Geneva, 6 July 2023
Dear sisters and brothers from Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church,
Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
Thessalonians 4:13-14
On behalf of the World Council of Churches (WCC), I write to express our deepest condolences on the sudden passing of Rev. Edgar Avitia Legarda. We mourn with you at this loss for the ecumenical movement, and in particular for the Latin American continent.
A key staff member of the Global Mission Relationships, Edgar was also instrumental in building bridges between churches during challenging times. His commitment and action towards Christian unity left a great impact in Latin America, also beyond the Methodist family.
At the WCC, we are extremely grateful for Edgar’s wisdom and close contact with our staff over the years. His expertise and deep knowledge of the ecclesiological landscape of the region were outstanding. Thanks to him, the WCC was able to resume contact with some churches and church leaders in the region that were apart from the life and work of the WCC for many years.
We especially appreciate all the time and energy that Edgar dedicated to reestablishing the channels of dialogue between the leadership of the Methodist Church of Mexico and the WCC.
We join with you in grieving his sudden passing and join you in prayer at this sad time. The thoughts and prayers of the ecumenical community are with Edgar’s family, particularly his wife Giuseppina, their two children, and three grandchildren.
We are grateful for his service and contribution to the ecumenical movement. His memory will be alive in our midst.
Yours in the Risen Lord,
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General Secretary
World Council of Churches