News releases

A Week of Joy and Struggle The World Communion of Reformed Churches began to wrap up its 10-day meeting on Friday by addressing and adopting a number of priorities on which the new organization will focus. (28.06.2010)
Pope offers good wishes to WCRC Pope Benedict XVI has been one of several church leaders who have acknowledged the newly organized World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC). The pope sent a letter to the new organization as well as a representative of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. (28.06.2010)
WCRC Creates a ‘New Thing’ for God’s People In a spirit of unity and cooperation, the newly formed World Communion of Reformed Churches made several decisions, “heard the Gospel of reconciling love,” and prepared itself to respond “in joyful hope” to a range of issues in churches and the world, the WCRC said in a final message statement issued Saturday. (28.06.2010)
Reformed churches send special message to children The Uniting General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches ended as it began: with a special message to children welcoming them to the new “family” of 80 million Reformed Christians worldwide that was created in Grand Rapids, United States on 18 June. (28.06.2010)
Church musician killed following international church gathering Indonesian church musician, Christina Mandang, has died from injuries sustained when hit by a car on the closing day of a global church gathering in Grand Rapids, United States. (28.06.2010)
Strengthening communion – deepening dialogue UGC News interviewed Gottfried Locher, the treasurer of the new WCRC Executive Committee, about the significance of this Uniting General Council and the tasks facing the WCRC. Just two weeks ago Gottfried Locher was elected as the new President of the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches, which has two million members. (28.06.2010)
Officers of new global Reformed organisation elected Delegates to the Uniting General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) have elected four regional vice-presidents, a general treasurer and 16 members to its Executive Committee. The vote followed immediately on the election of the organisation’s new president, Jerry Pillay of the Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. (25.06.2010)
The gift of time and space, of dance and repose Pray: for the freedom to use the national language in Christian worship; that Bibles using "Allah" for God will not be seized by the government. (25.06.2010)
United We Stand Fifteen years ago no one expected this week would ever happen. (25.06.2010)
Accra Confession a Hot Topic at WCRC Meeting Fabia Gutierrez is very hopeful that the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) will decide to accept and work to implement aspects of the Accra Confession. (25.06.2010)
South African Church Leader Elected President of WCRC Jerry Pillay came to the Uniting General Council in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from South Africa as simply one of hundreds of delegates. (25.06.2010)
Nothing About Us Without Us Carolyn Thompson knows how perception can affect a person’s attitude about disability. She has lived her life with a facial difference due to radiation treatment as an infant. (24.06.2010)
“Rescue the Christian faith from the cowboys,” Native American tells churches “We have to rescue the Christian faith from the cowboys,” says Native American educator Richard Twiss, a member of the Lakota Sioux Rosebud Tribe. (24.06.2010)
Do you have Calvin on the brain? As a lifelong Presbyterian, I approached the Calvin Neuron Factor test with fear and trembling. Would I be exposed as a pagan? A heretic? A Baptist? (24.06.2010)
Pilgrimage from the Past For many delegates at the Uniting General Council in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, one of the most striking displays in the foyer is the long banners that trace the hundred years of mission, starting with the Edinburgh 1910 Missionary Conference until the present day. (23.06.2010)
Speaker calls for truth and reconciliation commission A renowned Native American leader today appealed to the newly-created World Communion of Reformed Churches to establish a truth and reconciliation-like commission to “seek ways to make restitution to tribal people” for the churches’ complicity in “co-opting the Bible as a tool of colonialism and imperialism” in North America over the last 400 years. (23.06.2010)
Drums mark first global Pow Wow in Midwest American city The sky, which had been dark and ominous only hours before, was filled with sunshine and white clouds as a group of Native Americans crossed a pedestrian bridge over the Grand River and approached leaders of the newly formed World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) who waited at the other end. (23.06.2010)
Native American Sees Link With Christianity Mike Peters, pastor of 4 Fires Ministry in Grand Rapids, Michigan and a member of the Odawa tribe, says the Bible is his plumb line. (22.06.2010)
Ecumenical Pioneer Dies Delegates to the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) have taken time from doing their ecumenical business to mourn the death of Rev. Nico Smith, an ecumenical pioneer from South Africa. (22.06.2010)
Native Americans to Welcome WCRC Delegates with Pow Wow Early on, it seemed that the Native American presence at the Uniting General Council would be minimal, perhaps limited to having Native Americans make statements and offer gifts of welcome to delegates who have come from all over the world to Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the upper Midwest of the United States, to form the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC). (22.06.2010)
Goooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaal !!!!!!!!!!!! Look at these enthusiastic Brazilians and Chileans, despairing Englishmen and Italians, and how disappointed those Germans are, and the South Africans and Australians; look at the smiling Dutch and South Koreans, how thrilled the Swiss were – at least until yesterday … (22.06.2010)
Children help usher in new era for Reformed churches About 3,000 Reformed Christians gathered at Calvin College Sunday for a worship service celebrating the birth of the World Communion of Reformed Churches, which unites 80 million believers in 108 countries. (21.06.2010)
Stately Service Impresses WCRC Delegates Several African delegates to the newly constituted World Communion of Reformed Churches worshipped Sunday morning inside the stately sanctuary of Central Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the upper Midwest of the United States. (20.06.2010)
WCC Official Hopes For Joint Efforts with WCRC Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), had no intention of missing the recent merger of the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) into the World Communion of Reformed Churches. (20.06.2010)
Unity, Peace, and Justice Are Linked In a keynote presentation on Saturday morning at a meeting of the newly formed World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), four panelists urged delegates, observers and visitors to walk the walk and not just talk the talk when it comes to the issues of unity, diversity, social justice and peace. (19.06.2010)
WCRC Springs to Life The World Communion of Reformed Churches, the marriage between two worldwide Reformed organizations, took place Friday amidst prayer and praise and words of joy in Van Noord Arena on the campus of Calvin College in Grand Rapids in the northeastern United States. (19.06.2010)
A “new beginning” for Reformed churches For Maria McDaid, Friday’s opening of the Uniting General Council culminates nearly a year of excited anticipation. (18.06.2010)
Women, youth find fellowship before UGC Prior to Friday’s opening of the Uniting General Council (UGC), women and youth from around the world met this week at Calvin College to share ideas and prepare for the historic ecumenical event. (18.06.2010)
World Communion of Reformed Churches is Born More than 80 million Reformed Christians in 108 countries around the world formally united Friday when the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) approved articles of union and a constitution bringing them together as the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC). (18.06.2010)
Young theologians learn from the school of life They come from India, Kenya, Malawi and beyond. At first glance, their lives and contexts are very different. But the 43 students in a unique theology seminar in the United States are quickly learning that they share common challenges. (17.06.2010)
Women's Pre-Council: Taking the Jesus bus to poverty Under the motto, “Come with Jesus into the streets,” delegates to the Women’s Pre-Council were invited to get to know Grand Rapids, Michigan from the “other side.” (17.06.2010)
Accra Confession: a covenant of justice From financial meltdown in the United States to the earthquake in Haiti, the world’s economic and ecological crises cry out for Christians to get involved, say church leaders meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the northeastern United States this week. (17.06.2010)
Life as a steward Making new friends for the first time has always proven difficult for me. What makes it even harder for an 18-year old born in Guyana, a small country on the northern coast of South America, is making new friends in a new country. (16.06.2010)
Reformed Women Gather in Grand Rapids With an expected 150 registered delegates, the Women’s Pre-Council is gathering both women and a few men from the entire world in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this week. (15.06.2010)
Moving against the current: two global church networks merge The world’s two largest networks of Protestant churches in the Reformed tradition are meeting in Grand Rapids in the northeastern United States June 18 - 26 to found a new organization signaling a new level of relationship between two families of churches once divided from each other. (07.06.2010)
Church radio journalists charged Concern is mounting for eight radio journalists and technicians detained in Madagascar last week. The eight work for Radio Fahazavana, a church-supported station in the nation’s capital, Antananarivo. BBC reports that on Friday the group was formally charged with threatening state security. The radio station has been shut down and its equipment confiscated by government officials. (31.05.2010)
New Reformed church organization to be launched at global assembly in the United States The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) are coming together in a new union representing more than 80 million Reformed Christians worldwide – the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC). (21.05.2010)
American Indian religious educator to address global church event A respected American Indian religious educator and cultural consultant is to be a featured speaker at an international gathering of Reformed churches in the United States this June. Richard Twiss, a member of the Rosebud Lakota/Sioux Tribe, will address the founding meeting of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) in Grand Rapids. (22.04.2010)
Tributes pour in for American Indian leader, Wilma Mankiller Tributes from Reformed church leaders are pouring in for Wilma Mankiller, an American Indian rights advocate who died Tuesday at 64 after a brief illness. Mankiller, a member of the Cherokee Nation in the United States, was scheduled to be a keynote speaker this June at a global assembly of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) in Grand Rapids, United States. (08.04.2010)
Theologians draft manifesto for church unity and justice An international panel of pastors and theologians is drafting a “manifesto” on church unity and social justice for a new global organization of Reformed churches. The text is to be presented in June to the Uniting General Council (UGC) of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) in Grand Rapids, United States. (10.03.2010)
Jesus Bus carries International Women’s Day Message into 2010 On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) calls upon churches to recognize the gifts of women, to celebrate the fruits of their labour and to increase efforts to remove barriers to equality and partnership. (04.03.2010)
Kenyan situation offers a case study on need for justice-building skills in churches Violence in Kenya following elections in 2007 has become a case study for a church-sponsored workshop in eastern Kenya designed to promote peaceful and respectful relations between men and women in church and society. (12.02.2010)
“We are committed to justice,” say Reformed church leaders Leaders of two global networks of Reformed churches set to merge in June have issued a statement declaring their commitment to a continued focus on justice concerns following the merger. The text includes specific reference to racial justice. (10.02.2010)
Caribbean book is a cry for life A new publication on economic and ecological justice by church-based economists and justice advocates in the Caribbean region is a call to action for churches worldwide according to the Guyanese editor of the book. (19.01.2010)
A woman pastor creates hymn for Haiti An American pastor has written a hymn for the people of Haiti in the wake of the devastating earthquake which hit the Caribbean country earlier this week. (15.01.2010)
Middle East Protestants work together in troubled region Christian unity in the Middle East is an oasis of hope in the midst of difficult circumstances says a senior Protestant leader. In an address to church leaders from the region, Setri Nyomi, General Secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), praised cooperative efforts to minister to victims of violence and economic deprivation. (15.01.2010)
Martin Luther King Jr. inspires church actions for racial and economic justice As Americans prepare to celebrate Martin Luther King Day marking the life and achievements of the influential African-American pastor who campaigned in the 1960’s for an end to racial segregation in the United States, church leaders from North America and the Caribbean are gathering to plan campaigns to overcome racial and economic injustices which persist today. (14.01.2010)
American sisters pen winning song about peace and unity for global church event A song written by two sisters from the eastern United States has won an international competition to compose the theme music for the Uniting General Council, a global gathering of representatives of Reformed Churches which is to be held in Grand Rapids, United States, in June 2010. (09.12.2009)
New publication honours Milan Opočenský A series of international theological conferences initiated by historic peace churches and Protestant churches in Europe which pre-date the 16th century Reformation is the subject of a new publication by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches. (09.12.2009)
Media registration for Uniting General Council 2010 is now underway Journalists are invited to register to cover the Uniting General Council of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches and the Reformed Ecumenical Council to be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA from June 18 to June 28, 2010. (09.12.2009)
Mission Pilot project gets results Pastors and lay leaders from three continents meeting in Buenos Aires, Argentina last week shared stories of how they interpret mission in their context today. The meeting in the Argentinean capital was part of a two-year study on (20.11.2009)
Registration deadline for Global Institute of Theology approaching Theology students with an interest in ecumenism and mission are invited to apply to attend the Global Institute of Theology (GIT) which is scheduled for 04 - 26 June 2010 in the United States. The deadline for receiving applications is 1 December. (05.11.2009)
Korean student wins Lombard Prize for study of Calvin and ecology A Korean theology student has won the 2009 Lombard Prize for his study of the implications of John Calvin’s theology for the current ecological and economic crisis. (02.11.2009)
Tree planting marks Reformation Day Twenty years ago tomorrow, Christians in the former East Germany gathered in Wittenberg to celebrate Reformation Day at the church where on 31 October 1517 Martin Luther is said to have nailed his list of demands for reform of the Roman Catholic Church. Ten days later, the Berlin wall fell and a new era of reform began in modern-day Europe with repercussions felt around the world. (30.10.2009)
Public response to Calvin Jubilee exceeds expectations Celebrations in 2009 of the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Protestant reformer, John Calvin, were a resounding success according to an assessment by the international committee which coordinated Calvin09 Jubilee activities. (22.10.2009)
Lew Mudge memorial pays tribute to “the leading ecumenist of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) A memorial service in tribute to Lewis (“Lew”) S. Mudge, a leading 20th century Presbyterian theologian, ethicist and ecumenist, is to be held today at Nassau Presbyterian Church in Princeton, United States. Mudge died on 11 September in his home in Berkeley, California at the age of 79 following a long and distinguished career in ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. (19.10.2009)
WARC congratulates Obama on Nobel Peace Prize The General Secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, Setri Nyomi, has sent a letter of congratulations to Barrack Obama following the announcement Friday that the President of the United States has been awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. (12.10.2009)
Renowned theologian, ecumenist Lew Mudge dies Justice advocate taught at McCormick, San Francisco seminaries (17.09.2009)
Strong emphasis on need for action by Christians against economic and ecological injustice Strong emphasis was laid on action by Christians to fight the injustices of the global economy and to seize the opportunity presented by the near-collapse of its financial system to change world institutions, in a message of an ecumenical conference at Willow Park in Johannesburg, South Africa. (11.09.2009)
The time is right for a movement for economic justice South African tells church network The global financial crisis is a golden opportunity for a movement for economic justice according to a South African businesswoman and political economist. (07.09.2009)
Reformed church consultation in South Africa to analyse impact of global economic crisis A global gathering set to get underway this week in Johannesburg, South Africa, will bring together members of Reformed churches worldwide who believe churches must be active in advocacy for economic justice and environmental protection. (02.09.2009)
Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu told protecting the environment is God’s will The Presbyerian Church of Vanuatu will be following God’s will by taking a leading role in efforts to reverse the effects of climate change according to the leader of a global alliance of Reformed churches. (24.08.2009)
Pakistani church leader appeals for support, citing “grave situation” for Christians in Korian The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has released the text of an appeal by a Christian church leader from Pakistan pleading for assistance in response to violence against Christians in that country. (31.07.2009)
Youth rap with Calvin John Calvin wore sun glasses and rapped his story to the tune of the popular music classic, (28.07.2009)
Globalization we can grasp Christians are increasingly articulate critics of economic, social and environmental abuse. What is often missing for ordinary people in those critiques is an idea of what they can do to make a difference at home, in their parishes and in the broader community. (21.07.2009)
Celebrate John Calvin as an inspiration not a saint say Reformed church leaders As Reformed churches worldwide prepare to celebrate the 500th anniversary on 10 July of the birth of Protestant Reformation leader, John Calvin, leaders of a global movement of Reformed churches have issued a statement calling on Christians to commemorate Calvin not as a saint but as a source of inspiration for responding to contemporary social and environmental concerns. (08.07.2009)
Calvin made Geneva the international city it is today say Reformed churches A church service in Geneva on 10 July to mark the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Protestant Reformation pioneer, John Calvin, will focus on the French Reformer’s impact on the international outreach and profile of his adopted city. (07.07.2009)
It’s time for youth in Lithuanian church to play David and confront Goliath Youth should be entrusted with church leadership positions a senior Reformed church executive has told leaders of the Evangelical Reformed Church of Lithuania. (24.06.2009)
South African hails American church vote to confess racism as a sin A South African church leader is hailing a move by an American church to require members to confess racism as a sin. (09.06.2009)
Korean Church leader suggests « ecumenical tithing » The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK) has told members of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) that he believes churches should be motivated to engage in a movement for “ecumenical tithing”. (05.06.2009)
New Reformed movement will open local congregations to global connections Representatives of member churches from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) have agreed to recommend merging as a global “communion” - a move they believe will have a direct and positive impact on local congregations worldwide. (04.06.2009)
Reformed church Christians propose sacramental union Representatives of Reformed, United and Presbyterian churches from diverse traditions have voted to form a union which is unprecedented in its inclusiveness and overcomes longstanding divisions among some churches. (02.06.2009)
Broadcast of Calvin celebration service draws two million viewers A South African and a Scot are the English voices for the Eurovision telecast of a worship service broadcast live in French from Geneva’s Cathedral Saint-Pierre on Pentecost Sunday in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin. (31.05.2009)
Declaration by German churches in 1934 inspires Reformed churches today The actions of a group of German church members in 1934 to resist the Nazi regime still serve as a powerful model for churches today according to the General Secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (28.05.2009)
Korean students prepare for ministry via “travelling theology” A Korean professor who has taken theology students to live with nomadic herders in Mongolia and with the urban poor in Viet Nam believes he may be creating a new branch of theology, one which he has dubbed « Travelling Theology ». (27.05.2009)
Pre-Christian values can help shape modern Christianity says Indonesian theologian Villagers in Indonesia are drawing on pre-Christian traditions to shape modern Christian responses to community problems. Through a project in a rural area of South Sulawesi, a Reformed church theologian is working with subsistence farmers to transform ancient traditions into solutions to modern day challenges. (26.05.2009)
Church people in Zambia use popular media to influence European Union trade negotiations In a groundbreaking initiative, the United Church of Zambia is using street theatre and broadcast media to encourage church members to get involved in efforts to influence negotiations between the European Union and their country on trade issues. (25.05.2009)
Message of 16th century French theologian addresses religious conflicts today The lessons of a 16th century theologian born in France speak directly to a post-modern world hungry for peaceful and united communities according to the president of a global network of Protestant churches. (22.05.2009)
Reformed churches must be heard in the corridors of power It is time for Reformed churches to be heard in the places where the powerful make decisions, says a Colombian church leader. (20.05.2009)
Reformed church Christians invade Geneva to celebrate Calvin Christians from around the world are flocking to Geneva, Switzerland to celebrate the birth of the pioneer church reformer, John Calvin. It was from his base in Geneva that the 16th century humanist and theologian spread the ideas of biblically-inspired social reform which shaped the early church reformation movement. (19.05.2009)
Global Reformed church leaders celebrate Calvin by planning merger The 16th century Reformer, John Calvin, continues to influence the Christian church today. At an historic meeting in Geneva, Switzerland later this month, leaders of two global Reformed church organizations will gather to plan their merger into one worldwide communion of churches. (13.05.2009)
The Lombard Essay Competition 2009 What Would Calvin Say? Responsible Stewardship in the Face of Today’s Ecological and Financial Crises (10.05.2009)
Caribbean churches seek insight from Cuban model in economic hard times Economists and church representatives from the Caribbean say the economic crisis has provoked increased levels of crime and violence in the region and led to the destruction of social safety nets. (30.04.2009)
Durban Review Conference declaration “a moral compass” says Namibia’s prime minister The prime minister of Namibia is calling the final declaration of the Durban Review Conference a moral compass that should inspire global citizens by its moral authority. (23.04.2009)
Website points way to event marking launch of new global Reformed church movement The Uniting General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches has put up a new website that focuses on the activities that will occur before, during and after the creation of the new Reformed Church body that will represent some 75 million Christians around the world. (01.04.2009)
Madagascar crisis: CWM and WARC make solidarity visit Leaders from the Council for World Mission (CWM) and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) have shown solidarity with their member church in Madagascar by making a special visit to its headquarters in the capital, Antananarivo. (30.03.2009)
Church organizations appeal for calm in Madagascar The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Council for World Mission (CWM) are appealing for calm in Madagascar following a change of government after weeks of violence in the country. (19.03.2009)
Madagascar: Church leader calls on Christians in military not to kill The leader of the largest Protestant church in Madagascar has issued an appeal to Christian soldiers in the military not to commit murder. In a message broadcast repeatedly this morning on the radio station of the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar, Rev. Lala Rasendrahasina is calling on Christians in the military not to commit violence. (17.03.2009)
WARC delegation urges South African Reformed Churches to keep hope alive in stalled unification talks Senior leaders of the Reformed church movement, while lamenting the painful difficulties that have stalled unity talks among four Reformed churches in South Africa, hold out hope for reunification to become a reality. (10.03.2009)
Swiss Reformed church women honour Kenyan theologians Women in the Reformed churches of Switzerland are honouring two Kenyan women theologians whose work is aimed at overcoming barriers to the ordination of women in the Reformed Church of East Africa. Esther Mombo and Dorcas Chebet Wamalwa received the Sylvia Michel prize of USD 5’000 at a celebration in the Canton of Argovia in eastern Switzerland on International Women’s Day (March 8). (10.03.2009)
WARC welcomes statements made at the World Social Forum in Brazil The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has issued a statement of support in response to a declaration by a representative of the World Council of Churches (WCC) that the global economic crisis offers an opportunity to create a more just financial system. (20.02.2009)
“Religious beliefs shape masculine behaviours”: Interfaith panel Religious beliefs have a profound influence in shaping the consciousness of men and their concepts of masculinity and sexuality, members of an interfaith panel have told participants at an event in Georgetown, Guyana, focussed on seeking ways of promoting positive masculinity. Religious institutions prescribe boundaries, impose sanctions and affirm identity, the panellists said. (20.02.2009)
American Indian leaders invited to mark launch of new global Reformed church organization Leaders of American Indian tribes are being invited to participate in celebrations in the United States to mark the launch of a new global church organization. The invitation comes in response to a recommendation by representatives of local American Indian groups to senior Reformed church leaders gathered last week in Grand Rapids, Michigan to plan the founding meeting of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) in that city in June 2010. (20.02.2009)
The world seems immune to the stench of violence against women says global church organization The economic crisis is putting women at higher risk of violence yet the world is paying less attention to their needs, says a global church organization. In a statement issued to mark International Women’s Day (8 March), the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) expresses concern that violent crimes against women, particularly rape and domestic violence, are on the rise at the same time that support for programmes to protect women is under threat. (11.02.2009)
END THE VIOLENCE IN GAZA As the number of deaths in Gaza rises, the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) is calling on all parties involved in the fighting to end the violence and agree to an immediate cease-fire. In a statement released today, leaders of Geneva-based organization stressed the urgent need to open the borders of Gaza to humanitarian aid and medical assistance for the sick and wounded. (16.01.2009)
WARC APPOINTS NEW HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has appointed a new Executive Secretary for Communications. Ms Kristine Greenaway of The United Church of Canada began work in the organization’s secretariat in Geneva on 5 January. She replaces John Asling who served previously in the position. (07.01.2009)
Christian leaders say justice must be at heart of global economy Asserting that the economies of the United States and other countries supporting the global free trade structure are crumbling, a group of Christian leaders have said it is time to put economic justice and ecological sustainability at the heart of faith. (15.12.2008)
Reformed churches in Africa intensify commitment to justice Reformed churches from across Africa have intensified their commitment to resist the evils of neoliberal economic globalization and empire, which continue to ravage the continent. (08.12.2008)
Request for Prayer from the Church of Christ in Thailand Dear Friends, (01.12.2008)
Women’s research project in Kenya receives 2008 Sylvia Michel Prize Researchers studying the exclusion of women from the ordained ministry of a Kenyan church have won the 2008 Sylvia Michel Prize for Women in Leadership. (25.11.2008)
WARC leaders visit Northeast Asia churches Leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) have completed a three-week pastoral visit to Northeast Asia, calling it an important time of listening to a significant branch of the Reformed family. (24.11.2008)
Unity of churches will make the world believe in peace, WARC leader declares Threats to peace and security around the world ought to give urgency to the quest for Christian unity, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (19.11.2008)
Economic systems must serve the needs of ordinary people, WARC churches say A new global economic order that puts people first is urgently needed to help the poor, says the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) following a meeting of the G20 nations on the worldwide financial crisis in Washington. (18.11.2008)
Geneva exhibition shows Calvin approved of laughter and wine The 16th-century Reformation figure Jean Calvin is often portrayed as a stern Protestant but an exhibition in Geneva of selected passages from his writings shows a dimension of the reformer that many people do not know. (18.11.2008)
An Appeal by the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan To the global church family, for prayers concerning the abuse of justice and violation of human rights in Taiwan. (14.11.2008)
Urgent Call: Protect the Right to Life, Dignity and Democracy in Zimbabwe! We the leaders of the World Council of Churches, Lutheran World Federation, World Alliance of Reformed Churches, World YWCA and the World Student Christian Federation, enjoined by the Zimbabwe Advocacy Office in Geneva, hereby make this solemn and urgent statement in the wake of the latest Extra-Ordinary Summit of the SADC Heads of States on the crises in Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo. (14.11.2008)
Words of Calvin on display in Geneva exhibition The words of Reformation figure John Calvin will come alive again at the Calvin09 Exhibition to be held at the Ecumenical Centre in Geneva 17 November to 19 December. (13.11.2008)
Inauguration of the calvin09 year The calvin09 year which celebrates the 500th anniversary of the birth of Jean Calvin has been inaugurated in front of the Reformers’ Wall in Geneva by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches and the Protestant Church of Geneva. (03.11.2008)
Setri Nyomi is 2008 Distinguished Alumnus at Princeton Theological Seminary Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), was honoured by Princeton Theological Seminary on 24 October as the school’s 2008 Distinguished Alumnus. (27.10.2008)
Ecumenical consultation demarcates common ground for dialogue with Islam Christian communities should improve their knowledge of Islam, be good neighbours to Muslims and bear witness to their faith in an appropriate manner, according to an international group of church leaders and experts on Christian-Muslim dialogue. (22.10.2008)
LUTHERAN-REFORMED JOINT COMMISSION Buenos Aires, Argentina (22.10.2008)
Act for justice in the Calvin Jubilee year, Reformed pastors urge Twenty-seven senior pastors from Reformed Protestant congregations in eight countries gathered in Geneva from 13 to 17 October to focus on the relevance of reformer John Calvin in their pastoral ministries today. (21.10.2008)
A call for prayers for the people of Iraq From the President and General Secretary of WARC (13.10.2008)
Alliance of Reformed Churches and the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches at a joint meeting in Berne. The Jubilee Year “calvin09” for the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Reformer Jean Calvin has an official hymn. (13.10.2008)
A significant moment for reconciliation of Reformed church groups The creation of the 80 million-member World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) marks an opportunity “to reinvigorate Reformed witness” in a fractured world, says one of the architects of the union. (08.10.2008)
WARC and REC governing bodies meet for the first time in Utrecht Members of the governing bodies of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) will meet in joint sessions for the first time from 6 to 10 October in Utrecht. (29.09.2008)
Churches have a role to play in helping men become better partners Patriarchy has been the dominant influence in shaping men and oppressing women, a workshop sponsored by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the World Council of Churches (WCC) has concluded. (23.09.2008)
Calvin’s greeting for the Luther Decade In a recently discovered letter the Swiss Reformer Jean Calvin greets his German colleague Martin Luther on Luther’s decade which begins on 21 September. (19.09.2008)
An urgent appeal for prayers Concerning India, the United States and the Caribbean (05.09.2008)
Engage the powers of destruction, churches urged by international feminist theologians An international group of feminist theologians has issued a dramatic call to churches to engage the world’s destructive powers, stating it is crucial to hear feminist thinking in the debate on theological issues raised by empire. (18.08.2008)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches and Disciples look at closer ties A meeting of World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and Disciples Ecumenical Consultative Council (DECC) leaders should pave the way for a closer relationship between the two organizations. (11.08.2008)
Global ecumenical leaders speak out on the Zimbabwe political parties’ pact A coalition of church organizations that includes the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has congratulated the signatories of an agreement that paves the way for the sharing of power in Zimbabwe but also raised concerns about continuing violence and human rights violations. (24.07.2008)
Mission Project team: a catalyst in South African church’s mission Congregations in South Africa have been surprised by the Reformed mission team they invited to work with them. (18.07.2008)
Making a Difference Project links mission and justice through literacy “I want to be able to write the name that God gave me,” 63 year old Grace said, when asked why she enrolled in the Making a Difference Project (MADIP) literacy programme in Franschhoek, South Africa. (01.07.2008)
Pray for the people of Zimbabwe on Sunday 22 June Reports of the intimidation, torture and death of opponents of Zimbabwe’s government have prompted a call for a day of prayer on Sunday 22 June among the worldwide Reformed family of churches. (19.06.2008)
Scholarships help women prepare for ordination Eight women from Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific have been awarded scholarships from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) to help them prepare for the ordained ministry in their churches. (09.06.2008)
Spiritual renewal, mission and prophetic action mark the Reformed church family Reformed Christians around the world are living out their faith in a variety of relevant ways, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (02.06.2008)
Douwe Visser is WARC’s new Theology Secretary Dutch theologian and pastor Douwe Visser, 54, is the new Executive Secretary for Theology and Ecumenical Engagement for the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). He joins the Geneva secretariat on 2 June 2008. (02.06.2008)
Seek spirituality that energizes and sustains justice movements A wide array of justice movements around the world are challenging churches to create new kinds of spirituality that will sustain them as they struggle against empire. (26.05.2008)
Myanmar's Christians face an uncertain future General secretary of the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar Rev. Dr. Lalengzauva speaks of the effects of Cyclone Nargis on the Christian community in Yangon. (23.05.2008)
Churches accept challenge of bringing healing to strife-torn Kenya Be part of the healing of your nation, Reformed Christians from two Kenyan churches were urged during a recent visit by Setri Nyomi, the general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (22.04.2008)
Africa consultation on the Accra Confession calls for stand against world disorder A rich minority is working to dispossess the poor, creating food and fuel price increases as well as chaos and corruption, says a group of 25 Reformed theologians and church leaders from Africa in a consultation ending in Pretoria today. (21.04.2008)
Pray for the people of Zimbabwe, WARC general secretary urges The general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) is calling today on the worldwide Reformed family to pray for Zimbabwe on the occasion of its 28th Independence Day. (18.04.2008)
Lukas Vischer: a tower of strength and a sharp theological mind The death of renowned Swiss theologian Lukas Vischer on 11 March marks the end of an era but his legacy will live on, Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) said in a tribute today. (17.03.2008)
Tributes flow for Lukas Vischer, Swiss pioneer of church unity Lukas Vischer, a Swiss Reformed theologian who pioneered 20th century church unity efforts and later became a forthright campaigner for the environmental cause, has died in Geneva at the age of 81. (13.03.2008)
Women challenged to create a better world in WARC’s International Women’s Day message Women are being challenged to bring about a world of justice and human rights in the International Women’s Day 2008 message of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) released in Geneva today. (07.03.2008)
How does Calvin sound? Media release Berne/Geneva, 3 March 2008 (05.03.2008)
End the economic embargo of Cuba, Reformed church leaders demand Reformed church leaders from the Caribbean and North America have called for the lifting of the United States’ economic embargo against Cuba in the interest of justice and right relationships. (29.02.2008)
Kenya crisis a warning, WARC president tells Guyana gathering The crisis in Kenya should serve as a warning for churches to be prophetic leaders in their communities, says Clifton Kirkpatrick, the president of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (26.02.2008)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches Supports Peace Efforts in Kenya The World Council of Churches (WCC) was recently asked by Christian leaders in Kenya to send representatives to their country in order to support churches in areas where peace is threatened. (11.02.2008)
Reparation needed to address transatlantic slave trade Churches and society at large need to offer reparation to descendants of those enslaved, tortured and murdered by the transatlantic slave trade, says an international conference sponsored by three major ecumenical organizations. (17.12.2007)
Conference commemorates slaves, challenges today’s slavery An ecumenical commemoration of the millions of Africans who died in the holocaust of the transatlantic slave trade is also highlighting the continuing oppression of their descendants around the world. (11.12.2007)
Connect with those who struggle for food and freedom, European Christians urged European Christians have been challenged by a Reformed church speaker from the South to connect spiritually with other cultures while assessing their own history and plotting the future of the continent. (10.12.2007)
GREED, OVERPRODUCTION AND OVER-CONSUMPTION ARE SINFUL, SAY AFRICAN CHRISTIANS A severe reminder (16.11.2007)
Show your gratitude with justice, Reformed leader urges Be grateful to God by living lives of justice, Reformed leaders from around the world and Presbyterians from Trinidad and Tobago were urged Sunday at the closing worship of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) Executive Committee meeting. (28.10.2007)
WARC favours United States for site of Uniting General Council World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) leaders are calling for their Uniting General Council with the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) to be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, 18 to 28 June 2010. (27.10.2007)
Going global on economic and ecological justice The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) moved Friday to increase its global reach on economic and ecological justice issues. (27.10.2007)
World Communion of Reformed Churches suggested as name for new Reformed group The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has taken a number of important steps along the road to its merger with the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC). (27.10.2007)
Rainbow of religions is an opportunity for church Pluralistic societies offer the church both opportunity and challenge, the moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and Tobago told leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) Wednesday. (26.10.2007)
Sacred journey marks abolition of transatlantic slave trade A sacred journey from slave sites in Africa to the Caribbean was marked in October as Reformed church leaders from around the world commemorated the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade by the British Parliament. (25.10.2007)
New Reformed body to be formed The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) today agreed to unite with the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC) to create a new global Reformed body representing more than 80 million Reformed Christians worldwide. (22.10.2007)
We are better together, Reformed church leaders told Reclaim the unity Christ has given us, the head of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) urged on the opening day of a critical Executive Committee meeting dealing with unity issues. (20.10.2007)
Move towards communion – for justice sake, WARC leaders urge The president of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has called for the organization to move towards becoming a more closely knit communion of Reformed churches. (20.10.2007)
WARC's response to "A common word between us and you," a letter of peace from the Muslim community (15.10.2007)
Unity of the church against today's slavery is WARC Executive Committee's focus Reformed church leaders from around the world will gather in Trinidad and Tobago, 18 to 28 October to consider several critical issues concerning the unity of the church. (12.10.2007)
Global trading system – a weapon of mass destruction The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has joined activists around the globe in calling for fair, equitable and just trade while urging churches to join the Trade Week of Action 14 to 21 October. (11.10.2007)
calvin09: 500 Years Jean Calvin on the Internet Today, the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches (FSPC) officially launched the Website for the Calvin-Jubilee-Year 2009. The interactive portal features information all around the 500th anniversary of the reformer Jean Calvin – and in four languages. (28.09.2007)
Response to grace should be gratitude, not pride, Nyomi says God's assurances in 1 Peter that believers are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” are dangerous words if they are misconstrued, World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) general secretary Setri Nyomi told a gathering of General Assembly Council members and middle governing body executives in Louisville, Kentucky, on 17 September. (20.09.2007)
The Accra Confession: a call to courage to change the world The World Alliance of Reformed Churches’ (WARC) Accra Confession is “a call to courage” to bring change, a gathering of Presbyterians from the United States was told on 18 September in Louisville, Kentucky. (20.09.2007)
Christian Reformed Church in North America 150th anniversary marked by call for unity Reformed Christians needn't be so much "stuck to tradition" as to each other in their prophetic mission, a leader of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) said in marking the 150th anniversary of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. (17.09.2007)
A faithful prophetic witness: the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea The general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has expressed gratitude to the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea for its efforts around the reunification of North and South Korea. (12.09.2007)
Kirkpatrick lauded for leadership as he decides not to seek another term at Presbyterian Church (USA) Clifton Kirkpatrick was praised as a leader of vision and courage following his announcement that he would not seek a fourth term as stated clerk of the Presbyterian Church (USA). His current term ends in June 2008. (11.09.2007)
When women lead: the Sylvia Michel Prize A prize supporting women as leaders in the worldwide family of Reformed churches has been launched by the Reformed Church of Argovia in Switzerland in partnership with the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (07.09.2007)
Lutheran-Reformed Dialogue Group Agrees to Further Study on Understanding of Church Namibian Lutherans Host Second Meeting of Joint Commission WINDHOEK, Namibia/GENEVA, 29 August 2007 (LWI) - Theologians from the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) participating in the second meeting of the Lutheran-Reformed Joint Commission agreed to the need for further study on the understanding of the Church from the perspectives of the two faith traditions. (04.09.2007)
WARC leader congratulates Rwandan church on 100 years of service Be a “healed and healing church,” the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda was urged at a joyful and colourful service where thousands celebrated its centenary in a Kigali stadium on 19 August. (20.08.2007)
Urgent Prayer Appeal to the Ecumenical Community From the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea, regarding the kidnappings and murders in Afghanistan (31.07.2007)
WARC questions Vatican statement on status of Reformed churches The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) wrote to the Vatican 10 July, questioning Rome’s clarification on the status of non-Catholic churches, saying the statement “takes us back to the kind of thinking and atmosphere that was prevalent prior to the Second Vatican Council.” (10.07.2007)
Seeking new models of leadership for women and men Gender, power and leadership in church and society will be the focus of an international consultation sponsored by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and St. Paul's United Theological College in Limuru, Kenya, 29 June to 4 July. (28.06.2007)
Reformed seminaries worldwide to share their expertise A groundbreaking meeting of the heads of Reformed seminaries around the world will lead to greater cooperation among the schools and enrichment of theological education, says a report issued on 22 June, the final day of the gathering. (22.06.2007)
Women from 10 churches in the South receive WARC scholarships Eleven women from the Pacific, Latin America, Africa and Asia have received scholarship awards worth more than 80,000 Swiss Francs as part of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) support for women in the South studying for the ordained ministry. (20.06.2007)
Princeton to host WARC gathering of Reformed seminary presidents Princeton Theological Seminary will host the World Alliance of Reformed Churches’ (WARC) Conference of Presidents of Theological Institutions Related to Reformed Churches from 18 to 22 June. • Read sermons and presentations from the consultation. • View photos from the consultation. • Read press release about the consultation. • View list of participants. (15.06.2007)
Partnership necessary to reshape mission for the 21st century Churches need to examine their old mission strategies and reshape them for the 21st century, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (11.06.2007)
International Theological Dialogue Between the World Alliance of Reformed Churches and Some Classical Pentecostal Representatives (31.05.2007)
ECUMENICAL WATER NETWORK CALLS FOR HOLISTIC APPROACH TO WATER ISSUES "Our sharing of experiences revealed that water supply, sanitation and protection of the environment should never be separated, but worked on in a holistic approach," says the final statement of the "Churches for Water in Africa" conference, held on 21-25 May in Entebbe, Uganda. (30.05.2007)
First international consultation on the Calvin Jubilee 2009 In 2009 Jean Calvin will be 500. An international conference held from 15-19 April 2007 marks a starting point for the preparations for the Calvin Jubilee that year. Invitations were issued by the John Knox International Reformed Center, the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches, the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Theological Faculty of the University of Geneva. What is the significance of Calvin’s legacy PDF (25.05.2007)
Church leaders call on G8 to keep promises on AIDS Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), joined 570 religious leaders in calling on the G8 countries to take “critical steps” in fulfilling promises made in the global response to HIV/AIDS. (25.05.2007)
Connect with people struggling for justice, churches urged There is no such thing as a comfortable pew for Reformed Christians who want to answer God’s call to bear witness that a world of justice is possible. (10.05.2007)
Speak out on economic and ecological injustice, WARC leader urges Reformed churches around the world should end their silence on economic and ecological injustice, Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), told the Synod of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands on 7 May. (09.05.2007)
Reformed pastors discuss work and witness in the 21st century Thirty senior pastors from Reformed congregations in 16 countries are meeting in Geneva 17 to 20 April to explore together the role of large, influential congregations in the Reformed movement today. (19.04.2007)
Common Easter Prayer of the Churches of South and North Korea Easter 2007 (05.04.2007)
A Call for Prayer to Partner Churches All Over the World On Maundy Thursday From Middle Eastern Christians (28.03.2007)
WARC calls on African Union to intervene in Zimbabwe In a 27 March letter to the chairman of the African Union, John Agyekum Kufuor, the president of Ghana, WARC general secretary Setri Nyomi expressed the Alliance’s “grave concern” over what is happening in Zimbabwe at this time. (27.03.2007)
Never forget the “holocaust of Africa,” churches declare The transatlantic slave trade was an “African holocaust” that should never be forgotten, says a coalition of global ecumenical church bodies working to commemorate the 200th anniversary of its abolition this year. (22.03.2007)
Tackling justice issues means changing lifestyles, Reformed leader says Reformed Christians should expose the “false doctrines” that limit God’s sovereignty to a narrowly defined spiritual realm, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (12.03.2007)
WARC calls for end to impunity for violence against women The escalation of violence against women cannot be separated from the prolific levels of violence unleashed by powerful global forces, says the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) in its annual International Women’s Day message. (07.03.2007)
Milan Opočenský: a friend to the ecumenical movement Milan Opočenský, former general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), was a “gift to the ecumenical community,” his successor Setri Nyomi said in a moving tribute at a memorial service in Prague on 17 February. (19.02.2007)
Reformed family mourns former WARC general secretary Milan Opočenský The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) expressed its “deep sense of sadness” today in announcing the death of one of its long-time and much loved leaders, Milan Opočenský. (01.02.2007)
WARC leaders praise His All Holiness Bartholomew I Leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) praised the Orthodox leader Bartholomew I, the Patriarch of Constantinople, for his significant contribution in fostering Christian unity and environmental justice in meetings in Istanbul, Turkey, ending 15 January. (16.01.2007)
Local churches need global vision, WARC leader says Local churches need to take on a global vision, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), in a series of addresses to pastors of his home church, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, ending on 11 January. (15.01.2007)
WARC Seeks Executive Secretary for Theology The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) is seeking an Executive Secretary for Theology and Ecumenical Engagement to take up duties at its Geneva offices. (08.01.2007)
Pacific churches struggling for justice, WARC leader says Reformed churches in the Pacific are deeply engaged in the struggle to bring fullness of life for all in their various contexts, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (07.12.2006)
WARC workshop helps Pacific churches face today's challenges Leaders from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) in the Pacific said a leadership development training workshop held in Fiji, 21-25 November, will make a difference in helping churches in the area face current challenges. (27.11.2006)
END THE SILENCE CONCERNING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN Rampant violence against women around the world must become a priority concern for churches. (24.11.2006)
Covenanting for Justice Project enters new era The Covenanting for Justice Project of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) entered a new era following a meeting of WARC’s Officers in Geneva 13 to 18 November, engaging two consultants and embarking on an ambitious work plan over the next two years. (22.11.2006)
First Joint Meeting of WARC and LWF Governing Bodies Future of Ecumenical Assemblies Is of Crucial Importance for Conciliar Ecumenism in the 21st century (20.11.2006)
ALLIANCE WANTS THE UN TO PLAY LARGER ROLE FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE The world needs an effective United Nations that will become an even more influential promoter of peace and justice, a leader of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) says in a letter to incoming UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. (18.10.2006)
An Ecumenical Faith Stance Against Global Empire Manila, the Philippines, July 13-15, 2006 (17.08.2006)
RESIST THE GLOBAL EMPIRE, CHURCHES URGED Global empire represents a massive threat to life of all kinds and must be resisted by Christians, a group of 17 Reformed theologians from around the world has declared in a study document released today. (17.08.2006)
Ecumenical Delegation returns from Beirut and Jerusalem and transmits the concerns of the churches "Why such awful destruction?" was the question heard over and over again by members of an ecumenical pastoral delegation in relation to Israel's attacks on Lebanon. (16.08.2006)
A CALL TO END THE VIOLENCE Saying the world cannot wait for signs of a “new Middle East,” leaders of three prominent international groups representing millions of Christians worldwide issued a joint appeal for an end to the violence in the Middle East on 8 August. (08.08.2006)
A STATEMENT BY THE WORLD ALLIANCE OF REFORMED CHURCHES ON THE ESCALATING VIOLENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) continues to be horrified by the hostilities, loss of life, injuries and destruction in the Middle East and today calls for an immediate cessation of violent acts by all parties, particularly those taking place along the southern border of Lebanon. (24.07.2006)
ALLIANCE OFFERS SOLIDARITY TO FILIPINO CHURCH The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) took a message of support and solidarity to the United Church of Christ in the Philippines on 17 July concerning the recent murder of church activists, including four pastors. (20.07.2006)
A LETTER ON THE MIDDLE EAST CRISIS FROM THE PRESIDENT OF WARC Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick (20.07.2006)
LUTHERAN-REFORMED JOINT COMMISSION Utrecht, The Netherlands (19.07.2006)
FOURTEEN WOMEN AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) announced today scholarship awards worth more than 50,000 Swiss Francs for 14 women as part of its ongoing support for women in the South studying for ordination. (07.07.2006)
JOINT WARC/NHKA MEDIA RELEASE A seven member delegation of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) visited the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika (NHKA) from 5 to 8 June 2006 in Pretoria. The visit flowed from the NHKA’s application to have its membership of WARC restored, and was aimed at gathering information and input from various stakeholders. (12.06.2006)
CALL FOR UNITY OF CHURCHES WORLDWIDE AGAINST GLOBALIZATION A major international forum on mission and spirituality has called for a united movement among churches around the world alongside other faiths and civil society to challenge the deadly effects of neoliberal economic globalization. (26.05.2006)
UNION OF FRENCH CHURCHES HELPS OVERCOME FRAGMENTED SOCIETIES, NYOMI SAYS The decision by the two biggest Protestant denominations in France's eastern Alsace-Lorraine region to form a union of churches will strengthen Christian witness, says a World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) top official. (09.05.2006)
ALLIANCE LEADER PRAISES THAI CHURCH FOR ECUMENICAL OUTREACH In his first visit to the Church of Christ in Thailand, Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), praised the church for its mission outreach work to the whole Thai community. (24.04.2006)
TAIWAN CHURCH CONGRATULATED FOR MISSION EFFORTS, CHALLENGED ON GLOBALIZATION A leader of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has congratulated Taiwan Presbyterians for years of courageous local mission efforts and challenged them to tackle the issue of neoliberal economic globalization. (18.04.2006)
WARC CALLS FOR RECOGNITION OF WOMEN IN CHURCH AND SOCIETY The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) is calling on all churches to recognize the significant role of women in church and society to mark International Women’s Day 2006, Wednesday 8 March. (07.03.2006)
WORLD CHRISTIAN LEADERS HAIL PROPOSAL FOR JOINT GLOBAL ASSEMBLY Leaders of two world Christian groupings have reacted positively to a proposal by World Council of Churches general secretary Samuel Kobia that the three worldwide bodies jointly hold the next meetings of their highest governing bodies. (16.02.2006)
A “MAJOR STEP FORWARD IN UNITY” IN REFORMED FAMILY OF CHURCHES Calling it a “major step forward in unity,” leaders of two worldwide Reformed church groups representing more than 80 million Protestants are calling for a new global body named the World Reformed Communion. (01.02.2006)
HELP BUILD MULTIRACIAL COMMUNITIES, WARC LEADER URGES CHURCHES Churches need a new vision, a new sense of daring as they engage with the communities around them, says the general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), Setri Nyomi. (30.01.2006)
WALDENSIAN CHURCH OFFERS MODEL AS REFORMED CHURCHES URGED TO BE COUNTERCULTURE Reformed Christians are called to be counterculture in order to speak out for life in the midst of the prevailing forces of secularism and fundamentalist religion, the president of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) said in an address to the Waldensian Evangelical Church in Rome, Italy. (09.01.2006)
WARC LEADERS CALL FOR NEW ERA OF PARTNERSHIP WITH VATICAN Leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) have called for a new era of partnership on justice issues in their first meeting with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on 7 January. (09.01.2006)
THE LOMBARD PRIZE: ONE THOUSAND U.S. DOLLARS FOR BEST THEOLOGICAL ESSAY The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) is offering 1,000 U.S. dollars for its prestigious Lombard Prize awarded for the best essay by a theological student or young pastor. (19.12.2005)
ECUMENICAL WOMEN’S FORUM SAYS WTO IS WIDENING SOCIAL DISPARITY The World Trade Organization (WTO) has come under fire from an international gathering of 70 women church leaders for policies they say lead to trade inequality and a wider gap between the rich and the poor. (16.12.2005)
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOMEN IN THE SOUTH AWARDED TO 11 AFRICAN WOMEN IN 2005 Eleven women from Africa have been awarded scholarships this year worth CHF71,708 by the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) in its ongoing effort to make theological education more accessible to women in the South. (06.12.2005)
WARC SEEKS NEW WAYS OF BRINGING CHURCHES TOGETHER The worldwide family of Reformed churches needs to come together in new ways while remaining open to the higher goal of full Christian unity, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (09.11.2005)
International Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches The ninth session of the International Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches was held in Dhour Choueir Evangelical Conference Center of the Presbyterian Synod of Syria and Lebanon, in the Metn district of Lebanon, from October 13-19, 2005. (21.10.2005)
ALLIANCE WELCOMES CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH REC The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) took a “momentous” step on Friday agreeing to begin a new process that could deepen the relationship with the Reformed Ecumenical Council (REC). (14.10.2005)
ALLIANCE LAYS OUT NEW AGENDA Reformed church leaders from around the world began to lay out an ambitious agenda for justice and youth work for the next two years on Thursday, utilizing a new structure and set of priorities adopted earlier in the week. (13.10.2005)
NEW PRIORITIES BRING WARC CLOSER TO MEMBER CHURCHES The executive committee of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) Tuesday agreed to a new vision, callings, a set of priorities and structure which leaders stressed will bring it closer to the member churches while remaining financially responsible. (11.10.2005)
“WATER – GOD’S GIFT FOR LIFE” IS THEME FOR WORLD ALLIANCE MEETING Every drop counts. (09.10.2005)
REFORMED CHURCH LEADERS CHALLENGED TO BE VANGUARDS FOR JUSTICE Leaders of the 75 million member-strong World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) meeting in Evian, France, Friday were challenged to take on the major concerns of a world crying out for justice. (07.10.2005)
REFORMED CHURCHES AROUND THE WORLD TACKLE ECONOMIC JUSTICE ISSUES Neoliberal economic globalization is taking its toll on Reformed church members from around the world, members of the executive committee of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) heard Friday in their meeting being held at Evian, France. (07.10.2005)
ALLIANCE EXECUTIVE MEETS IN EVIAN UNDER THEME: "WATER - GOD'S GIFT FOR LIFE" (03.10.2005)
WARC LEADER CHALLENGES SOUTH AFRICAN CHURCH TO BATTLE ECONOMIC INJUSTICE A leader of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has challenged a member church that stood up to the evil of apartheid to tackle the issue of neoliberal economic globalization. (03.10.2005)
ALLIANCE JOINS CALL TO END GLOBAL POVERTY Leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) have called for an end to global poverty in statements this week. (13.09.2005)
WARC women’s gathering links economic justice and gender equality An international gathering of Reformed church women has stated that there is an “inseparable link between ecology, economic justice and gender equality” and participants committed themselves to developing a feminist critique of neoliberal economics. (31.08.2005)
Lombard Prize presented to Ghana pastor The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has presented the 2003-2004 Lombard Prize to Confidance Worlanyo Kwasi Bansah, a young pastor of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, at the church’s 64th Synod. (30.08.2005)
WARC Statement following the death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, Sudan’s first Vice President It is with a sense of shock that the World Alliance of Reformed Churches family learned of the tragic death of Vice President Dr. John Garang. (02.08.2005)
Alliance welcomes the opportunity to deepen relationship with Reformed Ecumenical Council The growing closeness between two worldwide Reformed church communions is a witness to the world in a time when religious differences can result in violence, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (22.07.2005)
The World Alliance of Reformed Churches on the London Bombings A letter from General Secretary Setri Nyomi to the United Reformed Church of Great Britain (07.07.2005)
Continue to stand with victims of injustice after the G8 and Live8 events Churches must keep the attention of the world on the victims of poverty once the meetings of the G8 leaders and the Live8 concerts have concluded, says Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches. (04.07.2005)
Reformed Churches’ Leader Calls for Collaboration with other Faiths in Justice Efforts Christians should collaborate with members of other faiths on social justice issues, says the winner of the 2005 E. H. Johnson Memorial Award for service on the cutting edge of mission, Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (07.06.2005)
Joint Communiqué -International Theological Dialogue between some Classical Pentecostal Representatives and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches Detmold, Germany, June 01, 2005 - Representatives of some classical Pentecostal churches and delegates of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) met in Detmold, Germany, May 25 to 31, 2005. (01.06.2005)
World Alliance leaders moved by resilience of Reformed churches in Hungary, Transylvania Leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) expressed support and encouragement for the suffering experienced by Reformed churches in Hungary and Transylvania during a pastoral visit May 11-16. (18.05.2005)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches Leader Visits China, Promotes Ecumenism A five-day trip to meet church leaders in China, April 22-27, left World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) general secretary Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi deeply moved by the spirit of the Chinese Protestant church. (29.04.2005)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches Congratulates New Pope, Calls For Increased Ecumenism The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has offered its congratulations to the newly elected head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI, and called for increased ecumenical engagement. (19.04.2005)
Message from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches on the election of Pope Benedict XVI Dear Pope Benedict XVI, (19.04.2005)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches mourns loss of Pope John Paul II. Reformed Christians around the world stand with their sisters and brothers in mourning the death of Pope John Paul II, say leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC). (03.04.2005)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches’ Easter Message The power of the suffering love of Jesus Christ continues to transform the world, leaders of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) said in their annual Easter message to member churches. (24.03.2005)
Reading the Bible while insensitive to one’s context can be dangerous, Alliance leader warns Don’t read and interpret the Bible while oblivious to suffering and need, a leader of the 75 million member strong World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) has urged Christians in an address at Princeton Theological Seminary. (11.03.2005)
Stand firm on women’s rights, churches urged Patricia Sherattan-Bisnauth of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) joined the World Council of Churches (WCC) delegation at the United Nations in New York this week in calling on churches worldwide to stand firm on women’s rights. (04.03.2005)
World Alliance of Reformed Churches’ Officers begin priority setting The Officers of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) have just ended a four day meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, February 23 - 26. (01.03.2005)
Never Again, says the World Alliance of Reformed Churches on Auschwitz Liberation Day The world cannot let another Auschwitz take place, says the leader of the worldwide Reformed Christian churches on the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi camp in Poland. (27.01.2005)
Church-related organizatins support Code of Good Practice for HIV/AIDS. At least 19 faith-based organizations are among the 160 initial signers of a new Code of Good Practice for NGOs Responding to HIV/AIDS. (30.11.2004)
Rediscovering Calvin – father of economic justice Reformed Christians looking for inspiration to tackle the statements of the 24th General Council of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) in Ghana last summer should look to the great reformer John Calvin. (30.11.2004)
Challenge the forces that glorify division, churches urged by Reformed leader Lack of unity among churches is a scandal but when they work together they are a major source of healing for a world that badly needs it, says a leading figure in the ecumenical movement, the general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi. (15.11.2004)
Churches giving mixed messages, Reformed leader says Divisions within the Christian church are distracting it from its mission, says a leader in the world ecumenical movement. (05.11.2004)
Alliance congratulates PROK leaders Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), has offered the Alliance’s congratulations to the new general secretary, moderator and vice-moderators of the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK). (26.10.2004)
Joint Communiqué Roman Catholic-Reformed International Dialogue (19.10.2004)
Tribute to the late Dr. Beyers Naude From the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (26.08.2004)
Jan Milic Lochman, 1922-2004 Jan Milic Lochman, who has died aged 81, chaired the theology department of the Alliance from 1970 to 1982. (29.01.2004)