WCC News: World Communion of Reformed Churches installs new general secretary

The World Communion of Reformed Churches installed Rev. Philip Vinod Peacock as general secretary on 1 February, during a ceremony held at the the Reformed Church in Hannover, Germany. Rev. Philip Vinod Peacock, general secretary of the World Communion of Reformed Churches speaks during the installation ceremony at the the Reformed Church in Hannover, Germany on 1 February 2026. Photo: World Communion of Reformed Churches 02 February 2026 Peacock assumed office as general secretary on 1 January, becoming the first leader from Asia to serve in this role. An ordained minister of the Church of North India, Peacock previously served as the World Communion of Reformed Churches executive secretary for justice and witness, where he led global work on economic and ecological justice rooted in the Reformed tradition. He holds a master of theology degree from Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary and has taught Dalit and feminist theology at Bishop’s College in Kolkata. He was elected unanimously by the World Communion of Reformed Churches Executive Committee in September 2025. In an introductory speech read during the ceremony, World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay reflected on Peacock’s gifts and commitments as a pastor, theologian, and ecumenical leader.  “The World Communion of Reformed Churches is an organisation that holds immense significance for me,” noted Pillay, who is a former president of the World Communion of Reformed Churches.  “This moment is indeed historic, marking the first time the position will be held by a leader from Asia,” shared Pillay. “But it also offers clues to the foundational commitments Philip brings to his work.” Pillay reflected that Peacock represents a rare combination of scholarship, faith, and action. “The theological depth of Philip’s work on Dalit theology and gender studies also signals a strong conviction that our theology, rooted in the gospel and illuminated by the Reformed tradition, must affirm that divine sovereignty and beneficence find expression in human dignity and wholeness,” reflected Pillay. “As a noted Dalit theologian, he brings a unique perspective that elevates the voices of marginalised communities, allowing their stories to resonate within the broader church context.” Pillay also shared his belief that Peacock possesses the organisational acumen essential for leading the World Communion of Reformed Churches effectively. “His heart for the church and its mission is evident in every interaction he has,” shared Pillay. “His friendly and caring nature warms him to people almost immediately.” Introductory speech by the WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay at the installation of Rev. Philip Peacock as General Secretary of the World Communion of Reformed Churches Learn more about the World Communion of Reformed Churches 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 356 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 Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland