‘Let There Be Light’: WEA Executive Chair Goodwill Shana Calls for Unity in Diversity at Global Assembly in Seoul
In a compelling address delivered at the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) General Assembly on October 27, 2025, Rev. Dr. Goodwill Shana, Executive Chair of WEA, urged a profound focus on unity in diversity among the global evangelical community. The assembly, hosted in Seoul, South Korea, gathered representatives from approximately 125 countries, highlighting a pivotal moment of unity in a world riddled with division and challenges.
Celebrating Unity Among Diversity
Dr. Shana’s message centered on the theme of “shining as one light” in a divided world, a concept rooted deeply in biblical scripture. He referenced Genesis 1:3, “And God said, Let there be light,” to illustrate how creation began with light, representing God’s transformative power. Shana emphasized that in a community overflowing with diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, this diversity is not a barrier but a strength.
Reflecting on the collaboration among Korean evangelical leaders, Shana praised their united efforts that facilitated the hosting of this global event. “There is greater unity and a greater coming together of the evangelical church,” he noted, marking the event as a beacon of harmony amidst global fragmentation.
A Metaphor for Global Evangelical Movement
Using the metaphor of light passing through a prism, Shana eloquently described the global evangelical movement. Just as a prism reveals various colors from a single beam of light, the evangelical community worldwide showcases a spectrum of cultures and languages, each maintaining its unique identity while forming a united body of Christ. He advocated for viewing this diversity as a catalyst for social and spiritual transformation, addressing global issues like poverty and injustice.
“We see people from Latin America, Oceania, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe,” Shana explained. “Each represents a color of the light of the gospel.” His vision for the WEA is clear: evangelicals united for global transformation, embodying one light in Christ while embracing diverse expressions.
Linking Past and Present for Future Change
Dr. Shana tied WEA’s current efforts to the early Church’s unity described in Acts 2, where believers of different nations unified in one spirit. “Whenever diversity found harmony, heaven was moved, and history on earth was changed,” he said. He urged the modern Church to replicate this unity, envisioning it as an instrument for influencing global change.
Drawing a powerful conclusion, Shana challenged assembly delegates to let their unique cultural and linguistic lights shine brightly, creating victory through unity in love and underscoring God’s glory rather than individual recognition.
Local Impact and Reflections
The significance of Dr. Shana’s message resonates beyond the assembly halls in Seoul, reflecting dynamically on local communities including those within the United States. For many believers, the emphasis on unity in diversity harmonizes with ongoing discussions about race, community engagement, and social justice. The call to action invites community members to reflect on how they might leverage diversity to foster inclusion and address social inequalities locally.
In the Rio Grande Valley, similar themes echo as local churches and organizations strive to tackle socio-economic challenges, resonating with Shana’s call for unity. Community leaders see this as an opportunity to strengthen interpersonal relationships and promote joint initiatives that benefit all residents, regardless of cultural or linguistic background.
A Broader Perspective
The broader Christian community maintains diverse perspectives on Shana’s address. While many embrace his vision eagerly, advocating for increased cross-cultural dialogue and partnership, some caution against potential challenges in balancing theological differences with social unity.
Dr. Teresa Galvan, a theologian and social activist, emphasized the importance of sustaining open dialogues. “Unity in diversity must be consciously practiced,” she argued. “It’s not about erasing differences but celebrating them and harnessing their potential to build a more cohesive and just community.”
Future Implications
Shana’s address potentially sets the course for future evangelical movements and collaborations, encouraging a united front in global evangelism and community-building. This approach may inspire more inclusive strategies within the church, integrating disparate voices into holistic actions for shared goals.
Ultimately, the challenge remains to continuously nurture this unity and integrate its principles into tangible community actions. As observers from “Woke News” and beyond continue to spotlight these efforts, the conversation on unity and diversity is expected to intensify, leading to meaningful transformations across local and global communities.
In this broad and multifaceted discourse, Rev. Dr. Goodwill Shana’s words serve as a timely reminder that in diversity lies the potential for profound change, not only within the church but within the broader global community.
