The World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) has published the final statement from the recent Accra20 Consultation, held from 3-5 December 2024 in Hannover, Germany. This gathering of 48 activists, theologians, and church leaders from across the world marked the 20th anniversary of the Accra Confession, originally adopted at the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) General Council in 2004. The statement, reflecting on the enduring relevance of the Accra Confession in today’s context, acknowledges the deepening crises of climate catastrophe, systemic oppression, and the ongoing legacies of empire. It celebrates the confession’s prophetic call for justice while identifying areas where the church’s witness and commitment must expand. Philip Vinod Peacock, executive secretary for Justice and Witness, emphasized the importance of continuing the prophetic work of the Accra Confession: “The Accra Confession has been a profound gift to the global church, calling us to confront empire and resist the systems of death that threaten our world. Today, as we face escalating crises—ecological devastation, economic inequality, and the perpetuation of colonial injustices—we are challenged to renew our covenant for justice and embody a faith that actively seeks transformation.” The statement reaffirms the confession’s rejection of global economic capitalism and its call for radical solidarity with those on the margins. It highlights the WCRC’s continued advocacy through initiatives like the New International Financial and Economic Architecture (NIFEA) and programs such as the Ecumenical School onGovernance, Economics, and Management (GEM School). Key themes of the statement include the urgent need for reparatory and restorative justice, addressing intersectional oppression, resisting the commodification of justice movements, and grappling with the ethical implications of emerging technologies. Key Highlights of the Final Statement: - A reaffirmation of the Accra Confession as a framework for addressing the injustices of empire, neoliberal capitalism, and ecological destruction.
- A celebration of ongoing initiatives such as theNew International Financial and Economic Architecture (NIFEA)and theZacchaeus Tax Campaign.
- A recognition that our present economic system has its origins in colonialism and the slave trade, with continuing impacts on Indigenous peoples and racialized communities, particularly those of African descent.
- A commitment to addressing evolving challenges, including systemic oppression, land rights, LGBTQIAjustice, and the socio-economic impacts of advanced technologies.
- A call to resist the commodification of justice movements and re-center the leadership of marginalized communities.
The final statement recognizes the continuing relevance of the Accra Confession and extends its vision to encompass emerging issues such as settler colonialism, climate catastrophe, and the disruptive effects of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. This prophetic work is essential for the integrity of our faith, as highlighted in the prayer concluding the final statement:“For the integrity of our faith is at stake if we cannot be so bold as to live and proclaim [God’s] promise of justice and abundant life for all.” As the WCRC approaches its upcomingGeneral Councilunder the theme “Persevere in Your Witness,” this statement calls on its member churches to deepen their commitment to justice in the economy and the earth, affirming that the integrity of their faith is at stake. The full text of the final statement isavailable here. SOURCE>WCRC |