When I served on the National Council of Churches in the early 1990s, along with previous General Secretaries, I was impressed by the Ecumenical gathering of all the protestant delegations from multi denominations. We met to examine issues in God’s Church, including racial divisions, conflict over traditional views of building God’s Kingdom, misconceptions about church values and humanism, women’s involvement, acceptance of missionaries, and generational differences. These Ecumenical gathering allowed the Historical Blacks Churches to share in the leadership development of the Ecumenical movement nationally and expanded to the World Council of Churches as we met in Brazil with another lens of Cultural hospitality in God’s Kingdom. The concept of Christian unity is considered important within various religious contexts. As an African American Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Reformed Church in America, I gained insight into how unity promotes harmony and cooperation among Christians globally. Indeed, This allow people who were not of Dutch tradition to enhance a broader context of God’s Kingdom.
As a former member of the RCA Black Council, I learned that ecumenism is an interfaith movement promoting biblical justice and collective action among Christian groups, aiming for unity in Christ despite doctrinal differences. As a RCA Christian educator, I promote dialogue, collaboration, and opportunities for shared worship among various traditions. I was able to hold workshops on “Unity in the Faith” as a renewal of Hospitality of all people of God during my years as a RCA Chaplain, through ecumenical efforts, with a deeper appreciation of embracing the Reformed Traditional Faith Communities. Christians can seek common ground and explore ways to work together while respecting our differences and theological perspectives.
Discussions are ongoing regarding the transition from Regional Synod to the formation of a “Middle Assembly” as a possible ministry within the church. This approach aims to unite congregations and facilitate collective participation in addressing social issues, promoting peace, and advocating for marginalized groups within church communities. As the Executive Minister, I hope that, as a diverse group, we can work together to encourage positive change and foster a spiritual of optimism within our communities and beyond.