In a message to the 27th Pentecostal World Conference, being held in Helsinki 4-7 June, World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay reflected on the theme of the conference, "Go &Make," describing it as both timely and deeply challenging.
"It means walking into the darkness with the light of Christ, confronting systems of power with truth, and listening intently to the cries of the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the voiceless," he said. "Discipleship today must resist the narratives of destruction, division, war, and conflict."
Pillay also emphasized that the call to transformation begins with recognizing the depth and breadth of our shared mission. "We need one another to better discern the voice of Christ amidst a multitude of misleading voices," he said. "We must listen deeply to what the Holy Spirit is saying through our diverse communities of faith, so that together we may find a common voice—a prophetic voice for our time."
Our world longs for spiritual and moral renewal, he continued. "Your gatherings here in Helsinki – focusing on theological education, missions, and unity – testify to the Pentecostal movement's global vitality and commitment," he said. "In particular, I celebrate the contributions of the Christian Unity Commission, through which Pentecostal churches are working collaboratively with other Christian traditions."
Pillay also mentioned the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea this year. "This historic milestone offers a moment for all Christians to reflect on the foundational confessions of our faith and to renew our commitment to visible unity," he said. "As you reflect, pray, and share during these days, may you feel the embrace of the global Christian community walking alongside you."
He highlighted the ongoing work of the Joint Consultative Group between the WCC and the Pentecostal World Fellowship, which is convening alongside the conference, as well as attending parts of the conference itself. "Let us go forward together—called, empowered, and united in Christ," Pillay concluded.
Originally from Webpage "The WCC"
CCD reprinted with permission
