Chiang Mai, Thailand: Speaking at the International Consultation on Ecumenism in Asia: Emerging Ecclesial and Ecumenical Landscapes, Christian Conference of Asia General Secretary Dr Mathews George Chunakara stressed that Asian churches must strengthen ecclesial unity amid diversity by moving beyond denominational interests and nurturing a people-centred, grassroots ecumenism.
More than 70 church and ecumenical leaders from across Asia, Europe and North America, are attending the international consultation at Payap University in Chiang Mai, Thailand, including NCCA President Rev John Gilmore, Rev Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church in Australia and Bishop Daniel of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia.
Dr Mathews George Chunakara examined how the shift of Christianity’s “centre of gravity” from Europe and North America to the Global South has made Asia a major hub of Christian mission.
This transformation has been marked by the rapid expansion of evangelical, Pentecostal, charismatic, independent, and non-denominational churches, as well as para-church groups and movements.
Dr Chunakara described the emergence of “ecumenical archipelagos” in Asia, where competing networks and structures, often supported by non-Asian mission agencies, operate independently of existing ecumenical frameworks. Rather than strengthening cooperation, these developments risk fragmenting the ecumenical movement and undermining its coherence, coordination, and collective witness.
He also pointed to a crisis of conciliarity and ecumenical commitment within the churches. “Many churches increasingly prioritise institutional interests, denominational identities, and organisational visibility over broader Christian fellowship.
“This trend is compounded by a lack of ecumenical vision among some church leaders, declining interest in ecumenical formation among younger generations, and insufficient commitment to strengthening relationships across local, national, regional, and global levels”, said the CCA General Secretary.
“The greatest challenge facing Asian Christianity today is not numerical growth but maintaining unity amid diversity. At a time when churches are increasingly diverse yet often divided, it is imperative to strengthen our common witness through cooperation, solidarity, and shared action.
“The path forward lies in cultivating a grassroots ecumenism that transcends denominational boundaries and enables all God’s people to participate in the vision of Christian unity, reconciliation, and common mission”, stated Dr Chunakara.