WCC news: At World Methodist Council, WCC general secretary asks: What does it mean to move with God?

During a sermon at the World Methodist Council in Gothenburg, Sweden on 14 August, World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay explored the heart of the gathering: “On the Move.”  Photo: Peter Williams/WCC 14 August 2024 He noted that the World Methodist Council is marking a significant turning point, and facing global challenges that demand discernment and a faithful response.  “When things that we protect such as our culture, language, beliefs, theological views, race, ethnicity, identity feel threatened, we rather move on our own than move with God,” Pillay noted. “As the World Methodist Council, you are now on the move as new leaders are elected, as you ask what God is calling you to do in the face of old and new challenges in the world today.” Pillay reflected that he often sees churches going against God. “Crises can be opportunities if we stop to ask what new thing God is calling us into,” he said. “The idea of moving with God is a very powerful image in the scriptures.” In fact, Pillay notes, biblical history details these movements in different stories. “The kingdom or reign of God is not static but dynamic,” he said. “The concept of pilgrimage in Christian theology is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and reflects our relationship with God as a journey.” This journey is characterized by movement, transformation, and a continual striving towards the divine, Pillay noted. “We are called to step out in faith, leaving behind our comfort zones, and embarking on a path directed by God’s promises,” he said. “As you journey into the future let it be a journey of faith.” Pillay mentioned the virtues of discernment and detachment. “We must cultivate the ability to listen to God’s call amidst the many misleading voices, even within our churches, that can lead us astray, sowing discord and confusion, and to act with courage and faith,” he said. “We must cultivate the virtue of discernment, both individually and collectively, to remain faithful to the truth we have received from God in Jesus Christ.“ Pillay acknowledged that change is difficult. “We all struggle with change,” he said. “We are glad to accept change so long as everything remains the same.” But in life nothing is certain, he concluded.  “The journey may be rough and tough, but all will be well,” he said. “God in Christ holds all things together.” Read the full sermon WCC general secretary will share insights at World Methodist Conference in Sweden - WCC news release, 14 August 2024 See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland