On a bustling four-lane road in India, Rev. Philip Vinod Peacock calmly guided a nervous visitor through heavy traffic, demonstrating both courage and care. Months later, in Germany, he refused to cross a quiet street against a traffic signal, saying simply, “This is Germany.” The stories, shared during Sunday’s installation service, offered a glimpse into the principled, careful, and relational leadership that colleagues say defines Peacock. On Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, at the Reformed Church in Hannover, Germany, the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) marked a historic moment. Peacock became the first leader from Asia to hold the position of a global communion, drawing friends, colleagues, and ecumenical partners from around the world to witness the occasion. A message from Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), was delivered on his behalf, highlighting the significance of Peacock’s appointment. Pillay, a former WCRC president, praised Peacock’s rare blend of scholarship, faith, and action. “Philip brings a rare combination of scholarship, faith, and action,” Pillay said. “His work on economic and ecological justice, his teaching on Dalit and feminist theology, and his prophetic voice in initiatives likeFocus Palestinehave inspired the Reformed family worldwide.” Peacock, who assumed office Jan. 1, previously served as WCRC executive secretary for justice and witness, guiding global initiatives on economic and ecological justice rooted in the Reformed tradition. An ordained minister of the Church of North India, he holds a Master of Theology from Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary and has taught Dalit and feminist theology at Bishop’s College in Kolkata. He is currently pursuing a PhD, and his scholarly work, mentorship, and publications have shaped theological and ecumenical discourse internationally. Pillay also highlighted Peacock’s organizational acumen and his ability to navigate complex global challenges, from climate change and migration crises to gender-based violence and political instability. “His extraordinary ability to network and cultivate relationships, alongside his commitment to justice and sustainability, will help build a solid foundation for the WCRC’s future,” Pillay said. The ceremony featured greetings from Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt, general secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), who underscored the long-standing relationship between Lutheran and Reformed traditions. She highlighted initiatives such as theWittenberg Witness, a shared commitment to reconciliation and justice, as examples of mutual enrichment. “While the Reformed tradition continually calls the church to justice, the Lutheran tradition reminds us of the centrality of grace,” Burghardt said. She emphasized trust, relationship-building, and the importance of defending freedom of faith, especially as Christians face growing challenges in parts of the world. She urged churches to model cooperation and multilateral engagement as a countercultural witness in an era of declining international collaboration. Both leaders praised Peacock’s ability to elevate the voices of marginalized communities, foster cross-cultural dialogue, and lead with humility, compassion, and inclusivity. Pillay’s anecdotes illustrated Peacock’s courage and respect for structure, qualities that shape both his decision-making and relational approach to leadership. “With his vision grounded in faith and justice, Philip Peacock’s leadership is set to inspire new generations of Reformed Christians to walk courageously in faith, hope, and love,” Pillay said. With more than 230 member churches in 107 countries, representing over 100 million Christians worldwide, the WCRC continues its mission of promoting unity, justice, and transformation across the global Reformed family. Ecumenical leaders expressed confidence that Peacock’s tenure will strengthen collaboration, deepen theological engagement, and enhance the Communion’s global witness. Watch the full video of the installation ceremony here. Visit ourFacebookandInstagramaccounts for photos from the ceremony. SOURCE>WCRC 
WCRC新任總幹事Philip Vinod Peacock牧師(左)及WCRC執委御恩(代表PCT)(右) |