WCC letter of condolences to the President of Switzerland upon fire in Grans-Montana

Geneva, 1 January 2026

Your Excellency,

On behalf of the World Council of Churches, a global fellowship of 356 churches and denominations, we wish to express our most sincere condolences for the tragic fire that occurred during the New Year’s Eve celebration in Crans-Montana.

Our hearts go out to you, and especially to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, in this moment of unimaginable grief and sorrow.

We commend the dedicated efforts of your government to alleviate the suffering of the affected families and to provide indispensable care to those who remain hospitalized, and we pray for their full and swift recovery.

We hold you and your nation in our prayers as you mourn the dead. We also remember in particular all those who are offering care and support to the many people affected by this tragedy, including victims and families of different nationalities.

Yours sincerely,

Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay 
General Secretary
World Council of Churches