International Conference in Berlin Explores Diversity, Democracy, and Hostility
Berlin, Germany – From December 4 to 7, an international conference titled “God’s Kaleidoscope 3: Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Democracy, Challenging Hostility” convened in Berlin. Hosted by the Diocese in Europe of the Church of England in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC) and other ecumenical and international partners, the gathering aimed to address pressing global issues such as rising hostility, polarization, racial discrimination, xenophobia, misinformation, and the erosion of democratic values.
Building on the momentum of previous racial justice conferences in 2023 and 2024, this year’s event fostered new conversations and commitments across the Church of England, partner churches, and global ecumenical networks. The conference theme, “God’s Kaleidoscope,” served as a metaphor for diverse identities forming new, life-giving patterns when brought together in justice and compassion. This vision underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue and solidarity with marginalized communities, including migrants, refugees, displaced persons, and those facing structural discrimination.
Key Discussions and Contributions
Over four days, participants engaged in a comprehensive program that included Bible studies, keynote lectures, panel discussions, young people’s forums, group work, and prayer sessions. These activities were designed to deepen understanding and equip churches for transformative action. Young people played a significant role, contributing their insights and aspirations throughout the program, particularly within collaborative group sessions.
A notable presentation by the WCC highlighted the disproportionate burden of environmental harm faced by communities of color, emphasizing that climate justice is inextricably linked with racial justice.
Bishop Prof. Dr. Heinrich Bedford-Strohm, WCC central committee moderator, delivered a reflection on the moral foundations of democracy and the urgent need to safeguard human dignity. He posed a critical question: “Democracy may be one of the best systems of governance, but what happens when it develops mechanisms that can lead to its own abolishment?” He cautioned against the erosion of democratic values when elected leaders view diversity with suspicion. Affirming the inherent dignity of every human being, created in the Image of God, he underscored the relational nature of life.
Dr. Masiiwa Gunda, WCC programme executive for programmatic responses on overcoming racism, shared his perspective on the challenges facing the ecumenical movement. “While we are witnessing the impact of the far-right movements on ordinary people, I am worried that the current ecumenical movement does not seem to have a ‘good news’ for the struggling white middle class, who are turning to what we believe to be ‘dangerous news’ from the far right,” said Gunda. He further argued that while evangelization and mission were misused during colonization, the solution is not to abandon the calling to spread ‘good news,’ but to establish safeguards to prevent past mistakes. He concluded by asking, “What are today’s good news to the suffering and hopeless?”
Future Initiatives and Resources
The conference underscored the ongoing commitment to addressing racism, discrimination, and xenophobia. The WCC continues its work in this area, offering new anti-racist and anti-bias materials for churches and communities. Further resources from the conference are expected to be made available to the public.
Source: https://www.oikoumene.org/news/international-conference-in-berlin-strengthens-diversity-and-democracy
