Identity and Belonging: Nationalisms and Resistance in the World Today
Cross-Regional Gathering
October 9-12, 2026
Birchwood Hotel & Conference Center
Johannesburg, South Africa
Identity and Belonging: Nationalisms and Resistance in the World Today, is designed to deepen understanding of the growing resurgence of nationalism and its profound impact on communities around the world. As ethnic, religious, racial, and political nationalisms continue to fuel exclusion, discrimination, forced migration, and injustice, Global Ministries and the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) are convening partners, staff, and church leaders in South Africa to learn from one another’s experiences and strengthen a shared commitment to justice. The gathering includes speakers and presentations and will create space for theological reflection, socio-political analysis, dialogue, and field visits that examine how nationalism is experienced in different contexts and how communities are responding with resilience and hope. By fostering global solidarity, sharing practical strategies, and equipping participants for education and advocacy, the event seeks to inspire collective action that advances inclusion, peace, and a more just, decolonized vision of God’s mission in the world.