Ten participants from the Council for World Mission’s (CWM) member churches gathered in Singapore from 29 June to 4 July for the onsite orientation of the 2026 Training in Mission (TIM) programme, following six weeks of online learning.
Since its inception in 1981, TIM has equipped more than 400 young people for missional leadership in CWM member churches. The six-month programme, conducted in partnership with the Union Theological Seminary (UTS) in the Philippines, combines theological study with contextual learning and practical ministry. Participants work towards a Diploma in Mission Studies while engaging with themes including racial justice, youth activism, and an economy of life-flourishing.
Singapore: Learning through context
The Singapore programme introduced the ten participants, aged 18 to 29 and representing diverse church and cultural backgrounds, to the country’s unique social, historical, and religious landscape.
Visits to the Asian Civilisations Museum and Haw Par Villa encouraged participants to reflect on the ways history, geography, culture, and economic development shape both society and Christian mission.
“Singapore was an exciting opportunity for us to finally meet one another, build friendships, and prepare ourselves spiritually for the mission ahead,” said Ariu Reetaake from Kiribati.
Through conversations arising from these visits, participants reflected on justice, identity, purpose, and Christian witness while engaging with diverse cultures, faith traditions, and worldviews.
“Our visit to the Asian Civilisations Museum was a valuable and memorable experience,” said Susanna Cynthia from India. “It broadened our perspectives and deepened our appreciation of Asia’s rich heritage. It also inspired us to continue our mission with greater cultural awareness, understanding, and compassion.”
Witnessing through “with-ness”
Reflecting on the vision of TIM, CWM Mission Secretary for Education and Empowerment Rev. Dr Amelia Koh-Butler highlighted two key emphases of this year’s programme: recognising the unique faith journey of every participant and cultivating a model of mission rooted in “with-ness.”
“By witnessing through ‘with-nessing’, the programme seeks to affirm that education, formation, and ultimately mission are never unidirectional,” Koh-Butler said.
“It is a journey that TIM participants, CWM, and our member churches undertake together, accompanying one another in context as partners in God’s mission.”
The concept of “with-ness” encourages participants to move beyond models of mission based on doing for others towards relationships of mutual accompaniment, shared learning, and partnership.
Continuing the journey
Following the Singapore programme, participants travelled to the Union Theological Seminary in the Philippines for the next phase of their formation.
During their time in the Philippines, they will participate in field education and community immersion, deepening their understanding of the country’s social, cultural, and economic realities through contextual theological engagement.
The final phase of TIM 2026 will take place in South Africa in October before participants complete the programme and graduate in early November.
