ReCap of NARA 2011

Tyler, Miriam, and Sheryl NARA 2011

 

Kathryn and Smith Jamming!Since the North American Region was re-launched in January 2009, it has been growing and developing significantly.  Not only has a new Student Christian Movement emerged in the US; the other movements in the region have engaged themselves with new vigor and purpose.  Following this surge in energy, movements and new students and young adults could come together for the first North American Regional Assembly of the WSCF after many years! This event sought to determine the main programmatic elements for the region and elect a new North American Regional Committee to oversee the administration of the wider vision.

The NARA, which took place in Chicago, IL on October 14-19 incorporated two distinct aspects: regional business sessions and a thematic conference that related to the annual theme of the global Federation for 2011 which was 'Overcoming Violence'.  This combination presented an enticing educational opportunity while looking to the future.  Students and young adults:Hands On Workshop

  • Engaged in challenging conversations about the topic 'Overcoming Violence'
  • Attended creative worship and liturgical moments
  • Voted a new set of bylaws
  • Encountered the challenges students in the Middle East face as Christian in their region from a student from that region
  • Participated in a water justice liturgy in front of Lake Michigan
  • Joined Occupy Chicago for their big march coinciding with the exposure day in the city
  • Shared thoughts and strategies about their present or future involvement with Student Christian Movements in their contexts.

For some this was the first opportunity to realize the bountiful opportunities of becoming part of a global community of students striving to make social change through their faith in God and their action in community.   Coming together as a region has provided a platform for visioning the near future of the WSCF in North America and solidified our commitments to find collectively ways to be in solidarity with one another, build sustainable platforms for dialogue, and as a result, encourage a spirit of activism for peace and justice for future generations and the earth.

Thanks be to God!

Our Leaders Take Their Job Very Seriously!