WCC NEWS: New WCC Advent resource will help mobilise healing communities

A new Advent resource from the World Council of Churches, “Reflection, Prayer, Action,” is designed to guide congregations in preparing for the birth of Christ by engaging deeply with themes of women’s wellbeing and agency, the positive role of men in family life and reproductive health, displacement and migration, and the promise of peace. 'Family moments make great memories' reads a sign in the kitchen as a family prepares an evening meal in their home in Beit Sahour, in the larger Bethlehem area. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 28 November 2025 Rooted in Scripture, early Christian insights, and the lived realities of today’s world, “Reflection, Prayer, Action” offers concise reflections, prayers, community actions, and advocacy points to mobilise churches to become agents of healing and justice.  By integrating spiritual formation with concrete acts of solidarity and resource mobilisation, especially in support of health, wellbeing, and vulnerable communities, this Advent initiative invites faith communities to anticipate Christ’s coming not only with devotion, but with committed action that nurtures hope, restores dignity, and strengthens holistic peace. “We reflect on the resilience, dignity, and agency of women, embodied powerfully in the story of Mary,” reads one reflection. “As a young, pregnant teenager, Mary embraces God’s calling with remarkable courage despite potential stigma, insecurity, and risk.” Download the full ressources here See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland