WCC general secretary to attend Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting in Fiji

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay will join church leaders from across the Pacific in Suva, Fiji, from 13-17 April for the Pacific Church Leaders’ Meeting (PCLM), a significant regional gathering promoted by the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) focused on strengthening unity, theological reflection, and collective action in the face of growing regional challenges.

Held at a pivotal moment for the region, PCLM 2026 will bring together a wide range of Christian leaders to reflect on shared concerns, including climate change, migration, leadership development, and the rising social impacts of drug use.

It is Pillay’s first visit to the Pacific region since he took office as WCC general secretary in January 2023.

Besides preaching at the welcome service, Pillay will share keynote presentations on topics like rising authoritarianism and religious nationalism and the WCC’s global ecumenical pilgrimage. The agenda also includes the Pacific Launch of WCC Decade of Climate Justice Action in partnership with PCC.

Also present will be WCC president form the Pacific, Rev. François Phiaatae. WCC general secretary will be accompanied by WCC staff Marcelo Schneider.

Participants will engage in worship, dialogue, keynote presentations, and community visits, fostering a collaborative and culturally grounded approach to leadership and discernment.

The meeting also serves as an important milestone in preparation for the 13th Pacific Conference of Churches General Assembly in 2027. Expected outcomes include a renewed shared understanding of the Household of God framework and the development of a preparatory document identifying priorities for future theological reflection and research.

Organisers highlight that PCLM 2026 is not only a forum for discussion, but a space for collective listening and spiritual renewal. As Pacific communities face increasing complexity and uncertainty, the gathering aims to strengthen the churches’ shared witness to hope, justice, and care for the region’s people and environment.