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A courtesy call with Baron Divavesi Waqa, secretary general of the Pacific Islands Forum, at its headquarters, highlighted a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration between churches and regional institutions. Pillay emphasized the WCC’s desire to “learn from Pacific churches and deepen cooperation on common priorities, particularly in addressing climate change.”
Underscoring the moral role of faith communities, Pillay noted that “churches bring ethical discernment, theological grounding, and a unique capacity to mobilize communities in the pursuit of climate justice.” He also highlighted the “prophetic witness” of Pacific churches in responding to global challenges.
Waqa outlined the region’s pressing concerns, including climate change, security, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, cybersecurity, and unfair trade. He stressed that churches are vital partners in raising awareness and driving action: “Churches can work with us to push through, via congregations, our main concerns for the region. National and regional challenges must also become priorities for church engagement.”
Pillay was accompanied by Rev. James Bhagwan, general secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches and Dr Marcelo Schneider, WCC staff, while Waqa was joined by Gayle Manueli of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
Earlier in the day, Pillay met with Rev. Prof. Dr Upolu Luma Vaai of the Pasifika Communities University to explore academic and theological collaboration. Discussions focused on strengthening Pacific theological contributions to global discourse, particularly on climate change, and enhancing ecumenical education and research partnerships.
WCC general secretary meets state minister from Tuvalu (WCC news release, 11 April 2026)
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Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay met with Rev. Prof. Dr Upolu Luma Vaai on 13 April in Suva, Fiji.
Marcelo Schneider/WCC