Walter Imhof
Church cooperation
Inclusion of the socially disadvantaged
In many Eastern European countries such as Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania or Ukraine, the Reformed Church is assuming social and societal responsibilities, more specifically by caring for socially disadvantaged people and those bypassed by government social services. With the support of HEKS/EPER, the Evangelical Church in the Czech Republic counsels migrant workers about claiming their rights. In Romania, Hungary and Slovakia, HEKS/EPER supports church community in their projects for the inclusion of the Roma, who face discrimination. In Romania, HEKS/EPER promotes the creation of home care services and supports victims of domestic violence as well as people with disabilities. The Reformed Churches and their institutions are gaining social recognition thanks to their diaconal work.
Andreas Schwaiger
Ecumenical dialogue
In addition to strengthening community life and solidarity within the church, yet another focus of church cooperation is the promotion of frank and unbiased dialogue between partner churches and church communities in their respective countries. Through exchange programmes and events, HEKS/EPER promotes solidarity and dialogue between Reformed Church communities in Switzerland and partner churches abroad.
Walter Imhof
