Photo: ACK/Jens Haverland
The Conference of European Churches (CEC) actively participated in the international event "Living Hope for the Earth: Justice – Peace – Creation," organised by ACK Germany from 13-15 September 2024 in Dresden. The gathering addressed global challenges, including peacebuilding, environmental justice, and care for creation.
CEC Vice President, Rev. Dr Dagmar Winter of the Church of England, attended the event and was both encouraged and challenged to consider the systemic changes needed for climate justice. She stressed the importance of “rediscovering the immense treasure of the Christian faith, including the virtues of contentment, the call to live in a communal rhythm, and the command to love people and use money, not the reverse."
"Where Christians come together in joyful faith to pursue these Kingdom values, their witness will be both sustainable and appealing. That’s living hope, for we are a resurrection people,” she added.
Representing CEC was Ms Katerina Pekridou, Programme Officer for Theology and Studies, who played a key role in the discussions.
Pekridou highlighted the renewed ethical challenges brought about by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "The invasion reopened debates on just peace and just war, raising crucial questions about security and defence for Ukraine and Europe," she said.
She emphasised the role of churches in addressing these issues, noting, "Despite growing secularisation, churches still hold a consultative role in modern European societies. Our task is to engage in these debates and be a prophetic sign of peace in a violent world."
Pekridou also stressed the Christian response to the crisis, saying, "Christ calls us to transforming discipleship, to speak out against injustice, witness peace, and stand in solidarity with the oppressed. We must support victims of violence and continue to advocate for peace."
CEC’s participation aligns with its "Pathways to Peace" initiative, focusing on justice, reconciliation, and peace in Ukraine after the 2022 invasion. The initiative encourages collaboration among churches and institutions across Europe, promoting an ecumenical vision of peace and amplifying Ukrainian voices in global discussions.
ACK Germany, the event organiser, is a network of churches, regional ACKs, initiatives, and individuals, leading a joint campaign from March to September 2024 under the motto "Live Hope for the Earth: Justice – Peace – Creation."