On August 20, 2024, the Department of Christian Civilization, University of Jaffna, hosted an official visit from the Student Christian Movement of Sri Lanka (SCMSL). The delegation included Rev. Nilushan Herath (Co-General Secretary), Mr. Timothy Kumarathunga (Treasurer), and Rev. V. Daniel Jeyaruban (Jaffna Regional Coordinator). This meeting served as a platform for ecumenical dialogue and student engagement, reinforcing the department’s commitment to theological education, social responsibility, and interfaith cooperation.
The discussions centred on ecumenical endeavours, highlighting the need for Christian communities to work together across denominational lines to address contemporary challenges. A key outcome of the meeting was the invitation extended by SCMSL to the department to participate in a three-day inter-university workshop from October 11–13, 2024, under the theme ‘Ecumenical Leadership Formation for Climate Justice.’
The workshop aims to bring together students from various universities to explore the intersection of faith, ecology, and social responsibility. The sessions will focus on Ecumenical Dialogue and Climate Change Mitigation Strategies, fostering leadership skills rooted in Christian values. Recognizing the significance of such an initiative in making the study of Christianity multi-dimensional, the Department of Christian Civilization accepted the invitation and expressed enthusiasm for active participation.
Beyond the workshop, the meeting also addressed key student concerns, reinforcing the department’s ongoing support for student growth – both academically and spiritually. This encounter reaffirmed the Department of Christian Civilization’s dedication to ecumenical cooperation and its mission to equip students with a deeper understanding of faith in action.
