Document
Geneva, 30 November, 2022
Dear Archbishop Martin Modeus,
It is with immense gratitude that I address you on behalf of the fellowship of the World Council of Churches (WCC) at this very special milestone in your life.
On behalf of our worldwide fellowship of 352 member churches representing more than half a billion Christians around the world, we commend your ministry, your many ways of pushing for unity, and your legacy of strengthening the role of the church in society.
Your church have been an integral part of the WCC’s call to seek unity, and a common public witness and service to others in a world where hope and solidarity are the seeds for justice and peace. As we have worked with people of all faiths seeking reconciliation and a more equitable world, your work has inspired and lifted up many in large and small ways.
We have always treasured the Church of Sweden as one of the WCC’s founding partners, a partner that has exhibited and brought witness to a very strong commitment since 1948.
Since the early years of your ministry, you have been an ambassador for Christian unity, spiritual life, and formation.
The Church of Sweden have also consistently brought a spiritual perspective on urgent issues, including a special attention to interreligious dialogue. Following the steps of Archbishop Nathan Söderblom—whose statue we see every day and who many regard as the founder of modern ecumenism—you have drawn inspiration from those who appreciate your ministry.
Again, we want to reiterate out deep gratitude to the Church of Sweden—and all the Nordic member churches—for their strong, sustainable, longstanding commitment to the ecumenical movement.
God has blessed you with the gift of prophetic leadership for the trying times in which we all live. Over the years, we have also all enjoyed the fruits of your photographer's eye, which allows us to behold the beauty of creation. We very much look forward to hosting one of your exhibitions in the Ecumenical Centre in Geneva.
May the testimonies of gratitude addressed to you at this special time be an expression of the change you helped build in the world. May you continue in new and enjoyable ways your journey of justice, peace, and reconciliation. May God bless you and your family.
”May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca
Acting General Secretary
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General Secretary Elect