WCC calls to respect right to conscientious objection to military service

World Council of Churches. Photo: end-violence.org

Discussing the escalation of war in Ukraine, the Executive Committee of the World Council of Churches (WCC) has issued a call to ensure fundamental human rights during times of war. This was reported on the WCC website.

The statement draws attention to the horrifying human toll, destruction of homes, and environmental damage resulting from this war, calling "for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, an end to the invasion and occupation of Ukrainian territory, and the re-establishment of peace in the region".

Additionally, the WCC Executive Committee appeals also to the governments of Russia and Ukraine "to respect the fundamental human and moral right of conscientious objection to military service, even in times of war.”

The WCC Executive Committee met in Bogotá, Colombia, from June 6 to 11, 2024, where the governing body focused, in particular, "on absorbing the life and witness of churches at the heart of the Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity".

As reported by the UOJ, the World Council of Churches condemned the concept of "holy war" adopted by the RF.

Read also

Abp. Alexei: How to Pray as a Family

"If a family prays together," His Eminence said, "the household becomes a little tower in that vineyard."

Pat. Bartholomew Honors U.S. Traditions, Greek Heritage in Washington Visit

Bartholomew lays wreath at Arlington, meets with U.S. leaders, and blesses faithful in Virginia.

Police Return Relics of St. Raphael to St. Vladimir's Seminary

Yonkers officers, K9 unit honored with blessing and thanksgiving at the seminary.

Conference to Celebrate 100 Years of ROCOR in Germany

The event will take place from May 6-8, 2026 at the historic Blutenburg Castle near St. Job of Pochaev Monastery near Munich.

Patriarch of Alexandria Baptizes 100 in Madagascar

During his homily, Theodore II called baptism “the new birth of man."

Patriarch of Jerusalem Meets with President of Turkey

Theophilos III met with Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Constantinople. The following day, back in Jerusalem, Theophilos granted an audience to (among others) Abp. Nathanael of the Ethiopian Church in Jerusalem.