The Church and Community Mobilisation (CCM) movement has been growing across East and Southeast Asia in recent years. In November 2022, the East Southeast Asia Church and Community Mobilisation (CCM) Community of Practitioners and Influencers (COPI) Regional Learning Conference was held, face-to-face, in Chiang Rai, Thailand. This event brought together CCM practitioners and influencers from Thailand, Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, Philippines, China, and Myanmar, providing a platform for mutual learning and discovery.
The theme of this year’s conference was “Together to Innovate Towards A Stronger Movement.” As participants, we explored innovative approaches that can help strengthen the CCM movement in the region. We discussed the challenges faced by churches and communities and identified creative solutions to address them.
COPI is an initiative that mobilizes churches and communities through Biblical wisdom, empowering individuals to make a positive impact in their local communities. The conference provided us a space for learning, enriching conversations, and appreciation of the work of CCM movement in Thailand through the Thai Karen Baptist Church (KBC), Mekong Minority Foundation (MMF), and Laos. We also discussed what is next for national and regional movements, creating room for continuing discussion.
Innovation is a key aspect of COPI, and participants were encouraged to find creative solutions to the challenges faced by their communities. We shared our collective knowledge, talents, experiences, and ideas, unlocking the full potential to reach new heights. We also explored creative ways to work, highlighting the importance of using power wisely to build something greater than ourselves.
Through small group workshops, we discussed and learned from powerful Bible passages such as Genesis 1:1-2:3, Deuteronomy 34:1-9, and John 21:15-17 with inputs by Kuya Raymond Kwong which emphasized the importance of responsibility [Towards the Pinaccle], hoping/dreaming together [collaboration], and creating spaces for innovations. These passages served as a reminder that we should always treat others with kindness and respect, regardless of our differences, and embrace the beauty of diversity. Participants tried to relate them to the 12 CCM principles [from Salatiga Conference] and challenged themselves to connect them to innovation and how it will build a stronger CCM movement.
COPI ESEA is a powerful initiative that brings people together to make a positive impact in their communities. The conference provided us a platform for mutual learning and discovery, fostering innovation, responsibility, and kindness. Participants returned home with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools needed to contribute to building a stronger CCM movement. As we move forward, let us continue to work together towards a common goal, guided by prayerful guidance, love, and compassion.