Document
Geneva, August 24, 2016
Dear brothers and sisters of the Evangelical Church of the River Plate,
I am writing on behalf of the World Council of Churches to express our heartfelt sorrow at the death of our brother Rev. Juan Abelardo Schvindt.
Juan Abelardo was a committed ecumenist who served the ecumenical movement faithfully, both in his context and in the global ecumenical movement. Having served in all three countries where the membership of the Evangelical Church of the River Plate lives, Juan Abelardo made great efforts to bear witness to unity in diversity in his congregations.
As a member of the WCC’s Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, he worked tirelessly in the defense and promotion of Human Rights. Later, as an active member of our Ecumenical Officers Network, he helped us welcoming and encouraging new church leaders who are currently taking the lead of the ecumenical movement in different parts of the world.
I extend my sympathy most especially to Adela, Tuny, Tania and the entire family who mourn, and pray for peace and comfort at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all members of the church; and, we take comfort in knowing that Juan Abelardo is now resting in the arms of our Lord.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit
