Hope for Change
What gives hope today? That question was answered in several ways when organisations within the SMC network gathered for a digital event, where participants from all over the world came together to be inspired by—and to inspire—change.
SMC Inspirational Day was a vibrant and hopeful event for and with the diversity of organisations and local actors who, every day, build peace and work for justice. Our networks stretch far across all time zones (which meant some contributions had to be made in the form of pre‑recorded material) and empower people to claim their rights, hold those in power accountable, ensure that promises are kept, and—through civil society networks—enable local engagement to influence the global level as well.
”Solidarity with each other is a sign of hope!” said Reggie Nell, Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, in his opening address, noting that “faith communities do not need perfect political times to act.” In all eras, churches and faith‑based actors have worked for the vulnerable despite difficult circumstances. “We act not because the times were favourable but because of our roots,” said Reggie Nell, referring to the theological reflection that has inspired—and continues to inspire—faith‑based organisations toward care and action.
Around 130 people took part in today’s digital event and were given examples of how social accountability strengthens children’s rights in Honduras, drives environmental action in Colombia, and combats corruption in Brazil. We also heard how civil society networking reinforces work on climate, environment, and resilience—with examples from India—and how our grassroots‑adapted materials on religious freedom not only strengthen people’s right to freedom of religion and belief, but are also used to support, for example, children’s and women’s rights in African countries.
SMC’s chair, Anders Göranzon, commented on the day as follows:
“It is an inspiration to see how grass root organisations in our wider network continue to work tirelessly for human dignity and for the integrity of the creation even i dark times with shrinking spaces for democracy. The Bible quote that Ramesh Babu from EFICOR shared is a good expression of that attitude.
Though the fig tree does not blossom
and no fruit is on the vines;
though the produce of the olive fails
and the fields yield no food;
though the flock is cut off from the fold
and there is no herd in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord;
I will exult in the God of my salvation.
Hab 3:17-18 (NRSVUE)
Even in hard times we conitune to praise God and carry out God’s mission. I am deeply moved by the dedication that I have seen during all the presentations. Especially from the youth.”