WCC news: WCC joins Zimbabwe churches in prayer after ferry tragedy

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, in a letter to the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and WCC member churches in Zimbabwe, expressed heartfelt solidarity to the people of Zimbabwe, and especially to the families and communities affected by the tragic ferry disaster on Lake Kariba.  Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 18 August 2026 “We have learned with profound sadness that the death toll from the capsizing of the ferry has risen to at least 92 people, with search and recovery operations continuing,” wrote Pillay. “Among those who have lost their lives are 18 children.” Behind these numbers, Pillay noted, are mothers and fathers, children and young people, relatives, friends, neighbours and members of communities whose lives have been changed forever.  “At this painful moment, we stand alongside the churches and people of Zimbabwe,” Pillay wrote. “We join you in prayer, mourning, and compassion.” He prayed that the churches may be places of refuge, consolation, and practical support for all those affected.  “We also hope and pray that an official inquiry will be undertaken, that justice and accountability will be pursued for the victims and their families, and that a comprehensive review of the policies and safety measures governing the protection of civilians will follow, so that such a tragedy may not be repeated,” Pillay urged. “May the God of compassion draw near to all who mourn.” Read the full letter 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