August 18, 2008

An international group of feminist theologians has issued a dramatic call to churches to engage the world's destructive powers, stating it is crucial to hear feminist thinking in the debate on theological issues raised by empire.

The "Feminist Discourse on Economy, Ecology and Empire" was organized by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC) and hosted by the United Theological College from 12 to 17 August at Bangalore, India.

"We envision the transformation of economic and political structures in ways that enable the â*˜fullness of life for all,' " the theologians said in a statement, titled, "Exploring the Reality and Theological Challenges of Ecology, Economy and Empire from Feminist Perspectives."

"We call upon churches to live in the world in ways that engage the powers, systems and structures that deny human dignity and scorch the earth, denying justice to God's people and the created order. The human community has the capacity to transform the structures and systems of economic and political institutions in ways that promote sustainable life for all God's creation.

"We call upon churches to promote and practise sustainable ways of living that reject greed and over-consumption," the theologians said.

The meeting was held to convene an ecumenical dialogue on economy, ecology and empire; seek a common voice on threats to life; and help create a global ecumenical feminist movement for justice in the economy and the earth.

"There is an urgent need to bring together differing analyses and perspectives on the systemic roots of the life-threatening socio-economic and ecological crises and to explore possibilities of articulating a clear faith stance and envisioning a future beyond empire," the statement said.

"In particular, it is crucial to include feminist/womanist thinking in the current debates in order to fully identify the theological and ethical challenges posed by empire."

For their part, the theologians committed themselves to creating "life-oriented" institutions, structures and programmes that draw on women's wisdom; to continue creating theologies that challenge churches to be agents of transformation; to dialogue with different faiths; and to both short-term strategies of compassion and long-term strategies for justice.

They recommend the establishment of a variety of forums for feminists working on economic, ecological or empire issues as well as the development of popular and liturgical resources for local use.

Bangalore provided an important context for the meeting. The garment industry there employs many women who receive low wages and work in harsh conditions. The city's call centres pay better wages but offer a "highly controlled, policed environment," the statement said.

Said Aruna Gnanadason of WCC, "Meeting in India, which embodies many of the contradictions we addressed at the meeting, was important as the struggles of Indian women informed the discussion.

"Women have their own alternative resources to offer to counter the power of empire and globalization. It was important therefore that this consultation gave the possibility for women to voice, not just their critique, but the hope they have to offer as women working together for a caring and just economy that live gently with the earth."

Added Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth, executive secretary of WARC's Office for Church Renewal, Justice and Partnership: "Resistance to empire is growing and women are very much in the forefront.

"I believe this discourse can open new paths in building solidarity in our common struggle for justice and peace."

The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) brings together 75 million Reformed Christians in 214 churches in 107 countries – united in their commitment to making a difference in a troubled world. The WARC general secretary is Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana. WARC's secretariat is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

World Alliance of Reformed Churches