For refugees, churches “need to exercise their prophetic voice”

For refugees, churches “need to exercise their prophetic voice”

iku

Wed, 07/29/2026 - 10:40

During a panel discussion on “ Shared Sacred Flourishing,” religious leaders reflected on why words aren ’ t enough, what it means to exercise a prophetic voice, and the issue of the misuse of religion.

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Panel discussion on “Shared Sacred Flourishing”, organized by Religions for Peace and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on 28 July 2026.

Photo: Marianne Ejdersten/WCC

The dialogue, on 28 July, was organized by Religions for Peace and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

H. E. Metropolitan Emmanuel, Elder Metropolitan of Chalcedon, member of the World Council of Churches (WCC) executive committee and chair of the Advisory Board of the Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities, moderated the discussion.

He noted the importance of journeying with refugees, not speaking for them. “ This essence lies hidden in the communities,” he said.

He later added, “ Words are not enough,” as he asked the speakers to briefly reflect on what more religious leaders and faith actors can do for refugees,…