WCC general secretary attends planning meeting for 2000th anniversary of Christ’s resurrection

Empowered21 is a global movement and network of Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians focused on helping new generations experience the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. It was launched in 2009 with the aim of uniting believers and organizations across denominations to facilitate the spread of Spirit-empowered Christianity worldwide.

The year 2033 will mark the 2000th anniversary of Christ’s crucifixion, resurrection, and the birth of the church. The group meeting in New York City, includes denominational and ministry network leaders, aims to provide a unique space for significant ministry and network leaders to strategize and collaborate. 

Late in 2022, denominational and ministry network leaders met and developed a commitment

document agreeing to significant Great Commission focus over the next decade, including collaborating with one another.

Regular global and regional gatherings, such as the Empowered21 Global Congress, bring together thousands of believers, leaders, and worshippers to celebrate and strategize Spirit-empowered ministry.

The general secretary shared about the WCC vision and mission as it seeks to proclaim Jesus Christ to the world by working for Christian unity, justice and peace to make the world a better place for all people and creation. He spoke about Nicaea2025 stressing that the common date in which all Christians will celebrate Easter in 2025 presents a great opportunity to display visible Christian unity. This could be used as a platform for the 2033 celebrations. 

Pillay said, “This roundtable is a historic moment since it is the first time that the WCC has been invited to participate in a space where mainly Pentecostals and charismatic churches connect and work together. It is a clear sign that the ecumenical circle is widening and that is precisely what it should be as we seek to fulfil God`s mission in the world.” Pillay added that he was deeply moved by the vision and passion of the leaders to witness to Jesus Christ in the world and their sincere zeal to fulfil the Great Commission.