Asian youth promote justice, peace
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Thirty-eight young Methodist leaders from eight
countries gathered in Siam Reap, Cambodia, to explore ways they can work
together for justice and peace.
UMNS Web-only photos by Grace A. Tomas.
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By Grace A. Tomas*
Dec. 17, 2009 | SIEM REAP, Cambodia (UMNS)
Thirty-eight young Methodist leaders from eight countries have formed
the Sixth Conference Asian Methodist Youth Network to explore ways they
can work together for justice and peace.
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The Sixth Conference in Cambodia had the theme "Working
Together for Justice and Peace in a Globalized World.”
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The network’s purpose is to bring together young people of Asian
churches rooted in the Wesleyan tradition in order to provide them the
opportunity to share and strengthen one another and plan partnerships
and cooperative efforts. The youth network seeks to respond to the
prevailing issues of the day, as well as taking an active role in the
wider ministry of the church. Participating countries included South
Korea, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar
and Cambodia.
The Sixth Conference in Cambodia had the theme "Working Together for
Justice and Peace in a Globalized World.” Participants were invited to
share, discuss and decide on matters pertaining to programs and goals
for the network, learn more about globalization and respond to issues
and challenges that confront the group.
HIV/AIDS was one focus issue. Participants learned about the
prevalence of the disease in Cambodia, and visited and interacted with
people living with HIV and AIDS and their families. Two more days were
dedicated to globalization in Asia and its effect on young people in the
region.
The conference also formed a Council of Leaders, composed of one
representative from each of the countries represented, to oversee
operations for the next three years. Priorities for the future include
human rights, building partnerships and organizing an advocacy program.
Steps will be taken to link more closely with ecumenical youth
organizations such as the Christian Conference of Asia and the East-Asia
Students and Youth Network.
* Tomas is coordinator of the Asian Methodist Youth Network.
News media contact: David Briggs, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or
newsdesk@umcom.org.
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