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Greetings by Dr. Samuel E. Chiang (Deputy Secretary General—Ministries, World Evangelical Alliance)
I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to COALA at this significant moment in its journey. I can still recall hearing it with my own ears in Panama, from the front of the stage, when a Korean speaker declared with boldness and clarity: “COALA is not Korean, it is global.” Those words are good as gold. They remind us that in the Kingdom of God our word is our bond, and they are deeply welcomed as a sign of integrity, vision, and trust.
This is indeed a new day for the global Church—a new day of a global table, of global collaboration, of the nations walking together in step with the Spirit. The Korean church, with its history of prayer and missionary zeal, is joining hands to support this process, not as the owner of COALA but as a faithful partner at the global table. For this, we give thanks.
COALA represents more than just a movement. It is a signpost of a missional reformation rooted in the Global South and extended to the whole Body of Christ. It is a reminder that we are called into mutuality, humility, and cruciform love as we pursue the Great Commission together.
We bless COALA for the days and years to come. May the Lord grant wisdom, courage, and perseverance so that this reformation will bear lasting fruit for the nations.
With gratitude and anticipation.