Last week, the EMS International Mission Council convened in Kassel. The consultations centred on the sustainability strategy of the Evangelical Mission in Solidarity.

"Green has always been the colour of the EMS," explains General Secretary Rev. Dr Dieter Heidtmann. "The measures now adopted will make the EMS even more sustainable and greener - not only in ecological terms but also in social and financial terms. We look forward to this joint process with our members.

It is planned to complete a review of the ecological, social and financial sustainability of all work areas within the EMS by the next EMS General Meeting at the end of 2024. The International Mission Council has appointed two working groups to carry out this task. A theological working group will compile eco-theological guidelines for the EMS Fellowship. Another working group will review all the existing policies of the EMS and, where necessary, supplement them with additional guidelines. At the same time, the Secretariat will undergo EMASplus certification.

During the conference of the International Mission Council, the members met with the Bishop of the Evangelical Church of Kurhessen-Waldeck, Prof. Dr Beate Hofmann. The meeting took place at the "Neue Brüdergemeinde” (New Moravian Congregation) in Kassel. The congregation provides a home for the Ethiopian Orthodox congregation, an African cooperation congregation and the congregation in Kurhessen (Hesse Electorate). Collectively, they offer a place of diversity and encounter. The emblem of this international congregation is a hand-made carpet that symbolises the common ground of believers from all over the world. What a befitting place for the encounter with the Mission Council of the international EMS Fellowship!

The Mission Council forms the International Executive Board of the EMS and meets twice a year. It consists of 17 people: eight from churches in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, six from churches in Germany and three from the mission societies. The Chair of the Finance Committee and two youth representatives act in an advisory capacity. The Mission Council adopts fundamental resolutions on EMS programmes.