The Lausanne Global Workplace Forum (GWF) meets in June 2019 in Manila. This is the Lausanne Movement’s next major gathering.
The GWF will bring together a diverse range of influencers to mobilize the whole church. Workers representing every corner of the workplace will gather there. Their purpose to mobilize the workforce as bearers of the gospel.
At least 50% of the participants will come from the workplace. This is the highest percentage of any major Lausanne gathering to date. Organizers seek to assure representation of voices that have typically gone unheard. They include blue-collar workers and ‘no-collar’ workers (ie those working in the home or as volunteers).
Why Gather
Participants will explore current research and resources to develop new initiatives. They will explore how all God’s people might ‘live, think, work, and speak from a biblical worldview and with missional effectiveness’ (CTC II-A-3C). Participants will also help church leaders to understand the strategic impact of ministry in the workplace. They will develop ways ‘to mobilize, equip, and send out their church members as disciple-makers in the workplace’ (CTCII-A-3D).
The Challenge
The Bible affirms that work itself is a legitimate calling of God. All occupations—and the whole of our working lives—contribute to ministry and mission.
The hope is that the 2019 Global Workplace Forum will build momentum for a new missional model. One that will enable all believers to work together toward Lausanne’s fourth vision point, kingdom impact in every sphere of society.
This vision to radically transform the whole world requires the whole church living the whole gospel.
Only then will all areas of life – including the workplace – be transformed.
Call for Participants and Nomination
This is a working gathering with engagement before, during, and after the time in Manila. The participant nomination process is open until 30 April 2018. (See the Participant Criteria and Nomination Form)
Organizers want to draw influencers from all regions of the world, across generations, and varied issue networks. At least half of the nominees will be selected from “secular workplaces” (not church and ministry organizations). At least 30% will be women and at least 30% will be drawn from younger generations.
Contact Information
This gathering is by invitation only. For questions or more information, please email gwf2019@lausanne.org.
By Phill Sandahl