WCC news: As UN Summit for the Future closes, WCC president welcomes “unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow for all”

During a multi-faith reception to mark the close of the UN Summit for the Future, Rev. Dr Angelique Keturah Walker-Smith, World Council of Churches president from North America, offered a perspective on taking the UN Pact for the Future forward. Photo: Gregoire de Fombelle/WCC 24 September 2024 The reception was organized in conjunction with the Multi-faith Advisory Council to the UN Inter-agency Task Force on Religion and Sustainable Development and a wide coalition of faith actors. The reception brought together speakers as well as informal conversations on the themes of the summit: peace, sustainable development, and the eradication of poverty. “This week marks a significant milestone—the adoption of the United Nations Pact for the Future,” said Walker-Smith. "In this moment, we pause to recognize the incredible potential of humanity when we act together for the common good.” She noted that the decisions and resolutions made at the UN Summit for the Future will influence the future for generations yet to come. “We believe that it is through collaboration, dialogue, and a shared commitment to values such as dignity, compassion, and justice that we can forge a future where all people—regardless of nationality, religion, or background—can thrive,” Walker-Smith said. “Our values call us to a higher moral responsibility—a responsibility not just to our communities, but to all humanity, and to the Earth itself.” Walker-Smith urged all to embrace the call to safeguard the dignity of every human being and the integrity of all creation. “We pledge to support the aspirations of this summit through prayer, advocacy, and action, walking alongside our global family as we strive for a future rooted in hope and mutual respect,” she said. “To our leaders, negotiators, and delegates: your work in this summit is not just a policy endeavor; it is a moral duty.” Walker-Smith further reflected that the Pact for the Future could serve as a beacon of light.  “Together, we have the power to ensure that the future is one of peace, justice, and abundance for all,” she said. “In faith, in hope, and in solidarity, we welcome the adoption of the United Nations Summit for the Future and commit ourselves to its vision. May we continue to walk this path together, strengthened by our shared values, and guided by the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow for all.” Photo gallery WCC welcomes adoption of United Nations Pact for the Future - WCC news release, 22 September 2024 WCC submits comments on draft UN “Pact for the Future” - WCC news release, 12 February 2024 Learn more about the work of the Ecumenical Office to the United Nations 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