World Council of Churches hold its Executive Committee Meeting in East China's Hangzhou – ecns.cn

The World Council of Churches (WCC), at the invitation of the China Christian Council (CCC), convened its Executive Committee Meeting in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, from November 20 to 25, 2025.
Heinrich Bedford-Strohm, Moderator of the WCC Central Committee, Merlyn Hyde Rirely, Vice Moderator, Jerry Pillay, General Secretary, and over 30 Executive Committee members, as well as staff members of the WCC attended the six-day meeting. Bedford-Strohm and Pillay delivered opening addresses and work reports respectively, followed by discussions and consultations on program, finance, nominations and public issues. The agenda also included thematic lectures on topics such as “Post-Denominational Theology & Practice” and “Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development”, morning prayers, and exchange activities showcasing church ministries with Chinese characteristics. Focus areas of the meeting encompassed the women ministry, further contextualization of Christianity in China, inter-faith dialogue, Pastoral ministry, and theological education.
The WCC expressed deep gratitude for the invitation and hospitality, valuing the opportunity to reconnect with Chinese churches and Christians with the commitment to promoting Justice, Reconciliation and Unity, allowing a new generation of WCC leaders to build on longstanding ties with China’s Protestant church.
The delegates were profoundly impressed by the vibrant church life, diverse ministries of the CCC&TSPM, and the Amity Foundation’s diaconal work, cherishing moments of prayer, worship, and fellowship in local congregations, as well as interactions with interfaith partners that deepened understanding of China’s religious landscape. They noted that China’s religious reality is broader and more diverse than external perceptions.
Highlighting the CCC&TSPM’s post-denominational nature as a profound expression of ecumenical unity amid diversity, the WCC praised further contextualization of Christianity in China.
Amid global challenges (conflict, geopolitical tensions, climate crisis), the WCC acknowledged China’s growing international leadership and responsibilities, commending its commitment to multilateralism and UN peacekeeping. Notably, China’s renewable energy achievements stood out.
As all continued the journey of justice, reconciliation, and unity, the WCC prayed for China’s churches and the world, asking for strengthened hope, faithfulness, and the virtues of ren(仁), yi(义), li(礼), zhi(智), and he(和).

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