Speaking in Tongues

The faith-based anti-globalization movement is learning some new words. At a recent international consultation held in Fiji by the World Council of Churches and the Pacific Conference of Churches, representatives from 29 countries laid out their vision for a just international economy. In meetings dubbed "Islands of Hope," churches brought their contributions for resisting a destructive global economy. The Africans brought ubuntu-an Africa-based movement of renaissance and reconstruction. The Indonesian church spoke of gatong, the principle of "togetherness." From the Philippines there was bayanihan-change through collective living. The Indian church presented panchasila, "great solidarity," and the Koreans discussed daedong yundae-unity. Regional meetings in Budapest and Bangkok and an international youth consultation in the Pacific preceded the Fiji conference.