March 19, 2009

The World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Council for World Mission (CWM) are appealing for calm in Madagascar following a change of government after weeks of violence in the country.

"Our concern at this time is for the peace and welfare of all the peoples of Madagascar," says WARC's general secretary, Setri Nyomi. "We call on all parties to consider the will of the people in seeking the best way to ensure good governance now and in the future."

The Church of Jesus Christ of Madagascar, the largest Protestant church in the country, is a member of WARC and CWM. On Tuesday the church's president, Lala Rasendrahasina, was detained briefly by unidentified elements in the military following a meeting at the offices of the Christian Council of Churches of Madagascar.

Noting attempts over the past weeks by the Christian Council of Churches to convene a conference of reconciliation, CWM's general secretary, Desmond van der Water says, "We recognize the role that churches in Madagascar might play in reconciliation initiatives at this time and we pray for wisdom and understanding to guide their way."

"We are asking our member churches worldwide to keep the churches and all the peoples of Madagascar in their prayers," says Nyomi. "We affirm our continued commitment during this period of uncertainty and insecurity."

Van der Water adds, "The CWM global community of churches joins with our friends and colleagues at WARC in praying for renewed hope in a peaceful and harmonious future for all the peoples of Madagascar."

World Alliance of Reformed Churches