Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum, General Secretary of the Council for World Mission (CWM), visited Zomba Theological University (ZTU) in Malawi on 31 January to give a congratulatory address for the launch of the Theological Education for the Economy of Life (TEEL) Programme in partnership with ZTU.
TEEL arose from CWM’s commitment to the Ecumenical Action Plan for a New International Financial and Economic Architecture (NIFEA), a global financial and economic system that links finance to the real economy; is founded on the principles of economic, social and climate justice; accounts for social and ecological tasks; and sets clear limits to greed. NIFEA is jointly organised by CWM, the World Council of Churches, World Communion of Reformed Churches, and Lutheran World Federation.
Describing TEEL as a theological and pedagogical shift, Keum noted that the programme is an integral part of CWM’s broader vision in “decolonising theological frameworks, dismantling systems of oppression, and promoting liberation in all its forms.”
In his address, Keum also highlighted various ongoing global crises that disproportionately impact the poor, marginalised, and vulnerable—crises that demand a robust theological response and an equipped generation of theologians and activists who Keum described as being able “address systemic injustices with prophetic courage, build movements for political and economic renewal, and create life-flourishing communities that reflect God’s vision of justice, peace, and abundance.”
“TEEL aims to cultivate a generation of leaders who will act courageously to address systemic injustices and embody the Gospel’s call to solidarity and justice,” expounded Keum who further emphasised that TEEL is not merely an academic undertaking but a spiritual and moral endeavour to build a world that reflects God’s vision of justice, peace, and abundance for all.
In solidarity with the Churches of Christ in Malawi
Following his trip to ZTU, Keum also visited the Churches of Christ in Malawi (CCM) on 1 February. Besides meeting with the CCM Executive Board to discuss the continuing education programme at ZTU that is sponsored by the Presbyterian Church of Korea, Keum also engaged in discussions and dialogue with CCM leadership on enhancing the Mission Support Programmes (MSP) in CCM alongside capacity-building initiatives and community development projects.
He also met with CCM’s Moderator, Rev. Helleni Chiingeni MacDonald, and General Secretary, Rev. Lavert Makwinja, both ZTU graduates who were former recipients of CWM scholarships.
Subsequently, on 2 February, Keum attended a service at Soche East Church, a local CCM parish, as a guest preacher, concluding his four-day visit to Malawi.