Eighteen officers, staff and workers from partner-churches of Lingap Pangkabataan Inc. joined the 2020 Asia Regional Consultation (ARC) of Micah Global last October 15, 16, 22 and 23, 2020.
The focus of this year’s four-day ARC was Integral Mission and the Public Square. The Public Square is where shared concerns for society and its wellbeing are expressed, debated and worked out such as government structures, civil society, and community gatherings at a grassroots level.
This year’s ARC (carried out online and not onsite because of the Covid-19 pandemic) had a battery of inspiring speakers. CB Samuel shared a biblical reflection reminding the participants that the call to Christian faith requires us to practice faith in the public square.
Among the speakers that stood out was a Filipina–Ms. Melba Magay—who reminded us to fight oppressive governments whose bad leadership affects its citizens doubly hard especially during these trying times. Admitting her disinterest in politics, she nevertheless is forced to engage in issues of power, especially where there is an issue of injustice.
Among the many themes that emerged during the plenary and the breakout sessions included the need to retain compassion as a primary and biblical motivation in our work in the public square.
The influence of the youth was highlighted as well with calls to increase youth engagement with the public square of social media. There was strong call to go back to basics and ensure that both human and the natural world could live together.
Also, a reiteration of our roles as Christians towards reconciliation and peace-building in the public space.
Finally, the link between service and advocacy, including ministering to people who are being trafficked, was also emphasized. Three Christian politicians also shared their journeys on how they live their faith as they perform their roles as politicians or government workers.
About 370 individuals representing various ministries, churches and organizations worldwide participated this event organized this year by Micah Asia and the Mustard Seed Mission.