In a compelling address to the officers of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) gathered in the Cayman Islands, President Najla Kassab emphasized the critical need for a renewed dedication to global peace, justice, and unity. This gathering marks the celebration of two significant milestones: the 20th anniversary of the Accra Confession and the 150th anniversary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC)—milestones that Kassab urged the communion to honor with renewed action and imagination.

“We seek a renewed imagination of what it means to be a church in communion—a call to embrace our unity, envision a world of justice, peace, and reconciliation, and practice spiritualities rooted in the mission of God,” said Kassab.

The meeting, held within the Caribbean and North American (CANAAC) region, showcased the diversity of the 22 member churches that form this regional expression of the WCRC. These include the Presbyterian Church (USA), United Church of Canada, United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, Christian Reformed Church in North America, and other member congregations across North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Together, these churches strengthen the Communion’s shared mission to foster unity and service across diverse communities.

Kassab’s address spoke directly to recent conflicts, including the violence in Lebanon. Drawing from her own experiences witnessing the humanitarian toll on civilians, she called on the global church to lead a campaign advocating “no war” and “pro-life” solutions. She emphasized that true strength is found in promoting diplomacy and dialogue, especially in regions such as Gaza, Lebanon, and Ukraine.

“We cannot accept war as a path forward,” Kassab declared. “Our role as a communion is to raise a voice for peace and justice, to ensure the dignity of every human life. This message must echo across our global communion,” she said.

Kassab highlighted recent strides in strengthening WCRC’s communication and operational frameworks under General Secretary Setri Nyomi. These efforts are designed to enhance member engagement and transparency, especially as WCRC prepares for its 2025 General Council. Kassab called for renewed accountability and collaboration to further unify and empower the Communion.

In closing, she drew on the words of theologian Gustavo Gutiérrez, reaffirming the WCRC’s commitment to being a church that serves humanity with compassion, rooted in justice and inclusion. “Living in Lebanon today teaches us the fragility of life and the urgency of our mission. We must lead a ‘no war, pro-life’ campaign, promoting dialogue and understanding, and advocating for the dignity and well-being of all people, particularly the marginalized and oppressed,” she stated. This call to action, she concluded, is essential for the church’s relevance and impact in today’s world.

Full address can be found here.