One in Faith, One in Hope, One in Love: South Asia Forum 2025
“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
1 Corinthians 3:9
From 29 April to 2 May, church leaders, mission partners, and diocesan representatives gathered at Luther King House in Manchester for the South Asia Forum 2025. This year’s theme, “Nicene Creed: We Believe – One in Faith, One in Hope, One in Love,” marked the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a moment to celebrate the shared belief and theological foundation that continues to unite the global church. USPG, a key partner agency, was represented by The Revd Davidson Solanki and Nadia Sanchez from the Global Mission Team.
The forum brought together representatives from the Church of North India, Church of South India, Church of Pakistan, and Church of Bangladesh, alongside mission agencies such as CMS, USPG, EMS, Kirk-in-Actie. Also in attendance were church partners such as the Methodist Church, Church of Scotland and UK diocesan partners such as the Church in Wales, Diocese of Manchester, Ely link, Cambridgeshire Ecumenical link, and the Diocese of Oxford.
The gathering opened with a welcome and keynote address by The Rt Revd Dr Matthew Porter, Bishop of Bolton, who spoke on the enduring importance of the Nicene Creed and its role in shaping ecumenical identity. Participants engaged in deep listening and honest dialogue around the challenges and opportunities of living out ‘one faith’ in diverse and often complex contexts.
Sessions throughout the week focused on themes of faith, hope, and love, offering space for both theological reflection and practical discussion. Bishops and clergy shared how their churches maintain unity amid difference, and representatives from mission agencies reflected on partnership and support.
On Thursday, the focus shifted from listening to seeing. Participants visited key churches in the area – including Holy Trinity Platt, St Ann’s, Manchester Cathedral, and the newly established Fabric Church – each offering a glimpse of local mission.
Evening panels and prayers provided space to unpack and process each day. One such highlight was the closing Eucharist, led by The Rt Revd Dr David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, who reflected on the role of the Holy Spirit in his own life and ministry.
The forum was marked by warm fellowship, theological depth, and a strong sense of shared calling. A heartfelt thanks goes to Bishop Matthew, Revd George Reeves, The Revd Falak Sher, and the Diocese of Manchester team for exemplary hospitality.
As the church around the world reflects on 1700 years of the Nicene Creed, the South Asia Forum stands as a vibrant witness to the power of unity in faith and mission. The united churches in South Asia certainly offer a powerful model of Christian unity and collaboration that holds valuable lessons for the wider Anglican Communion.
Photo credits: @Diocese of Manchester