In Hungary, WCC general secretary reflects on church in changing landscapes

In Hungary, WCC general secretary reflects on church in changing landscapes

iku

Thu, 09/24/2026 - 11:20

World Council of Churches general secretary began a visit to Hungary by offering a lecture in Debrechen on 24 September. Exploring “ Church in Changing landscapes: God ’ s Mission and Our Own,” Pillay reflected on how the current context should influence the mission of the churches.

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Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, World Council of Churches general secretary.

Photo: Valter Muniz/WCC

“ I want to argue that Christian mission can be crucial—one might almost say redemptive—in addressing the problems of our world at their deepest root,” he said. “ Attempts to define Christian mission have resulted in prolonged and relentless debates.”

Even more difficult is the task of determining the aims of the mission, Pillay noted. “ We must embrace the holistic view of mission.”

He named dynamism, justice, diversity, and transformation as key concepts of mission today.

“ The cry for freedom and justice is loud for many in the world today,” he said. “ The church needs to stand where God stands and not get mixed up with the…