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“Inspired by the vision of the Freedom Charter, prophetic voices such as Beyers Naudé and Desmond Tutu, and the unwavering faith of countless communities, the churches played a critical role in resisting oppression and forging hope,” notes the statement. “We also celebrate South African children and youth, and the sacrifices of young people in the struggle, commemorated each year on 16 June.”
The statement also notes that the South African Council of Churches has stood as a faithful and prophetic voice for justice, dignity, and peace. “At a time when the quest for democracy, unity, reconciliation, and justice faces new challenges, our meeting is a sign of solidarity and hope,” reads the text. “We reaffirm the vision of the WCC: that the unity of the church and the unity of humanity belong together, and that our pilgrimage must be shaped by the imperatives of love, justice, and peace.”
The statement also recognizes the complex and urgent challenges that persist in South Africa.
“Economic growth has stagnated, and millions remain excluded from meaningful participation in the economy,” reads the text. “Deep economic disparities, rooted in history and perpetuated by structural barriers, remain a central obstacle to justice and flourishing.”
The WCC governing body also noted that poverty rates have increased, reversing some earlier gains, and wealth remains concentrated among a minority.
“The struggle against corruption - both past and present - has undermined public trust and hampered effective governance at all levels,” reads the text. “While important progress has been made in exposing wrongdoing and initiating reforms, much remains to be done to build a capable, ethical, and responsive state.”
The WCC central committee is convening 18-24 June in Johannesburg, South Africa.
WCC Central Committee, June 2025
WCC general secretary reflects on daring to hope amid struggle (WCC news release, 18 June 2025)
Welcomed by African churches, WCC central committee opens (WCC news release, 19 June 2025)
