The Worldwide Church

The Worldwide Church is a term used to describe the global community of Christian believers, transcending geographical, cultural, and denominational boundaries.
It is comprised of a diverse multitude of Christian denominations, including Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, and numerous Protestant traditions.
The Worldwide Church is unified by a common belief in Jesus Christ as the son of God and the saviour of humanity, as well as the teachings of the Bible.
Nonetheless, there are diverse interpretations and practises within the Worldwide Church, reflective of the cultural context and historical development of various Christian communities.

Ecumenical Movement

The Ecumenical Movement is a significant aspect of the Worldwide Church, aiming to foster greater understanding and unity among different Christian denominations.
The World Council of Churches is a global inter-church organisation, representative of the Ecumenical Movement. It promotes cooperation and dialogue among diverse Christian traditions.
Ecumenical activities may include theological dialogue, shared worship services, and collaborative charitable work. Such initiatives intend to overcome historical or doctrinal differences and promote a collective Christian witness.

Mission and evangelism are integral practises within the Worldwide Church, rooted in the Great Commission – Jesus’s commandment to his disciples to spread his teachings.
Mission work can include preaching and teaching, healing, and social service, reflecting the holistic nature of the Christian message.
Evangelism is about spreading the Christian faith, primarily through personal testimony and structured church outreach programmes.
The aim of mission and evangelism is not just individual conversions, but also the transformation of societies in accordance with Christian values of love, justice, and peace.

Despite being the world’s largest religion, Christianity has experienced varying degrees of persecution throughout history and in different parts of the world.
Christian persecution can result from religious, political, or social factors, ranging from discrimination and societal alienation to violence and martyrdom.
The Worldwide Church often supports persecuted Christians through prayer, advocacy, and practical aid.
Persecution can also lead to the growth and spread of Christianity as believers continue to witness their faith in the face of opposition.

Christian Aid is a major international charity and development agency within the Worldwide Church, committed to eradicating poverty and injustice.
The agency operates in over 60 countries and partners with local organisations to deliver emergency relief, long-term development projects, and advocacy work.
Christian Aid is a manifestation of the Worldwide Church’s commitment to social justice, demonstrating love for neighbour and care for God’s creation.