“As Reformed Christians, we acknowledge that we have largely suppressed the memory of the persecution of the Anabaptists. We confess that this persecution was, according to our present conviction, a betrayal of the Gospel,” said the Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC).

In a historic act of confession, gratitude and renewed relationship, the WCRC and the Mennonite World Conference (MWC) are marking 500 years since the beginning of the Anabaptist movement with a shared commitment to healing. As 2025 commemorates the birth of Anabaptism in Zurich in 1525, the two global communions will jointly launch an ecumenical resource titled Restoring Our Family to Wholeness: Seeking a Common Witness—a testament to repentance, grace and a new beginning.

This collaborative document, shaped by theologians from both traditions, was formally presented in Zurich on May 29, 2025—a city that bears deep significance as both the cradle of the Reformation and a place of past persecution. For the WCRC, participation in this event begins with a solemn confession of guilt for the suffering inflicted upon Anabaptists by Reformed authorities.

A Sacred Confession and Expression of Gratitude

The common statement opens with an unambiguous recognition of past wrongs. It laments the history of theological conflict and persecution—acknowledging that Anabaptists endured violence, exclusion and condemnation from those within the Reformed tradition. In Zurich, the WCRC will voice its deep sorrow for this history, confessing the guilt that still burdens the shared memory of the church.

Following this act of confession, the WCRC expresses heartfelt gratitude to the Mennonites for extending an invitation to enter into a process of reconciliation. This gracious opening has made possible a journey of healing—one grounded not in denial or avoidance, but in truth, humility and the renewing power of Christ.

From Brokenness Toward Wholeness

Only after these foundational steps of confession and gratitude does the statement move to celebrate a shared calling. Anchored in the common confession of Jesus Christ as Lord, the churches now commit to walk together in mutual respect, trust and active discipleship. The initiative is not simply about historical reckoning—it is a living commitment to be the church together in a fractured world.

Restoring Our Family to Wholeness includes prayers, testimonies and worship resources for local congregations to use in ecumenical settings. From community gatherings in Kenya to shared services in Canada, churches are already embodying this renewed relationship in tangible ways.

Healing Memory, Cultivating Hope

The resource also offers historical clarity and theological insight into five centuries of division—particularly around baptism, peace and ecclesiology. Yet it does not remain in the past. It looks ahead, inspiring churches to take up the hard but hopeful work of reconciliation through shared witness and mission.

Endorsed by the executive committees of both communions in 2024, this initiative is not a conclusion but a beginning. As the statement affirms, reconciliation is not a moment—it is a way of life. It must be lived out in acts of solidarity, service and a deepened unity shaped by grace.

“The WCRC is deeply grateful for the invitation of the Mennonite World Conference to the celebration in Zurich,” said Rev. Dr. Hanns Lessing, executive secretary for communion and theology at the WCRC. “Mennonites and Reformed Christians share a common beginning and the commitment for justice and peace. We look forward for the next steps to develop our relationship.”

A Call to the Whole Church

Available in multiple languages—including English, Spanish, French and German—Restoring Our Family to Wholeness is a gift offered to the global church. It invites all Christians to participate in the work of healing by engaging the resource in worship, education and community outreach.

In a world often torn by division and hardened by indifference, this act of confession and reconciliation is a powerful sign of what is possible when truth meets grace. By walking together—honestly, humbly and hopefully—the Mennonite and Reformed communions proclaim that even long-standing wounds can become paths toward wholeness.

Photo: Lutherischer Weltbund – Deutsches Nationalkomitee

(v.l.) Pastor Rainer Burkhard (MWC), Samuel P. van der Maas (WEA), Rev. Nicta Lubaale (OAIC), Rev. Dr. Hanns Lessing (WCRC), Pastor Anne-Cathy Graber (MWC), General Secretary Tim Gee (FWCC), Rev Prov. John Roth (MWC), Prof. Dr. Otniel Bunaciu (BWA), General Secretary César García (MWC), Rev. Dr. Neil Vigers (AWC), Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah (WCC), Seung Un Paul Tché (DoC), Rev. Dr. Andreas Ohlemacher (LWF).