The Executive Committee of the Alianza de Iglesias Presbiterianas y Reformadas de América Latina, or the Alliance of Presbyterian and Reformed Churches of Latin America (AIPRAL), convened in El Salvador ahead of the ACCRA +20 Regional Meeting, reaffirming its commitment to justice, solidarity, and collaborative action. The gathering featured in-depth discussions on the mission of churches and their communities, a comprehensive review of AIPRAL’s operational plan, and an analysis of the pressing challenges facing the region.

Adding to the significance of the event, the Executive Committee met with the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) executive team, including Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, general secretary; Muna Nassar, executive secretary for mission and advocacy and liaison for Latin America and the Caribbean; and Rev. Philip Vinod Peacock, executive secretary for justice and witness programs. This meeting fostered dialogue on shared concerns, formalized new collaborations, and strengthened the ties between AIPRAL and the broader global Reformed community.

“The spirit of unity and mutual support we have witnessed here is a testament to our shared commitment to justice and reconciliation,” said Nyomi. “As we commemorate 20 years since the Accra Confession, it is essential that we reaffirm our dedication to standing with those in vulnerable situations, particularly in the face of growing global inequalities.”

The first day of the ACCRA +20 Meeting commenced in San Salvador, guided by the biblical call to hospitality and solidarity. Discussions centered on migration and the urgent responsibility of churches to safeguard human life. In response to the humanitarian realities of Mesoamerica as a migration corridor, participants emphasized the need for coordinated action between churches, civil society organizations, government institutions, and global partners to provide effective support to those seeking dignity and security in their journeys.

A key highlight of the gathering was an exchange with representatives of the Mission and Migration Network in Mesoamerica, which collaborates across denominations and organizations—including the Presbyterian Church (USA) (PCUSA)—to uphold human rights, advocate for regular migration pathways, and contribute to peacebuilding and socioeconomic development.

The day’s events also included an ecumenical lunch, bringing together the AIPRAL Executive Committee, WCRC leaders, and representatives from various Salvadoran churches. Later in the afternoon, participants visited San Salvador’s historic center, culminating in a deeply moving visit to the church where Monsignor Óscar Romero—a revered champion of justice and defender of the poor—is laid to rest. Under the sanctuary’s sacred atmosphere, participants united in song, lifting the theme hymn of the upcoming WCRC General Council in Thailand as a testament to their shared mission.

The significance of this gathering was further underscored by the words of AIPRAL’s Executive Secretary, Dora Arce-Valentín, reflected on the event’s impact: “From February 18 to 21, the Presbyterian family of Latin America gathered under the care of the Calvinist Reformed Church of El Salvador to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Accra Confession as part of the regional meetings organized by the WCRC. We heard about the work of each member church of AIPRAL, shared our challenges as communities of faith, and learned firsthand about the mission of our churches in bringing the liberating message of the Gospel to our countries. In a context marked by migration, the struggle to preserve our natural resources, and the commitment to walking alongside the most vulnerable, these realities continue to inspire the prophetic vocation of our diverse ministries. We hope that this time of fellowship will strengthen our bonds as a Reformed family and prepare us for the upcoming General Council in Thailand this October.”

The gathering concluded with a worship service at the Calvinist Reformed Church, where the Rev. Wertson Brasil, AIPRAL president, delivered a powerful message of faith and action. The day’s journey of discussion, reflection, and solidarity closed with a shared meal, embodying the spirit of brotherhood that continues to define the global Reformed community.

As the ACCRA +20 Regional Meeting concludes, WCRC remains committed to strengthening its partnerships in Latin America and beyond, ensuring that the voices of Reformed churches continue to inform and inspire global efforts toward justice, peace, and reconciliation.