ‘No, it is not possible for us Help and comfort give you to your jour- tended the morning service at Bongsu. to teach children the Christian mes- ney’s end.’ This included nationals and some visi- sage directly.’ ‘There is no particular And I made my own prayer that tors from overseas. Most of the peo- time for weekday Bible studies at the those words would be true for my fel- ple in church were between 30 and 60 church.’ ‘No, the church does not un- low believers in North Korea. years of age. There were no young peo- dertake any specific community work. Ian Southwell Don’t Miss Out on CCA News

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CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 39 ASIA SCENE Deliver My People Igreja Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e holds its third meeting

he Protestant Church in East Lorosa’e, but is the concrete act of God fields of the economy, education and Timor held its third meeting on amidst the journey and the struggle of health. Food distributions have been T 5–9 July 2000 under the theme, the people. stopped, although people still need ‘I have come down to deliver my peo- The church’s main issue at this such a distribution at least for the com- ple’ (Exodus 3:8a), and a subtheme: moment is ‘reconstruction’, which in- ing few months due to the heavy de- ‘With the spirit of the third meeting we cludes physical reconstruction (to struction of the agrarian infrastructure together build the a just and demo- rebuild the country that has been de- and the primary attention of people in cratic Timor Lorosa’e’. The name of stroyed), relational reconstruction (to building huts to live in. Many buffa- the church, established in 1988 as rebuild a new relationship among the los, which are very important in the Gereja Kristen Timor Timur (Christian people of Timor Lorosa’e) and cultural process of cultivating rice fields, were Church in East Timor), was officially reconstruction (to rediscover the cul- killed. The security situation has im- changed at this meeting to Igreja ture which had disappeared, been de- proved, but recently some militias Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e (IPTL, stroyed and ruined during the 450 tried to enter Timor Lorosa’e and Protestant Church in Timor Lorosa’e). years of Portuguese occupation and killed a few members of the peace The theme of the meeting reflected twenty-four years under Indonesian keeping force. the understanding of the church that invasion). The work of reconstruction The meeting also underlined the the freedom the country has gained is also includes a reconstruction of the importance of human resource devel- the response of God to the cry, prayer new understanding about the role of opment for future leadership. In and hope of the people in Timor the church in the new situation and the addition to the delegates of the con- Lorosa’e. This is to remind the new na- reconstruction of the economy of con- gregations, the meeting was also at- tion of Timor Lorosa’e that the free- gregations and society. tended by guests from neighbouring dom they attained was not merely due The main challenges confronting churches, such as the Evangelical to the effort of the people of Timor the people of Timor Lorosa’e are in the Christian Church in Timor (GMIT), the Uniting Church in Australia, NCC Aus- tralia and representatives from the Catholic Church Dilli diocese. The meeting elected a new leader- ship: Rev. Franscisco M. de Vascon- celos (Moderator), Rev. Luis A. Pinto (Vice Moderator), Rev. Daniel Marcal (Secretary), Guliherme dos Reis Fernandez (Vice Secretary), Rev. Moises da Silva (Treasurer), Sofyan (Vice Treasurer) and members Rev. Franzelino de Jesus, G.I. Luis Mendonca, Horacio Mendes (youth representative) and Zita Amaral (wom- en’s representative). Delegates of Igreja Protestante iha Timor Lorosa’e at the CCA General Assembly Franscisco M. de Vasconsales

40 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 ASIA SCENE Uniting Church in Australia Assembly

he Uniting Church in Australia bered as a mission assembly,’ said the Now it was in danger of being com- held its Assembly in Adelaide, new UCA President, James Haire. Dur- pletely wiped out. He described the TSouth Australia, in July. The As- ing the assembly the Uniting Church Malukus as a ‘paradise lost’. Austral- sembly meets every three years and is entered into partnership agreements ians had a special responsibility in this the main policy setting body for Aus- with four churches—the Cook Islands crisis, as Ambonese people had helped tralia’s third largest church. Topics on Christian Church and three Indonesian Australian soldiers in World War II. the agenda included reconciliation churches, in Minahasa in North Sula- On the Saturday afternoon after the (between the original inhabitants of wesi, and with the two Protestant assembly James Haire preached at a Australia and those who have settled churches of the Malukus, Ambon and service in the Port Adelaide Mission there in the last two centuries), the Halmahera. where the Ambonese community lit mandatory sentencing laws of some Agustinus Aesh, Chairman of the candles in memory of those who had Australian states, issues of sexuality in Gereja Masehi Injili Halmahera (the died. ‘In some cases it will be the only the church, and ecumenism (a decla- Protestant Church of Halmahera), memorial service these people will ration of understanding with the Lu- noted that his church had ordained have as in many cases their bodies theran Church was passed and much Prof. Haire. James Haire said that in have not been recovered,’ said Prof. work has been done together with the the last eighty years, the Protestant Haire. ‘And in this tragic situation it is Catholic church). Church in Halmahera had come to rep- almost impossible to hold a memorial ‘Assembly 2000 will be remem- resent 60 per cent of the population. service in Ambon itself.’ James Haire New UCA President rof. James Haire has been in ‘I challenge every Australian stalled as the national president church, and indeed every overseas Pof the Uniting Church in Aus- church: Ask no longer, “Is it safe to tralia. Professor Haire is well known move into serious unity negotiations?” in Asia. He was a UCA delegate at the Only ask: “Is it safe to stand before the recent CCA General Assembly and Lord separated from my sister or knows Indonesia well. brother?” Ask no longer: “Which During his induction he spoke on church do I belong to?” Only ask, the regional crisis engulfing many “Whose church do I belong to?”’ Asian and Pacific nations and Austral- James Haire was born and educated ia’s response. Professor Haire also issued a strong in Ireland. He worked in Indonesia for He said, ‘At this point in time each call on Australian churches to ‘get on’ thirteen years (the Mulukus—Ambon) faces the greatest crisis in their histo- with church unity: ‘I challenge us to- and has written the standard text on ries as independent nations. Particu- night to engage in the search for the religion and culture of the region. larly in relation to the Moluccas, it is Christian unity, not just with long-es- In Australia he has been Professor of absolutely the duty of the Australian tablished denominations, but with all New Testament theology at Griffith Uni- Government to do even more now, in groupings, in as determined a way as versity Theological College. Professor terms of international advocacy, hu- we can. Do we take Christian unity se- Haire’s perspective on Indonesian manitarian aid and the reception of riously? Will we give our all for its concerns is often sought by interna- refugees.’ achievement? tional radio and television.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 41 GLOBAL CURRENTS The Idolatry of Capital and the New Religion of Consumerism

hristians from many denomi- However, it added that the ‘theol- purpose and clarity’ between dis- nations made an appeal for al- ogy of grace’ had to be affirmed against persed ecumenical organisations. Cternatives to ‘globalised capi- a ‘theology of prosperity’. Christians, However, he added that the collo- talism’, alternatives to strengthen Muslims, Jews, Hindus and Buddhists quium was only one ‘step in the proc- democratic participation and ensure all held the same principles of ‘life- ess’, and would be followed up by survival of the poor and marginalised. centredness, respect for nature, option regional ecumenical networks in Af- These appeals were made at a for the poor and justice through shar- rica, Asia and Latin America. week-long colloquium, ‘Churches and ing and prophetic work’. In their declaration, participants Social Movements Facing Globalisa- ‘We are parts of creation, not gods. defined globalisation as ‘a variety of tion’, which ended on 16 June at the Therefore, we need democratic politi- phenomena, positive and negative’, Evangelical Academy in Hofgeismar, cal institutions and movements work- which had accelerated the ‘integration Germany, attended by over 150 theo- ing for the social responsibility of of financial markets’. logians, pastors, social activists, private property, for social justice and They added that globalisation had economists and environmentalists the preservation of nature,’ the decla- made financial capital the ‘leading ac- from forty countries. ration states. tor of the global economic process’. The participants urged churches to ‘We wish to continue to discern ‘In a world transformed into a glo- support a ‘global coalition for eco- common reflection and action on our bal casino, life has become unpre- nomic justice and faith’ and to resist various strategic options: prophetic dictable. Social relations between the ‘fundamentalist religious adher- critique and legal taming of power and individuals, social classes and groups, ence to neo-liberalism’. wealth, resistance to unjust structures and between nations are regulated by ‘The ideology of the free market and living out alternatives.’ financial interests, affecting family, captures and dominates all sectors of Participants at the meeting, who religious and cultural values,’ the dec- societies and all dimensions of peo- formed ten sub-groups to debate pov- laration continues. ple’s lives, even our bodies and deep- erty and exclusion, work and employ- ‘Willingly or unwillingly, con- est desires,’ said the concluding ment and other ‘strategic issues’, sciously or unconsciously, we all par- declaration. ‘The time has come for a heard testimonies from representa- ticipate in the historical process which radical change in the dominant eco- tives of non-Christians faiths, as well has led into this system which excludes nomic system. The time has come for as from alternative local economy net- any mechanism of supervision or con- a process of committed recognition, works, women’s associations and mi- trol.’ education and confession regarding norities. The document said that about economic injustice and ecological de- The German Protestant who organ- US$1,650 billion of ‘virtual money’ struction.’ ised the colloquium, Ulrich Duchrow, was moved around the world each day, According to the declaration, par- said the aim had been to ‘establish often undermining national econo- ticipants were aware of the ‘contra- communication’ between groups mies. It added that globalisation was dictions, failures and temptations’ working on issues of faith and eco- ‘ruthlessly pushing the world into a through which churches and religious nomics since the 1998 Harare assem- uni-polar, barrierless global society’, communities had themselves become bly of the World Council of Churches, in which financial capital and interna- ‘entangled with the economic system’. and to establish greater ‘commitment, tional debt were ‘devastating nations’

42 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 GLOBAL CURRENTS and ‘becoming destructive of the ma- beings and the nurturing of God’s crea- disinvestment of church money from terial basis for human life’. tion,’ the document continued. ‘We commercial banks and corporations The declaration stated that trans- resist the idolatry of capital and the engaging in ‘speculation and tax eva- national corporations were ‘unleash- new religion of consumerism, which sion’. Steps should also be taken, the ing major ecological disasters’ and defines the purpose of life in terms of colloquium document states, to make causing ‘social upheavals’, while the material possessions.’ financial capital ‘democratically, so- World Bank, International Monetary The concluding declaration said cially and ecologically accountable’ Fund and other institutions had placed colloquium participants would work through ‘synodical bottom-up deci- Third World countries in the ‘death politically to ‘strengthen grassroots sion-making processes’. grip of debt’, and imposed policies democratic participation’ to ‘regulate The colloquium was sponsored by which fuelled ‘trauma, suffering and the economy’, as well as making ‘criti- the World Council of Churches, World devastation’. cal assessments’ of how religious Alliance of Reformed Churches and ‘We resist the assumption that the movements had become ‘part of the Pax Christi International and received world economic system should be pri- problem of economic globalisation’. support from twenty other ecumeni- marily oriented toward the accumula- Colloquium participants recom- cal organisations. It was partly funded tion of wealth for the benefit of a small mended that 5 per cent of church by the European Union, under its now minority, rather than toward the satis- budgets be allocated to ‘life-enhanc- discontinued ‘Soul for Europe’ pro- faction of basic needs of all human ing economic development’, and the gram. Jonathan Luxmoore (ENI) Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance

new organisation, the Ecu- Criteria for Issues cluding identification of the times menical Advocacy Alliance, Issues selected should: and places where pressure can be A will be established in late • be of global concern, affecting effective. 2000 to bring together a wide range people all over the world, Input is sought from a full range of of churches and church-related or- • require advocacy on a global level churches and church-related ecu- ganisations to work together in advo- (not limited to country- or re- menical organisations and networks: cacy on global issues. This new gional-specific advocacy), • What issues should the Alliance fo- alliance seeks to give the churches a • be ones where the ecumenical cus on during its first three years? more effective voice in shaping the movement is able to bring a spe- • Why? In particular, why is this par- political and economic order that af- cific ethical and theological per- ticular issue one that churches and fects the lives of all human beings on spective to the international policy the ecumenical family—as com- this planet. At its founding meeting in debate, pared with secular NGOs—should December 2000, the Ecumenical Ad- • be one where there is both broad address? vocacy Alliance will agree on two is- expertise and expressed inter- • If your church or organisation has sues for action over the next three est within the ecumenical family, set priorities for advocacy in the years. By focusing our collective efforts • be suitable to a ‘campaign-style’ coming period, what are these pri- on a limited number of priority issues, of advocacy, ority issues? we seek to increase the impact of our • be able to be clearly defined and For more information contact Maria advocacy efforts. Selecting which is- communicated, and Vila at WCC, PO Box 2100, 1211 Ge- sues to focus on is expected to be a • be amenable to the development of neva 2, Switzerland. Fax: (+41 22) difficult task. a careful long-term strategy, in- 7102419, email: [email protected].

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 43 NEWSBRIEFS

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Church to reach its vision’. The con- CCA Personnel Mohamad to talk about the economic secration was held on 12 August in the Moving Elsewhere future of South-East Asia and inter-re- historic Bali Church in Blimbingsari. ligious relations. All GKPB’s pastors and about 2,000 Mathews George Chunakara The WCC General Secretary Rev Dr people from all congregations in Bali DR MATHEWS GEORGE CHUNAKARA, Execu- Konrad Raiser said the meeting also attended the event. The same synod tive Secretary for Indochina and Inter- touched on what could be done to meeting appointed Dr Mastra to be one national Affairs, left CCA in July 2000, strengthen and foster harmonious ties of the members of the Advisory Board after the Tomohon Assembly, to take using Malaysia as an example. ‘We of the Bali Church for the period up his new responsibility as Executive were impressed by his thoughtful and 2000–2004. He was also appointed as Secretary for Regional Relations in considerate reflections. I was more a caretaker Director of the Hotel and Asia of the World Council of Churches. interested in listening to him,’ he said. Tourism Training Centre (PPLP Dhyana Mathews served on the editorial board Rev Raiser added that there was no Pura), owned by the church. of CCA News. special agenda behind the meeting, held at the PM’s Department, other Emmanuel Ilagan than being a friendly discussion. MR EMMANUEL ILAGAN, consultant for the Christian Conference of Asia Gen- World Convention of joint program of CCA and the United eral Secretary Feliciano V. Cariño said Churches of Christ Nations Economic and Social Commis- Dr Mahathir had gained respect in sion for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Asian circles for the steps he had im- he fifteenth World Convention of specifically for rural youth training, left plemented to combat the economic Churches of Christ was held 2– CCA in August 2000 to undertake a fur- crisis. ‘[Malaysia] is also one part of T6 August 2000 in Brisbane, Aus- ther study at the Lutheran Theological the South-East Asia region where reli- tralia. Between two and three thousand Seminary in San Franscisco. gious tolerance exists which is sup- people from congregations related to ported by government policy,’ he said. the Stone–Campbell family of churches Marina True from over thirty countries attended, MS MARINA TRUE, a Master of Divinity including many from Asia. As the par- student from San Franscisco Theologi- ticipants come from a variety of inde- cal Seminary, spent a year at CCA as a New Bishop of pendent churches and denominations communications interns. Based at the Bali Church there were almost no business ses- CCA Centre in Hong Kong from July sions. Instead conventioners were of- 1999 to June 2000, Marina, during her he recent synod meeting of the fered a smorgasbord of Bible studies, internship, contributed to a number of Protestant Christian Church in worship, seminars, speakers, tours publications, including CCA News. TBali (GKPB), held 27–30 July and forums to choose from. 2000, elected anew bishop, Rev. Ketut Highlights of the convention in- Suyaga Ayub. Rev. Ayub served as the cluded a moving address from Ron General Secretary of the church in O’Grady on child exploitation, hearing 1976–1984 and 1992–2000. of the work of Saleem Massey among WCC and CCA Meet Dr I. Wayan Mastra, the retiring the brick makers in Pakistan, Thai Malaysian PM bishop of the Bali Church, commented dance and drama from a group from that Rev. Ayub is ‘a very committed the Christian Communications Institute epresentatives from the World Christian and reliable person and has at Payap University and a concert with Council of Churches, Christian a long experience in leadership’. He jazz trumpeter James Morrison. The RConference of Asia and Chris- further stated that he is positive Rev. final service featured a cappella choirs tian Federation of Malaysia met with Ayub ‘will be able to lead the Bali and communion.

44 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 NEWSBRIEFS

Member in Charge of Women’s New GMIM Ministry: L. Manengkey-Kawet Leadership Member in Charge of Men’s Ministry: Boy Tangkawarow he Gerija Masehi Injili Minahasa Member in Charge of Senior Youth (Christian Evangelical Church Ministry: Hanny Pua Tin Minahasa), host of the CCA Member in Charge of Junior Youth General Assembly, held its own Assem- Ministry: Jimmy Mamahit bly in April 2000 and elected a new Member in Charge of Sunday School Executive Synod Committee for the Ministry: A.O.D. Pangaila period 2000–2005: Members at Large: S. Merentek- Moderator: Arnold F. Parengkuan Abram, A. Kapahang-Kaunang, Vice Moderators D.K. Lolowang, Jootje M.L. Faith and Order: Josef M. Saruan Umboh, J. Lombok, Winsulangi- Carolyn Kitto Local Congregation Affairs: M.L.H. Salindeho Mosal planning consultant with the New Personnel: Maria Politton-Assa South Wales Synod of the Uniting Mission and Ecumenical Rela- Church, will take up the position in tions: R.A.D. Siwu Carolyn Kitto to December. Functional Ministry and Educa- NCCA Ms Kitto has a degree in science and tion: D.P. Togas a background in youth work, Christian Resources and Fund Mobilisation: he National Council of Churches education and resourcing the life and E. Sepang in Australia has announced the mission of local congregations. She is General Secretary: Nico Gara Tappointment of a new associate currently completing a Master of Min- Associate General Secretary: A.W. general secretary, responsible for the istry degree. Tampemawa council’s Christian World Service She succeeds Michael Brown, who Treasurer: H. Montong work. Carolyn Kitto, currently mission has held the post since 1997.

COMING EVENTS

over violence and denial of basic hu- in South and South East Asia. CCA Workshop on Peace man rights in religious and ethnic con- Youth aims to equip young people to Building for Youth flicts in South and South East Asia is take up this challenge and respond to appropriate and relevant to the mis- the calling of building peace amidst Leaders sion of CCA. The major conflicts in continuing violence and injustice. We Sri Lanka, 25 September – South and South East Asia stem from have chosen this theme not only just 1 October 2000 diversity in religion and ethnicity, as to understand the situation but also to well as the overall sociopolitical con- call for interfaith action so that a cul- ne of the expressed functions dition of each country. ture of building peace can be started of CCA is ‘the development of ‘Overcoming Violence and Peace in the younger generation. Similar Oeffective Christian responses Building’ has been a constant concern workshops with a relevant focus in to the challenges of the changing so- in the thrust of CCA Youth programs. peace building will be organised in cieties in Asia’. Hence, considering the This workshop on peace building will other subregions in coming years. The present realities in Asia and concern focus on religious and ethnic conflict workshop will gather around seven-

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 45 COMING EVENTS

teen youth leaders who have been in- level as the booklet contains many sug- volved in peace issues from Indo- gestions and tips for activities. Please nesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, use it and adapt it to your calendar and Bangladesh, Thailand and Sri Lanka. the needs of your activity. It attempts to critically examine the re- ligious tension and violence in South and South East Asia, to explore the Bib- Week of Prayer for lical basics on interfaith dialogue and Christian Unity 2001 tolerance, to learn the skills of facili- tating interfaith action among youth to he Week of Prayer for Christian build a culture of peace and to facili- Unity will be held next on 18– tate exchange among CCA youth T25 January 2001. The theme for networks. These youth leaders are ex- celebratory events to mark Asia Youth 2001is, ‘I am the way, and the truth, pected to continue their organising Week. Seminars, workshops, drama, and the life.’ The material for next roles, such as organising small groups drawing, painting, music, poetry, song, year’s week of prayer was prepared by for campaign and advocacy on peace dance, worship and prayer could be an international group appointed by issues, after returning to their home used to make such an event a memo- the Commission on Faith and Order of countries. The workshop is being or- rable one. As it is an ecumenical event the World Council of Churches and the ganised in collaboration with the NCC it should draw young people irrespec- Pontifical Council for Promoting Chris- Sri Lanka Youth Committee. tive of faith or ideological commit- tian Unity [of the Roman Catholic ment. With the success of the Asian Church] at a meeting held at the guest- Students and Youth Gathering 2000, house of the Evangelical [Lutheran] Asia Youth Week we strongly encourage different stu- Church of the Augsburg Convention in 16–22 October 2000 dent and youth groups to organise a Romania, in Vulcan, Romania, in Oc- common event together. It is our hope tober 1999. CA Youth celebrates the Asia that Asia Youth Week will inspire and Youth Week every year on the challenge us to be constantly alive to the vision and hopes, the love and pas- Regional Workshop on Cthird week of October. During this special week, 16–22 October in sion of being young people in Asia. Women and Racism 2000, we encourage young people in This year the Biblical theme of Asia Youth Week is from John 10:10— 12–19 September 2000, Hsinchu Asia to come together to share and College, Hsinchu City, Taiwan learn about the life experiences of ‘Time for Fullness of Life for All’. We their communities and countries, to invite youth from all over Asia to re- CA Women’s Concerns and the reflect on and critically study the is- flect on the importance of ‘God’s time’ WCC Women under Racism sues affecting peoples’ lives in Asia and in our Christian faith, and the mean- CProgram are jointly sponsor- to seek for the nature and meaning of ing as well as actualisation of ‘Fullness ing a regional workshop on Women Christian mission in our context. Asia of Life’ for Asia—now! Resource ma- and Racism in Asia. The local host is Youth Week is also a time for joy and terials and postcards produced for this the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan. celebration as we express our unity event have been prepared jointly by a This regional workshop aims gen- and solidarity with young people, as group of young people from five re- erally to provide an ecumenical space well as to make a renewed commit- gional ecumenical student and youth of encounter for women from specific ment to the vision that holds the prom- organisations. We have sent the re- ethnic/minority/racially discriminated ise of a transformed community. source materials to our CCA constitu- communities to come together for So, this is an invitation to all young encies in the hope that it will provoke sharing, study, worship, networking people in Asia to hold reflective and discussions and activities at the local and action planning.

46 CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 PUBLICATIONS

rigorous, sus- Time for Fullness of Life for All: Biblical New Publications tained and sub- and Theological Reflections Faith and Life in Contemporary Asian stantial (CCA, Hong Kong, 2000, 52pp US$5) Realities ecumenical This booklet contains six Bible bibli- (CCA, Hong Kong, 2000, 285 pp, US$15) discussion and cal and theological reflections on the This publica- consideration theme of the General Assembly of CCA tion contains of the critical in Tomohon, 1–6 June 2000. the major pa- issues of mis- pers presented sion and mis- Time for Fullness of Life for All— at the Asia siology in this new era. There were five Assembly Worship Book Conference on broad areas of discussion: theological (CCA, Hong Kong, 2000, 50pp, US$5) Church and and biblical perspectives on mission, This book con- Society held in the challenges of other religious tra- tains six daily Darwin, Aus- ditions for understanding Christian liturgies, in- tralia, on 23– mission, mission as social engage- cluding songs, 30 September 1999. The theme, ‘Faith ment, the challenge of the new world based on the and Life in Contemporary Asian Reali- of technology for Christian mission theme of the ties’, was chosen to provide a broad and the relationships among procla- Assembly, ‘Time framework for explorations into as mation, church and unity. for Fullness of wide a range of issues as possible in Life for All’, and regard to the church’s relationship Sound the Bamboo—CCA Hymnal 2000 were used dur- with and witness in contemporary (CCA, Taiwan Church Press, 2000, 358 pp, ing daily worship during the CCA Gen- Asian societies. The range of issues US$15) eral Assembly in Tomohon. discussed included: faith and eco- This new hym- nomic life, religious plurality and the nal was launch- Time for Fullness of Life for All—Asia roles of religions in economic, social ed at the 11th Youth Week 2000 and political life, a new world of com- General Assem- (CCA, Hong Kong, 2000, 47 pp) munications and its challenges to bly in Tomohon Resource mat- church and society, migration, ecology, in June 2000. It erials for Asia the changing ideological climate of is the revised Youth Week church and society as we move to- version of 2000, normally wards the twenty-first century. Sound the celebrated on Bamboo—CCA the third week The People of God among All God’s Hymnal 1990. The new book contains of October. It Peoples: Frontiers in Christian Mission 315 hymns in forty-one Asian lan- contains various (CCA, Hong Kong, 2000, 371 pp, US$15) guages. Eleven hymns from the 1990 activities for the event, including ice- This book has been published by CCA edition were removed, and forty-six breaking, context building, theo- in collaboration with the Council for new ones, mostly from countries that logical and biblical reflection and re- World Mission. It contains the report were previously under-represented, sponding in faith. and the major papers presented at the were added. Some hymns have been Theological Roundtable sponsored by rewritten, rephrased or recom-posed, Special Offer the two organisations held in Hong but apart from one exception, the Order ten or more copies of each Kong on 11–17 November 1999. The original numbering system has been book and receive a 20 per cent primary purpose of the roundtable was retained for familiarity and continui- discount. to provide an occasion for initiating a ty’s sake.

CCA NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2000 47 GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Welcome to North Sulawesi

Travel

The choir

Discussion

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