WCC news: WCC eulogy for Baldwin Sjollema honors life of “man of profound faith and unyielding commitment”

A World Council of Churches (WCC) eulogy was delivered at Baldwin Sjollema’s funeral by Rev. Dr Konrad Raiser, former WCC general secretary, who represented WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay at the funeral.  Baldwin Sjollema speaks at the meeting of retired WCC staff in 2023. Photo: Gregoire de Fombelle/WCC 13 September 2024 The eulogy described Sjollema as “a man of profound faith and unyielding commitment to justice.” The visionary Sjollema’s work left an indelible mark on the fight for human dignity and the global struggle against apartheid.  “Baldwin was known for having become, in 1970, the first director of the newly created WCC Programme to Combat Racism, which made grants to southern African liberation movements, including the African National Congress,” reads the message. “It also advocated the withdrawal of investments from South Africa and the closure of bank accounts with those banks which supported the apartheid regime.” The eulogy describes Sjollema’s long history with the WCC, as well as him receiving, in 2004, the Oliver Tambo Order from South African president Thabo Mbeki. “He was decorated for his commitment to the South African liberation movement and to the struggle against apartheid in particular,” reads the message. “At that time, Baldwin himself acknowledged that millions of people were engaged in the struggle against apartheid all over the world.” Sjollema’s life was a testimony to the power of faith-driven action. “He knew that the struggle for justice was not simply a political fight, but a spiritual and moral battle for the soul of humanity,” reads the eulogy. “As we remember Baldwin today, we give thanks to God for his life and the witness he has shared with us. We honor his tireless dedication and his resolute faith. May his memory continue to inspire us to act boldly in the pursuit of a world where all people are free, and where justice flows like a mighty river.” Read the full eulogy WCC commemorates life and legacy of Baldwin Sjollema - WCC news release, 12 September 2024 See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland