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Hope over tears: WCRC Council brings cultural unity to Chiang Mai
WCRC press briefing in Chiang Mai on October 27, 2025: Insights into the General Council and the cultural diversity of the church.
Hope over tears: WCRC Council brings cultural unity to Chiang Mai
The 27th General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), which met from October 14 to 23, 2025, took place last week in the picturesque city of Chiang Mai. The key findings from this global meeting were presented at a press briefing on October 27th. WCRC leaders were pleased with the respectful and prayerful dialogue demonstrated during the deliberations. The focus was on the message “Hope over tears,” which represents the challenges and hopes of the global community of Reformed churches. Reports the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, the outgoing Secretary General of the WCRC, acknowledged the unity and sense of togetherness that was evident during the Council. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality of the hosts, the Church of Christ in Thailand, and highlighted the cultural diversity and social influence of the church in Chiang Mai. New to the post is Rev. Philip Vinod Peacock, who highlighted the delegates' positive experience in Thailand, noting that 83% of churches ordain women, while only 23% of leadership positions are held by women.
A special anniversary
Another highlight of the meeting was the celebration of the WCRC's 150th anniversary. Nyomi emphasized the significance of this anniversary and the remarkable participation of a 150-member choir, more than half of which came from Buddhist communities. This is evidence of successful interreligious relationships and the common pursuit of peace and harmony.
Leaders were also faced with questions about the role of women in leadership positions within the WCRC and its 230 member churches in 109 countries. The outgoing President, Rev. Najla Kassab, who was the first woman to be elected to this position, handed over her office to Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson. Both women have dealt intensively with the issue of equality and emphasize the need for inclusive leadership.
Diversity of languages and reports
For broader understanding of the results, the WCRC announcement, financial reports and other documents have been made available in several languages: English, German, French, Spanish, Korean and Indonesian. This shows the WCRC's willingness to include all language groups in the dialogue and to promote genuine intercultural exchange on the WCRC website is documented.
The WCRC has also strengthened commitment to interreligious dialogue and peace. Programs to promote female religious authorities are becoming increasingly important. The foundation, which is active in Kenya, is committed to this and offers special training to support women in leadership positions. As explained in the Civil Peace Service report, emphasis is placed on community initiatives and collaboration between generations.
WCRC leaders encourage all members to share the Council's inspiring message and work together for a better future. In a world often characterized by conflict, interfaith dialogue and the pursuit of peace are essential.