Ecumenical Reflexions on Political Economy. A summary of ten years
of deliberations on issues of development by an informed group of
economists, sociologists, political scientists and theologians. Compiled
by Catherine Mulholland. First published by WCC Publications,
World Council of Churches, 1988. Internet edition by Dr. Robinson Rojas

In 1978 the World Council of Churches' Commission on the Churches' Participation in Development and the Sub-unit on Church and Society jointly organized a consultation on "Political Economy, Ethics and Theology: Some Contemporary Challenges". The consultation was a major event in the process of ecumenical reflection on socio-economic matters. It led to the establishment by the CCPD of an Advisory Group on Economic Matters (AGEM). The Group has had six meetings so far, and has addressed issues like world hunger; the international financial system; labour, employment and unemployment; and transnational corporations. Three common convictions undergirded the work of the Group: that the development of people is an integral part of the gospel of salvation; that the churches have a special responsibility towards the poor and oppressed; and that development must be truly ecumenical in nature, comprehending the whole world and all peoples.

Brought together in this book is a summary of ten years of deliberations on issues of development by an informed group of economists, sociologists, political scientists and theologians.

Catherine Mulholland, a student of political science and interdisciplinary development studies, is currently a technical officer with the World Health Organization in Geneva.

Back to Cover