"That All may have Life in Fullness" is the biblical theme around which the Reformed family worldwide has begun to gather itself for the 24th general council to be held in Accra, Ghana in 2004.

An adaptation of John 10.10, the theme is both a model for faithful living and a call for critical reflection on what it means to be Reformed Christians living in the 21st century.

Though the theme is essentially concerned with life, it evokes the need to contend with the forces of death and disparity that pervade our world. The whole creation yearns for fullness of life: in response we are called to a ministry of reconciliation, a mission of renewal, and a witness of more visible unity.

What are the issues we face together and how are they intertwined? What are the implications for our mutual covenant, the mission of the church and our spiritual lives?

The following are some of the challenges we confront:

Fullness of life for all: Healing

Reconciling divisions, renewing the church and overcoming the spread of diseases such as HIV/Aids are among the challenges calling the Reformed family to a ministry of healing and reconciliation.

Fullness of life for all: Honouring diversity

We are men and women of many colours, young and old from many cultures, but we are one in Christ. Most of us live and worship as religious minorities. How do Reformed Christians witness amid such pluralism?

Fullness of life for all: Inclusiveness and participation

People are excluded because of age, gender, ethnicity, disability or for other reasons. Entire nations are excluded from the international governance system. Yet the good shepherd's promise of abundant life is an inclusive one. How can our witness to faith in Jesus Christ transform exclusion?

Fullness of life for all: Peace

International conflict, civil war, urban and domestic violence are on the rise. In response churches around the world have declared 2001-2010 a "Decade to Overcome Violence". How do we lift up peace and reconciliation as a way of life?

Fullness of life for all: Gender justice

The gospel calls us to challenge Christian traditions and social norms that suppress the gifts of women. How is partnership between women and men renewing both church and society?

Fullness of life for all: Creation

The earth is the Lord's. Land, air, seas, animals and plants also rejoice on the Sabbath day of rest. How can we be better stewards of creation?

Fullness of life for all: Economic justice

The world economic system favours trade for profit over an economy for life. Debt and corruption have left many countries dependent on global financial institutions. The flow of speculative finance has increased a hundredfold while in many places families cry out for daily bread. How can the Reformed family covenant for greater economic justice?

These are some of the pressing "life issues" that Reformed Christians must bear in mind as we engage in biblical reflection on the theme "That All may have Life in Fullness". Seeking to discern God's will for our response, we are challenged to do more than issue statements and resolutions. Jesus' promise of inclusive salvation has implications for our covenant as a family of churches, for our mission among God's people and for the spiritual life of our congregations.

As we journey towards Accra 2004, the World Alliance invites Christians around the world to add their voices, naming issues, offering insight, praying earnestly and reflecting biblically on what fullness of life means and how the witness of the family of Congregational, Presbyterian, Reformed, and United churches can make a difference.

To write to us, click here.