Inaugural pre-meeting of WCC Jerusalem Liaison Advisory Committee convenes, maps future

The Jerusalem Liaison Office Advisory Committee will work under the framework of the WCC’s policy on Palestine and Israel. The committee is responsible for providing guidance, advice, and support to the WCC programmes and staff based in Jerusalem and operating under the Jerusalem Liaison Office. Its specific tasks will be to advise the WCC general secretary on how best to respond to relevant developments through its programmes and activities in order to promote a just peace in Palestine and Israel and help sustain the Christian presence in the Holy Land, and receive information about the work of the different programmes and activities of the Jerusalem Liaison Office.  

The committee will also analyze the political, social, and economic context of the region, in particular from the perspective of the churches and church-related organizations. 

The membership of the group includes representatives of local churches, local partner organisations, and members of WCC Jerusalem-based programme reference groups. 

Sauca expressed how grateful for is for the newly convened group. “I see a sense of both determination and hope among the church families, local representatives, non-governmental organizations, and compassionate experts that comprise this new group,” he said. “They have great potential for building the kinds of bridges that repair relationships, spark hope, and brighten the future.” 

The committee will meet a second time in mid-December to nominate a moderator and co-moderator for the group to be presented to the next meeting of the executive committee.  

A World Council of Churches delegation led by WCC acting general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca visit Jerusalem and the West Bank from 21-25 November, meeting with patriarchs and heads of Christian communities as well as local clergy and laity.

"Seeking Justice and Peace for All in the Middle East", statement of the WCC 11th Assembl

WCC acting general secretary visits the Holy Land (WCC press release 20 July 2022)