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Discover the Transformative Ecumenism Movement

In search of alternatives to dominant discourses and visions

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About

Transformative Ecumenism Movement was launched in partnership with the All Africa Council of Churches in Nairobi, Kenya on August 19, 2023. 
 
Transformative Ecumenism is an invitation to action in response to the urgent crises that confront the world today. It is informed by a series of conversations on these challenges among some concerned individuals engaged in ecumenical reflection and action in different parts of the world. 
  
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Transformative Ecumenism

A New Awareness of the Interconnectedness of Life
Transformative ecumenism, through its affirmation of the created order as God’s self-expression, affirms the dignity of every human being and the integrity of the creation. (Ps. 24:1) By asserting the interconnectedness and interdependence of the created order, it challenges all homogenizing and monopolizing ideologies that destroy the “many-ness” of life in God’s creation. 
In contrast to the oikoumene rooted in empires past and present, Transformative Ecumenism invites people to strive for a world that is shaped and led by the values of love, justice, mutuality, and interdependence and an organic bond with nature that ensures life for all. (Mk.10:43).

As an alternative vision of the future, Transformative Ecumenism inspires partnerships for justice and truth by anchoring itself in reflections and actions of those on the margins and in struggle against the forces of marginalization. It asserts that the transformation of society must begin not according to the plans of the powerful but with the visions and aspirations of those yearning for life. (Matt. 5: 6, 10)

Transformative ecumenism is a vocation of hope in action. It is a life of discipleship that joins God at work in situations of struggle for and celebration of life (Matt. 25:35–45). It resists systems, cultures, and practices that deny life, dignity, and justice to the marginalized; speaks truth to power; and nurtures values, and relationships that sustain and enhance life.

Transformative Ecumenism Movement strives:

  • for a people-based, justice-driven and change-effecting expressions of the ecumenism;
  • to be a movement of movements collaborating with people engaged in liberative and transformative actions;
  • a space for those daring to ask uncomfortable questions in faithfulness to God’s call and anticipation of a new future that resonates with those yearning for justice and life; and
  • a movement that aspires to be expressive of the dreams and visions of young people.

What we do?

The work of the TEM is facilitated by an International Reference Group convened by the Council World Mission

Theological Reflection

A theological exploration from below that draws on the experiences and visions of 
those pushed to the margins and those in the struggle against the marginalizing 
forces.

Networking and Movement Building

Collaborates with people engaged in liberative and transformative actions and  led by the values of love, justice, mutuality, and interdependence and by an organic bond with nature. 
 

Youth Leadership

Accompanies young people as they express their visions for the future and allows itself to be enriched by their visions and leadership.

Advocacy and Participation

Joins and supports the initiatives of people’s movements and civil society organisations

Interfaith Collaborations for Justice and Peace

Participates in and facilitates coalitions of faith communities for just and inclusive expressions of human community.

Transformative Ecumenism Movement and The Onesimus Project

Transformative Ecumenism Movement is supported by the Council for World Mission as part of its Onesimus Project. Its Key Priority Areas are:
  • Legacies of Slavery
  • Modern Day Slavery
  • Education for Liberation
  • Transformative Ecumenism
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Join the Movement

Be a part of the community attempting alternatives for a new future.

TEM connects with churches, movements and people engaged in actions seeking :

Social Justice
Racial Justice
Gender Justice
Climate Justice
Economic Justice
Human Dignity
Progressive and Inclusive Political Culture