WCC NEWS: WCC Executive Committee to hold virtual meeting, pray for world burdened by COVID-19

The World Council of Churches (WCC) Executive Committee will meet virtually on 1-3 June, offering solidarity to a world in which many find themselves in critical situations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Executive Committee plans to share information, make decisions by consensus, and assess the impact of COVID-19 on the life of the fellowship and the work of the WCC.

The committee will also review the impact of COVID-19 on the WCC’s 2020 plans and budget, establish how the Executive Committee will continue consultation and decision-making; and adopt the 2019 WCC financial report. Planning for the upcoming WCC 11th Assembly, to be held in Karlsruhe, Germany, is also on the agenda of the Executive Committee

In a  message to Executive Committee members, WCC moderator Dr Agnes Abuom said  these times are challenging to all of us.

“Please remember that this is not a meeting where we will be conducting ‘business as usual,’ ” said Abuom. “We have neither the luxury of time, nor the precious moments outside of the meeting for exchanges and being together.”

Although the meeting will focus on a smaller number of decisions than usual, a discussion forum is being provided so that the Executive Committee can post comments or questions.

“As we prepare for this meeting, we ask God to guide us through the constant presence of the Holy Spirit,” Abuom said. “We know our people and churches are suffering in many areas of the world.”

During 2021, the Central Committee meeting will be held 22-30 June, with the Executive Committee holding its meeting on 21-22 June.

WCC acting general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca has been sending monthly accountability reports to the WCC Central and Executive Committees to share information on the WCC’s focus and adjustment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Learn more about the next WCC Assembly

WCC resources on coping with the Coronavirus

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 350 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 550 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC acting general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca, from the Orthodox Church in Romania.

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