The Council for World Mission (CWM) officially inaugurated its Africa Office, Jubilee House, in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 18 July, bringing together church leaders, ecumenical partners, and members of the CWM family for a service of thanksgiving and dedication.
Delivering the opening message, CWM General Secretary Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum described the occasion as “much more than the opening of a new office.”
“It is a visible sign of God’s continuing work among us and our shared commitment to God’s mission in the world,” Keum said.
Keum explained that the inauguration marks another important step in CWM’s journey towards becoming a truly polycentric and decolonial mission community. CWM affirms that Africa is not simply a recipient of mission but a source of theological wisdom, prophetic leadership, and transformative witness for the global church.
He paid tribute to former CWM General Secretary Rev. Dr Des van der Water, whose vision to relocate CWM’s office to the Global South anticipated the changing landscape of world Christianity.
Keum also expressed gratitude to the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa (UPCSA) and the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) for their generous hospitality and partnership in making the Africa Office a reality.
Looking ahead to CWM’s Jubilee journey, the new office was formally named Jubilee House, reflecting its role in CWM’s continuing journey of renewal and mission.
“May this office become a centre for theological reflection, prophetic dialogue, creative collaboration, and faithful action,” Keum said.
The inauguration concluded with Holy Communion and a service of commissioning, sending participants out to accompany the marginalised, challenge injustice, and proclaim hope in Africa and beyond.
