Preamble: This was my first World conference. What prompted me to go to World Conference this year after so many decades as a member of Community of Christ? There is no single reason but many. I met and enjoyed conversations with (now Prophet President) Stassi Cramm and her husband Steve at Tiona reunion last year. I was touched by the enthusiasm and testimonies of Nicholas Daw and other young people as they described their IYF/Spec and Temple experiences in 2024. I felt a strong sense of belonging, which I had not had for many years, having been invited to present on my work in the summer series at Tiona reunion by Annie Falcke. Each of these aspects urged me toward attending World Conference this year. I mentioned this to Fiona Daw, my long-term friend from Mt Hut leadership camp and Drummoyne days, and it wasn’t long before she spoke of bringing her mum, Suzanne Tranter who first went to World Conference in 1960. Things came together, and I was grateful to Fiona driving me around Independence after my first few days with Adele and Harry Fielding at Bruce and Carole Lindgren’s home.
What surprised me most about attending World Conference was the emotional connection I felt when singing hymns of our church in a large congregation. The volume and power of many voices and the words of those songs are powerful. ‘This is our story, this is our song’ invoked memories of a full church at Drummoyne and church conferences in a nearby theatre (Drummoyne or Balmain) to fit everyone in. Images of people no longer with us, especially my mum and dad and nana Kath Harrisson standing next to me at church and Floyd Burdekin presiding. These memories came back to life in those moments. These vivid memories highlighted the importance of those hymns, those moments of communion and this community especially during my formative years. Perhaps I was also grieving a forgotten past of large congregations and older loved ones surrounding me. At the same time I was aware of the spirit of God continuing within an evolving community of Christ that I am proud to be part of, and where hymns are one way the past is connected to the present and future. Fiona, Suzanne and I had lively discussions when we ‘de-briefed’ each day on our drives to and from the auditorium and temple reflecting on our experiences.
Another surprising aspect was that I had thought the legislative business part of the conference would be dull or dominated by just a few voices. This was not the case at all. First there was the exemplary planning and chairing, insightful discussion and voting processes that were respectful, allowing those who wished to speak the opportunity while moving us all forward. Legislative sessions were also punctuated with moments of music, awards recognising selfless giving of time and hands-on practical effort to those in need, and reflection. Further, so many resolutions resonated with me on matters of gun violence, war and the worth of all people, and climate action. In the past, I represented Australia in the World Church Earth Stewardship team, then was involved in the Australian Earth Stewardship team led by Pat Robinson and involving Tim Prescott, Joanne McLaughlin, the late Deanna Scott and others. I was encouraged by climate action related resolutions. So I enjoyed participating in the pre-conference discussions on these climate action related motions, as well as during conference ‘lunch and learn’ sessions that were later discussed and accepted (some with amendments). There were three such resolutions: G-5 Climate Emergency – Fossil-fuel reduction from the Greater Pacific Northwest USA Mission Centre; G-10 Earth Stewardship Affirmation from the World Church Earth Stewardship Team; and G-11a Climate change emergency call to action from the World Church Human Rights team.
A final important reflection is that I loved getting to know or re-know those I felt I knew within the church, and with whom I sat during legislative sessions as Australian delegates, and at other social events. Especially important was our last night informal gathering at the Naylors' where we could reflect in a relaxed setting after a busy week. It was a hectic and enriching World Conference, leaving me with much to process. I am forever grateful that I have been, and am part of, a progressive, inclusive international church that moves out into the world to build connections to share love and support those in need that may otherwise be excluded. Giving voice to those who are voiceless in society is a timeless need, that is even more important today.
By Corinne Unger