Amid the rhythmic beating of drums and the ceremonial ringing of a gong, the 27th General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) opened in Chiang Mai, Thailand, gathering more than 400 participants from around the world to celebrate faith, unity, and witness.

The event, hosted by the Church of Christ in Thailand (CCT), marks the first time Thailand has served as host for the global gathering, drawing delegates from WCRC’s 230 member churches, ecumenical partners, and local and government leaders. The council will run from 14–23 October under the theme “Persevere in Your Witness.”

“We work with a cloud of witnesses,” declared Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, WCRC General Secretary, as he invited delegates from each region to stand, symbolizing the breadth and diversity of the global Reformed family. Once a quorum was confirmed, Rev. Najla Kassab, WCRC President, officially opened the council by striking a ceremonial gong three times — a gesture echoing both solemnity and celebration.

In her welcoming remarks, Kassab spoke of the unity that transcends borders and traditions. “We are one body,” she said, “called to witness together with courage and compassion.”

A Warm Thai Welcome

Representing the host city, Weerapong Ridrod, Vice Governor of Chiang Mai Province, extended a heartfelt welcome to delegates and visitors. “Chiang Mai, once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, is a city with a long and rich history, with a remarkable artistic, cultural, and spiritual heritage spanning over seven centuries,” he said. “Here, Buddhists, Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs coexist in harmony, reflecting mutual respect and unity in diversity.”

Echoing this sentiment, Sakpet Yanakaew, Director-General of the Religious Affairs Department, Chiang Mai Ministry of Culture, spoke of religion’s vital role in social healing and transformation. “Society needs religion, and religion in turn needs strength, creativity, and courage,” he said. “Together, we must heal divisions, build peace, care for those who suffer, and advance justice and equality—leaving no one behind.”

Rev. Dr. Boonratana Buayen, Moderator of the Church of Christ in Thailand, encouraged Reformed churches to remain steadfast in their witness. “We are called to live with transparency and integrity,” he said. “To show care for the vulnerable, promote peace amid conflict, and proclaim the good news of Christ in every aspect of life.”

A message from Assanee Buranupakorn, Mayor of Chiang Mai, emphasized the city’s legacy of hospitality. “Chiang Mai is a world-renowned center of tourism, rich in culture, diverse arts, and stunning natural scenery,” his statement read. “It is also a city warm with love and unity, where people of many faiths live together harmoniously.”

Faith in Harmony

The opening ceremony featured a vibrant cultural performance, “Our Thailand,” presented by the Institute of Christian Communication of the Church of Christ in Thailand, blending traditional Thai music and dance with a message of shared faith and national pride.

Ecumenical partners from around the world brought greetings and messages of solidarity. Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), praised the enduring collaboration between the two communions. “In the WCRC and the WCC, our priorities are nearly aligned,” he said. “Our programmes are intertwined, and our commitment to justice, peace, and theological engagement unites us as we witness together on issues from climate to gender equality.”

Rev. Dr. Jooseop Keum, General Secretary of the Council for World Mission (CWM), reflected on the shared theological roots of the Reformed family. “We are two communions flowing from the same wellspring,” he said. “The Reformed tradition reminds us that faith is inseparable from justice.”

Representing the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA), Rev. Dr. Pradit Takerngrangsarit delivered a message on behalf of General Secretary Dr. Mathews George Chunakara, affirming the timeliness of the council’s theme. “The call to ‘Persevere in Your Witness’ is most pertinent in today’s world,” he said. “It challenges us to continue being faithful witnesses of Christ amid global uncertainty.”

A Gathering of Grace

As the first session came to a close, WCRC President Kassab offered words of gratitude and prayer. “We thank God for all the people sharing their gifts and talents,” she said. “We pray for our churches around the world — for their leadership, their courage, and their steadfast witness.”

The opening day of the 27th General Council set the tone for ten days of reflection, worship, and discernment — a testament to the enduring faith of a global community united in its call to persevere among a “cloud of witnesses.”