Ten communications representatives from Council for World Mission (CWM) member churches across the Pacific gathered in Auckland, New Zealand, from 26-28 June for the CWM Pacific Regional Communications Workshop, a three-day programme aimed at strengthening collaboration, communication, and regional partnerships.
The workshop falls within the implementation of the CWM Communications Strategy 2026–2028 and preparations for the Jubilee journey 2027–2028. It sought to strengthen interregional communication and cooperation by enhancing collaboration, mutual understanding, and practical coordination among member churches.
Opening the workshop, CWM Mission Secretary for Communications Rev. Dr Young-cheol Cheon introduced the CWM Communications Strategy 2026–2028 and outlined its key priorities, including Jubilee communications, strengthening relationships across the communion, and improving the sharing of news and digital stories.
“The Regional Communications Workshops provide an important platform for member churches to learn from one another, strengthen relationships, and explore how CWM can support them in sharing their stories with the wider communion,” Cheon said.
Throughout the workshop, participants presented the communications ministries of their respective churches, and shared opportunities and challenges they encounter. Discussions highlighted the need for stronger regional networks, greater collaboration in content sharing, and more effective use of digital platforms to communicate the church’s witness.
Practical training sessions focused on photography, video production, news writing, and digital storytelling. Participants also reviewed photo and video stories together, exchanged feedback, and explored ways to produce accessible, accurate, and mission-focused content for church and digital platforms.
A major focus of the workshop was Jubilee communications. Through group discussions and plenary sessions, participants developed a Pacific Regional Communications Action Plan, identifying practical commitments to strengthen regional collaboration, expand the sharing of news and video stories, and encourage active participation in CWM’s Jubilee journey.
The programme concluded with worship at Three Kings Congregational Church of the Congregational Union of New Zealand (CUNZ), followed by an exposure visit and media practice session. Participants departed with a shared commitment to strengthen regional communications networks and foster collaboration and engagement around Jubilee communications.
