WCC NEWS: WCC extends congratulations to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land on consecration of Bishop-Elect Rev. Dr Imad Musa Haddad

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay extended congratulations to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land on the upcoming consecration of Bishop-Elect Rev. Dr Imad Musa Haddad, and expressed deep gratitude and appreciation to Bishop Dr Sani Ibrahim Azar for his faithful and dedicated episcopal ministry. Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, in the old city of Jerusalem. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 6 January 2026 “The consecration of a bishop is a moment of profound ecclesial significance in the life of the church and in the fellowship of churches,” wrote Pillay. “It is a sign of continuity in apostolic witness and of renewed commitment to servant leadership, entrusted by the Holy Spirit for the building up of the body of Christ.” Pillay noted that the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land holds a unique and indispensable place within the global ecumenical fellowship. “Your church embodies a faithful Christian witness amid complex political, social, and humanitarian realities,” he said. “The consistent support, collaboration, and moral leadership of your church has strengthened our accompaniment, advocacy, and peace-building efforts, grounded in international law, human rights, and the equal dignity of all people." The World Council of Churches reaffirmed its commitment to walk alongside the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land in solidarity, prayer, and partnership. “May God bless the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, guide Bishop-Elect Imad Musa Haddad in his preparation for episcopal ministry, and grant continued strength and wisdom to all who serve the church in this sacred and challenging context,” concluded Pillay.  Read the full letter Link to the livestream of the consecration service on 11 January    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