Two-hundred in-person attendees from 29 different countries gathered June 9-11 at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC—with many more joining virtually—united by a shared call: to be change agents in the field of global health.
Hosted by CCIH, the biennial three-day conference invited collaboration, conversation, and community. The theme, Change Agents for All, was more than just a title—it was a guiding framework that clarified the mission behind every presentation, discussion, and interaction.
The opening ceremony set a powerful tone for the upcoming days, featuring a performance by the Liturgical Dance Ministry of St. Augustine Catholic Church and a welcome that grounded attendees in the communal heart of the event. purpose, and hope.
CCIH also honored retiring Board Chair Dick Day and Director-at-Large Rebecca Waugh for their dedicated service to the organization by presenting them with awards of appreciation. From the start, the atmosphere was one of joy,
That sense of calling continued the next morning with the opening plenary, a panel discussion exploring how faith-based organizations (FBOs) navigate complex political landscapes. Speakers emphasized that FBOs often bring flexibility and willingness to try new things that governmental bodies cannot, offering a needed space for innovations rooted in shared values and goals.
Dr. Priya John, General Secretary of the Christian Medical Association of India, (shown below) and Monsignor Robert Vitillo, Senior Advisor in the Research and Reflection Section at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, expanded the conversation in the second plenary, highlighting the role the Church plays as a change agent for all. The speakers reminded attendees of the central aspect of Christian health care: wholeness and human dignity.
“Together, our voice is loud,” Dr. John shared. “Through our Christian coalition, we make an impact.” They emphasized that real change begins at the local level, where care is personal and love is extended to all people—regardless of their beliefs.
This theme continued in daily devotionals—short reflections grounded in the theme verses from Matthew 5:13-16, which call for us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Carol Bremer-Bennett, U.S. Director of World Renew, drew on imagery from her Navajo roots, describing salt as a representation of generosity and reminding the group that our job is to burn bright in the midst of darkness. During the powerful communion ceremony, led by Reverend Bill Haley, Executive Director of Coracle, salt was presented to participants as a tangible reminder of this calling.
United in purpose: breakout session attendees say hello to a future of positive change rooted in hope!
Breakout Sessions provided space for deeper engagement, equipping attendees with new knowledge, partnerships, and practical tools to serve as Christian global health advocates. Across 12 total sessions, more than 50 speakers shared research, projects, programs, and personal stories. Subthemes included Religious Actors, Youth, Technology, and Health Systems, each explored as an individual and effective change agent.
Dr. Tonny Tumwesigye, Executive Director of Uganda Protestant Medical Bureau, presents during a fishbowl breakout session.
One session highlighted the influential role of trusted faith leaders in shaping positive social norms, correcting misuses of religious text, and supporting child development in the critical first 1,000 days of life. Other sessions emphasized similar intersections and beyond. Presentations included a variety of formats, including traditional lectures, poster sessions, and even interactive fishbowl sessions where attendees could sit with presenters to ask questions.
Notably, a representative from PEPFAR joined the conference to deliver a brief presentation and address questions. Attendees were eager for more clarity, especially during a time of both global and domestic uncertainty. She affirmed the agency’s ongoing openness to partnership: “We look forward to a future of collaboration with you.”
In addition to thought-provoking sessions, worship united the gathering in a shared spiritual practice. Songs sung in four languages celebrated the rich diversity present—not only among attendees but also as a testament to the global and inclusive nature of the Kingdom of God. In moments between sessions, community-building thrived: competitive yet connection-centered bingo, speed networking, and a playful photo booth drew smiles and sparked friendships.
Young professionals gathered for late-night bookmark-making and thoughtful conversation about the intersection of faith and public health. Sponsor tables in the main hall turned coffee breaks into connection points.
The conference concluded with a final panel discussion, a reflective session that prompted attendees to think deeply about the past few days. What do we take away? What are we bringing back? These guiding questions led panelists into a discussion on strengthening partnerships among faith-based organizations, governments, and health institutions, emphasizing the importance of trusted data and tools.
Smiles and meaningful conversation—attendees connect during a breakout session.
As attendees returned to their respective corners of the world, a final message lingered: to be change agents in a changing world, we must be salt and light, offering presence, humility, and a commitment to serve as Christ served.
About the Author: Karson Wright served as a Communications Intern for CCIH in the Summer of 2025 and is an undergraduate student at Pepperdine University. She is majoring in English with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. In the spring of 2025, she spent a semester abroad in Argentina, where she acquired Spanish language skills that she appreciated using at the CCIH conference. Karson is passionate about amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard and hopes to pursue a career that uplifts vulnerable communities through storytelling, service, and compassion.
