For over 50 years the World Council of Churches has been inviting young people to its meetings to serve in the background and to observe the deliberative work of ecumenism up close. W.A. Visser't Hooft, the first general secretary of the WCC, wanted young people to encounter ecumenism and its leaders, so they might one day become its leaders. Ecumenical formation is more than teaching ecumenical theology or ecclesiology. It is about sharing the excitement and joy of ecumenism.

The Stewards Programme is only the beginning of a long process. It encourages young people to continue the journey of ecumenism. The 2001 Stewards Programme is composed of three phases: 18 - 21 January : Exposure Programme 22 - 28 January : Ecumenical Training Seminar 29 January - 6 February : Central Committee meeting

Stewards at the Harare Assembly. WCC photo: Chris Black

"Peace and Reconciliation"
The theme of the Ecumenical Training Seminar is "Peace and Reconciliation". By the end of the seminar, each participant will have prepared a project to be implemented upon returning home that will contribute to the WCC Decade to Overcome Violence. The decade which will last from 2001 through 2010 will be launched during the Berlin meeting of the Central Committee.

"Work, pray and sweat" Being a steward means first and foremost hard work. The work is often exhausting, intense and done under the pressure of short deadlines. The main areas of tasks to be carried out are: Conference Room Documentation Computer and Information Services Communication - Press Worship

Stewards from Zimbabwe, the Dominican Republic and South Korea at the Harare Assemby. WCC photo: Chris Black

Other tasks include assisting with general administration, sorting mail, delivering message, etc.

Apart from the work, stewards have a unique opportunity to encounter the ecumenical movement from the inside. While not able to formally participate in the debates and discussions, stewards are an important part of ecumenical meetings. As a community of young people from different churches, countries, cultures and languages, each steward brings something of their background, faith and commitment to this ecumenical experience of togetherness and friendship. Being a steward will be a challenge, encourage involvement and participation. It may indeed change your life.

Stewards must be between 18 and 30 years old. English is the working language of the programme, but knowledge of additional languages is greatly appreciated. Due to the amount of work required, applicants need to be in good health. Working hours are irregular and often special programmes are planned after work for the stewards. This means that the days will be long and tiring. Patience, ability to work with people from other countries and cultures as well as a willingness to work together as a team is essential.

All stewards are expected to make a cash contribution towards their travel expenses, and in the case of stewards from affluent nations, to cover 100% of these costs. Some subsidy funds for those coming from developing countries do exist. Please complete the relevant section in the application form concerning travel thoughtfully and clearly. Specific requests for assistance will be dealt with on a case by case basis. The main aim of this contribution is to create a sense of ownership in the programme from both the stewards and their respective community. The contribution can be a combination of funds from yourself, your church, your parish, etc.

Interested?
Read the application form carefully, print it, fill it out clearly (type if possible) and submit it by fax or post to the address mentioned on the bottom of the form by the 1 September deadline.

The selection of 35 stewards will be based on the application form and only applications which are fully completed and submitted on time will be considered. The number of places in the programme are limited, so some people are bound to be disappointed because there will not be enough places for all the well-qualified applicants. However, all applicants will be informed by mid-September 2000.

The WCC will be responsible for board and lodging expenses during the time of the programme and will provide some pocket money. Travel costs to and from the meeting are to be borne by the steward, except in cases where partial subsidy is granted. Passport, visa and any other related personal expenses are the responsibility of the steward.