A major development during 2025 was the Global Ecumenical Theological Institute (GETI) organised in connection with the Sixth World Conference on Faith and Order under the theme “Where now for visible unity?” The programme included an online phase from 15 September to 12 October 2025 and a residential phase from 12–29 October 2025 in Wadi El Natrun, Egypt. Chung described how GETI included theological lectures and facilitated group work, worship and community life, contextual and study visits, interreligious encounters, and direct interaction with the Sixth World Conference on Faith and Order. “Ninety-five participants were admitted to GETI 2025, representing different regions and church traditions,” she said. “A formal evaluation was undertaken following GETI. The results indicated a high level of overall satisfaction.” Chung also described one of the major follow-up projects: the preparation of the publication GETI 2025: Voices and Visions of Transformative Unity, which will be launched 8 October. “The publication records the theological work undertaken through GETI and serves as a resource for future ecumenical theological education and formation,” she said. “Another significant area of work has been the development of Ecumenism 101, an introductory online course on ecumenism.” The course has been developed as a means of making basic ecumenical knowledge and formation more widely accessible beyond residential programmes. “The course content is complete, with public release planned through the WCC website,” said Chung. “Work on Regional Ecumenical Theological Institutes has continued as part of the effort to strengthen ecumenical formation in different regional contexts.” During 2026, particular attention has been given to North America and Latin America. “In 2026, Bossey marks its 80th anniversary, having been established in 1946,” added Chung. “The 2026–2027 academic year began in September 2026 with a new cohort of 33 students.” She described how the institute continues to combine academic theological study with residential, intercultural. and inter-confessional community life. "Work has also continued to strengthen networks connected with ecumenical theological education,” continued Chung. “The GETI 2025 evaluation demonstrated strong interest among participants in remaining connected after the programme.” The 2026 WCC Commission on Ecumenical Education and Formation is meeting at the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey from 5–9 October. The Commission will also participate in the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the institute on 7 October. Read the full report WCC general secretary shares encouragement with WCC education commission (WCC news release, 5 October 2026) WCC Commission on Ecumenical Education and Formation to meet at Bossey (WCC news release, 30 September 2026) Photo gallery |