Rev. Kim Dong Wan, a devout Christian and committed ecumenist, was associated with the WCC in various ways especially when he served as the general secretary of the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) from 1994 to 2002. He is also remembered for his deep involvement in the Korean civil society movement. Kim died on 12 September 2007 at the age of 65.

Full text of WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia’s condolence letter to the NCCK

Claire Randall, a lay Presbyterian leader, became a role model for many after being elected the first female general secretary of the National Council of Churches USA (NCCCUSA) in 1974. She was a determined advocate for both the WCC and the NCCCUSA when these councils were harshly criticized for their commitment in southern Africa and Latin America. Claire Randall died on 9 September 2007 aged 91.

Full text of WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia’s condolence letter to the NCCCUSA