WCC News: WCC extends condolences in wake of attack in Ethiopia

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr  Jerry Pillay, in a pastoral letter to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, extended condolences and solidarity in the wake of an attack that killed people in Arsi Zone, Ethiopia, including at least 20 who may be members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.  Prayer of Thanksgiving at the Chapel of the Ecumenical Centre after the Ethiopian churches meeting to strengthen ecumenical cooperation in responding to humanitarian needs and in promoting peace and social cohesion in Ethiopia, 30 November 2023. Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC 13 November 2025 "This senseless loss of life is a painful reminder of the fragility of peace and the urgent need for reconciliation and the protection of all communities,” wrote Pillay. “We stand in solidarity with you in this time of mourning, and we lift up in prayer all those impacted by this violence, asking the Lord to grant them comfort, healing, and strength.” The WCC condemns all acts of violence and expresses unwavering support for efforts toward justice, peace, and communal harmony, continued Pillay. “We pray for wisdom and courage for leaders at all levels to address the root causes of conflict, to promote dialogue, and to ensure the protection of human life and dignity,” he wrote. “In this time of mourning and pain, the WCC stands in unwavering solidarity with the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and with all the people of Ethiopia.” Pillay extended prayers for courage, compassion, and lasting peace. “Please be assured of our continued prayers, solidarity, and pastoral support during this grievous period,” he concluded.  WCC Letter of Condolences and Solidarity on the Tragic Killings in Arsi Zone, Ethiopia See more

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 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland