“Called to be messengers of hope, peace and reconciliation” 

LWF greets the General Assembly of the Conference of European Churches, meeing under the theme “Under God’s blessing – shaping the future”. 

LWF greets General Assembly of Conference of European Churches  

(LWI) - “The churches are called to be messengers of hope, peace and reconciliation, not only to the church members but to the wider society as well,” said LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Anne Burghardt in a greeting to the General Assembly of the Conference of European Churches (CEC) in Tallinn, Estonia, on 16 June.  

"The times in which you are gathering are not the easiest for Europe, with a war raging on the continent, polarization causing deep rifts in society, and many people seeking orientation in their lives,” she added. However, “there is not a better time to be the church than today. It is today that we are called to proclaim the Good News and to share hope.” 

The theme of the CEC General Assembly, “Under God’s blessing – shaping the future” “calls churches to actively participate in God’s holistic mission, helping to shape a future for Europe but also beyond,” continued General Secretary Burghardt. It is a “call to churches to be active in the public space,” which includes building trust, challenging injustices, and empowering people in need. 

The CEC 2023 General Assembly theme, “Under God’s blessing – shaping the future” calls churches to actively participate in God’s holistic mission, helping to shape a future for Europe but also beyond.

– Rev Dr. Anne BURGHARDT, LWF General Secretary

“I wish you fruitful deliberations and many joyful moments together with your sisters and brothers from other parts of Europe," she said in conclusion. “May you be blessed so that you may be a blessing to others through your witness and service.” 

The greeting was delivered by Rev. Dr Ireneusz Lukas, LWF Regional Secretary for Europe, on behalf of the General Secretary.