Visit of WCC General Secretary (Melbourne) Prof Rev Dr Jerry Pillay

Rev Prof Jerry Pillay will visit Australia in June 2024 as a guest of the National Council of Churches in Australia, as it marks the 30th anniversary of its formation. He will be a key speaker at the NCCA national forum to be held in Adelaide. He will be in Melbourne for one evening only to speak at a public event. The venue is St Athanasius College (LaTrobe St, Melbourne/Naarm), 7 for 7.30pm, concluding by 9pm. 

Jerry will share insights about ecumenism from a global perspective, the imperative of church unity amid fragmented communities and escalating conflict, and what the global church might look like in the future for the sake of common witness and service in the world.

(This is a free event. Doors open at 7 for 7.30pm, concluding by 9pm)

Jerry was born in South Africa in 1965 into a family of Indian origin. He holds an impressive academic background, having earned a Bachelor of Divinity (Honours), a Master of Arts in Missiology and Church History and a PhD in Church History and New Testament, focussing on social development. He has held significant leadership positions in various Presbyterian churches and organizations. His dedication to theological education led him to become the dean of the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the prestigious University of Pretoria, where he has also served as a professor of theology.

With his rich background and experience in leadership, Jerry’s election as the General Secretary of the WCC in June 2022 (commencing on January 1st, 2023) marks a significant milestone in his journey of ecumenical service. His vision for the Church’s purpose and his commitment to standing with the marginalized reflect his deeply rooted values and passion for fostering justice, reconciliation, and unity on a global scale