Annual Meeting of the Global Christian Forum International Committee

The International Committee of the Global Christian Forum (GCF) convened for its annual meeting in Rome from 20–23 April 2026, bringing together almost 30 representatives of major Christian traditions to review progress and plan future initiatives.

The Committee approved the annual report presented by Reverend Dr Casely Essamuah (Methodist Church, Ghana/USA), Secretary of the GCF, highlighting a year marked by significant ecumenical engagement. Particular attention was given to the strong ecumenical dimension of the funerals of Pope Francis and the installation of Pope Leo XIV, events at which the GCF was represented alongside numerous Christian partners.

Discussions focused on strengthening the Forum’s identity and advancing its distinctive “forum-style” ecumenism, centered on encounter, the sharing of personal and ecclesial faith stories, and relationship-building. The Committee noted the importance of regional and local Forum-like gatherings and emphasized the need to expand outreach, particularly among churches not historically engaged in ecumenical efforts and among younger Christians. This relational approach—prioritizing shared prayer, personal witness, and mutual understanding—resonates strongly with younger generations of Christians.

The Committee also began preparations for the Fifth Global Gathering, scheduled for 2029.

During their stay, members visited the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, where they met with Cardinal Kurt Koch, Prefect, Archbishop Flavio Pace, Secretary, and staff. Cardinal Koch underlined the Forum’s unique contribution to ecumenism: fostering trust through personal encounter, amplifying diverse Christian voices, and complementing formal theological dialogue with lived experiences of unity. Archbishop Pace introduced the Committee members to the history, mission, structure, and current activities of the Dicastery. The visit concluded with an exchange between Committee members and Dicastery officials on their respective responsibilities and ongoing dialogues.

During their time in Rome, participants also visited the Laudato Si’ Centre in Castel Gandolfo and the International Centre of the Focolare Movement in Rocca di Papa. They also joined the Sant'Egidio Community for a time of prayer and exchange at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere.

The GCF remains a unique global “open space” where churches and Christian organizations encounter one another, deepen relationships, and work together toward visible Christian unity.