Full Documentation of CCME’s 60 Years Celebration Now Available

29 January, 2025


THE Churches’ Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME) celebrated its 60th anniversary at the Evangelische Akademie Frankfurt, reflecting on six decades of dedicated work towards human dignity and the rights of migrants, refugees, and minority ethnic groups. The event brought together leaders, theologians, migration practitioners, and ecumenical partners from across Europe and beyond, uniting under the theme "Protecting People More than Borders."

A Legacy of Faith-Driven Advocacy

Founded in 1964, CCME has been a cornerstone of faith-based migration work, advocating for human rights and addressing systemic challenges faced by migrants. The anniversary celebrations featured opening remarks from CCME Moderator Fiona Kendall, highlighting the organization's journey and its critical role in shaping humane migration policies. She emphasized CCME’s commitment to placing people at the heart of migration discourse, echoing its long-standing motto, “Beyond Borders.”

Prominent Voices Call for Justice

Keynote speaker Bishop Prof. em. Heinrich Bedford-Strohm, Moderator of the World Council of Churches (WCC) Central Committee, delivered a powerful address underscoring the biblical and ethical imperatives of welcoming strangers. He described the moral urgency of providing safe and legal pathways for migrants, challenging the dominant political focus on border security.

Rev. Dr. Volker Jung, Church President of the Protestant Church of Hesse-Nassau, reaffirmed the church’s responsibility in countering exclusionary policies, advocating for just and inclusive migration systems. He reminded attendees of the transformative power of faith communities in fostering solidarity and addressing societal polarization.

Showcasing Impact and Collaboration

The program featured a panel discussion reflecting on CCME's milestones and the evolving role of churches in migration work. Panelists, including former and current CCME leaders, highlighted the organization’s efforts in policy advocacy, grassroots support, and fostering partnerships with international bodies like the WCC and the Conference of European Churches.

Participants shared inspiring stories of hope, such as the recent success of the COMET network, which facilitates safe migration pathways through EU funding and collaboration across multiple countries. These efforts exemplify CCME’s ability to translate advocacy into tangible solutions for those in need.

Challenges Ahead

The event also addressed pressing issues such as the EU's recent asylum and migration policies, the rise of xenophobia, and the increasing challenges migrants face at Europe’s borders. CCME General Secretary Dr. Torsten Moritz called for continued advocacy, stressing that protecting human dignity must remain at the forefront of migration policy. At the event, CCME launched an initiative to work on an alternative asylum system which “protects people more than borders.”

A Call to Action

The celebrations concluded with a service of thanksgiving and commitment, where participants renewed their resolve to champion the rights of migrants. “As we face new challenges, our work must reflect our shared faith and conviction that every person is created in the image of God,” said Ms. Fiona Kendall.

The full documentation of the event, including reflections, keynotes, and insights into CCME's work and future direction, is now available. 

Also check “Shaping Migration in a Humane Manner” Joint Statement by the Council of the Protestant Church in Germany and the German Bishops’ Conference. 

CCME 60 Years Celebration - Full Documentation

Download here
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