More than 4,000 Baptists from over 140 countries gathered in July for the 22nd Baptist World Congress.
Held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Congress was the Baptist World Alliance’s (BWA) most globally diverse gathering in its 116 year history. With content offered in multiple languages, Congress participants engaged in worship, prayer, fellowship and Bible study around the theme, TOGETHER. The Director of Global Partnerships and Unity, Julie Justus shared her excitement about the gathering. “We are so pleased that the 22nd Baptist World Congress is truly a global event! With participants from more than 140 countries and territories, we will be together from every corner of the world.”
“This Congress is about being TOGETHER and we know that it will be a taste of heaven on earth,” Julie said. Through the financial support of State Unions, including Baptist Churches Western Australia, Australian Baptist Ministries was able to offer free Congress registrations to any Baptist in Australia. To help international participants connect, more than 40 Global Connection Groups were formed focusing on areas of mutual interest, with small groups creating space to hear each other’s testimonies and insights around given topics.
Director of Global Events and Fellowship, Carolina Mangieri reflected on the event. “The highlight of the Congress is to be able to bring people together, which opens the opportunity for relationship building, ministry commitments and partnership creation.” “Worshipping and praying in many languages is a beautiful experience – every nation and tribe, every people and language standing in front of the throne of God,” Carolina said.
For more information, visit anglican.org.au/our-work/family-violence