Member churches of the Evangelical Mission in Solidarity (EMS) discuss new ways of peace and reconciliation work for South and East Asia at the regional forum in Delhi.

From 10 to 12 February 2025, the South and East Asia Regional Forum of the EMS takes place in Delhi (India), bringing together delegates from EMS member churches in India and Korea. The Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK), the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK), the Church of North India (CNI) and the Church of South India (CSI) are represented. Together, they are discussing new ways of conflict resolution in Asia.

Specifically, it is about the conflict between North and South Korea and the increasing tensions in the South China Sea. However, discrimination against religious minorities in India is also a topic of the churches' consultations. “We have a common task to work for peace between states and for reconciliation in the societies of South Asia and East Asia,” says Bishop B. K. Nayak, Moderator of the Church of North India. “The churches in Asia have been working for reconciliation for many years. It is part of our identity.”

For example, the Korean Council of Churches initiated a campaign for a peace treaty between North and South Korea. Despite much political hostility, the churches are working tirelessly to overcome the tensions. Another example of the churches' peace work is the “Singing for Peace” competition organised by the Church of South India (CSI). Children's choirs from 20 schools used their singing to promote peace, harmony and unity.

While the world is characterised by increasing conflict, the churches are committed to work together to overcome tensions and conflicts. “The right of the strongest must not rule, but justice and respect for others must determine our actions, whether in politics or in the encounter between religions,” says Han Yin Yoon, vice-moderator of the PCK. Rev. Sungkok Park, ecumenical officer of the PROK, recalls the peaceful revolution in Europe 35 years ago. “Back then, the churches in Europe were the driving force behind overcoming the Cold War. This is an encouragement to us that overcoming the walls is also possible in Asia.”

Dieter Heidtmann, General Secretary of the EMS, is convinced: “The peaceful cooperation of the churches across national and cultural borders in the worldwide EMS Fellowship is a model for peace work worldwide. Together we show that peace and reconciliation are possible.”

Press contact: Dr Dieter Heidtmann, heidtmann@dont-want-spam.ems-online.org, Tel. +49 711 636 78 21