13.07.2023

Youth Work Beyond Continents

Andar Parlindungan (at the head of the table) also spoke to the youth about August Theis, the first missionary in the land of the Simalungun. Photo by: UEM

A journey that opens up new perspectives: This is the youth exchange between Hagen and Simalungun.

From the end of June to the beginning of July, a delegation from the UEM member church GKPS* visited the church district of Hagen in the EKvW*. The GKPS and the district of Hagen have been in partnership for over 50 years. Every two years, young people from the district of Simalungun and Hagen visit each other within the framework of this partnership.

In addition to excursions and activities, a visit to the mission house is also part of the program: Andar Parlindungan, Executive Secretary Training & Empowerment and board member of the UEM, gives the young people an understanding of the work and history of the UEM. It is particularly important for him to reflect on partnerships: "In an egalitarian partnership, there is a spirit of togetherness in giving and taking. Paternalistic and racist attitudes can be overcome through partnership at eye level."

For their part, the youth reported on GKPS's youth work and interfaith programs. In two years, in 2025, young people from the Hagen church district will in turn visit the GKPS again.

*GKPS = Gereja Kristen Protestan Simalungun (Christian-Protestant Church of the Simalungun)

*EKvW = Evangelische Kirche von Westfalen (Evangelical Church in Westphalia)