Ecumenical Advocacy Days (EAD) brought together faith leaders and advocates from across the nation for a gathering rooted in worship, education, and collective action under the theme of Protecting People, Peace and Planet. National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) governing board members and staff joined in this ecumenical witness, committing to justice, peace, and care for creation.
The gathering opened in a spirit of fellowship as participants reconnected over refreshments and networking. This sense of community led to a moving and inspiring opening worship service, where Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, United Church of Christ general minister and president/CEO, offered a powerful message grounded in faith and hope.
Equipping Leaders with Tools for Advocacy
Throughout EAD, participants were equipped with theological grounding, policy insight, and practical tools for advocacy. A day of learning and reflection began in prayer led by Rev. Dr. Leslie Copeland, NCC senior associate general secretary and advocacy director. The gathering was energized by an insightful keynote from Bishop Dwayne Royster, executive director of Faith in Action.
Educational plenary sessions featured dynamic panels and timely topics that helped participants understand the current advocacy landscape. Alongside these plenaries, training breakouts, and facilitated conversations provided opportunities to sharpen advocacy skills and prepare participants for direct engagement with state representatives.
Worship remained central throughout the gathering, grounding participants in prayer and purpose.
During the closing worship service, the community was moved and inspired by the preaching of Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, NCC president and general secretary.
EAD culminated with advocacy visits on Capitol Hill, where participants urged their state representatives to commit to Protecting People, Peace, and Planet, and concluded with an inspiring Interfaith Earth Day celebration, uniting diverse faith traditions in hope and shared responsibility for God’s creation.
How Can You Help?
Your support of the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund apportionment allows our ecumenical partners around the world to speak out against atrocities such as war and poverty for those who don’t have a voice. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund apportionment at 100 percent.
Written by Amanda Dowd, National Council of Churches Communications Officer
This story shows the impact of the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund—one of seven apportionment funds of The United Methodist Church—to foster unity and shared witness among Christians worldwide. Through this fund, the Church participates in ecumenical partnerships, interfaith dialogues, and collaborative ministries that extend the reach of the Gospel. Together, we model Christ’s prayer that all may be one.
When your church supports the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund, you help The United Methodist Church build bridges of faith and partnership across the global Church.
