This is a joint press release from the Conference of European Churches, Churches’ Commission for Migrants in Europe, and the World Council of Churches.
The Churches’ Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME) and the World Council of Churches (WCC) have published a revised and updated edition of their joint study, Mapping Migration: Mapping Churches’ Responses in Europe. The 2016 text explores challenges and changes in the European church landscape in light of international migration.
The comprehensive study — prepared by missiologist Rev. Dr Darrell Jackson and sociologist Dr Alessia Passarelli — combines theological interpretation, sociological accounts, and the voices of migrants themselves. Mapping Migration is organized according to the themes of integration, belonging, and community, and it articulates both the experiences of migrants and how they shape and build church communities in Europe.
“This updated study contributes to a better understanding of migration and diversity in European societies and churches,” said CCME general secretary Doris Peschke. “We hope this work will cultivate more adequate responses to migration.”
Migration in Europe contributes to a more diverse religious presence and affects the mission of the churches, the book argues. “Migration provides opportunity to welcome the stranger and uphold the dignity of every human being,” remarked CEC general secretary Fr Heikki Huttunen.
The study is released in advance of a WCC/UN high level conference on the refugee crisis in Europe, to be held in Geneva on 18-19 January. WCC general secretary Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit said, “The timely new edition of Mapping Migration will support the vital work of European churches in the present crisis.”
With accessible theological reflection, user-friendly infographics, and compelling first-hand accounts, Mapping Migration is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of the life of the churches with trends in migration.
Mapping Migration is available for download from the CCME website. Print copies are available from Amazon France, Amazon Germany, and Amazon UK and other online retailers.
