ICRC 2026: Press Release Day 2 (Oct 16)
The second day of the International Conference of Reformed Churches (ICRC) began with devotions led by Rev. Dr. Aaron Bae from Ephesians 2:19–22. He reflected on the unity of believers from different cultures and church traditions in Christ, and the church’s identity as God’s people, being built together for his purposes. The conference also prayed for the health of Mr. Mark Bube.
The conference continued receiving member church reports, hearing from the Reformed Churches in Spain (IRE), the Free Church of Scotland (FCS), the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland (RPCI), and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ireland (EPC). The reports highlighted developments and challenges in church planting, cross-cultural mission, theological education, Christian education, and the provision of ministers and other church workers. Delegates also prayed for the churches and their ministries.
In a closed session, the conference considered the proposed termination of the membership of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Africa (RPCA), Uganda, in light of its membership of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) at the time its application for ICRC membership was considered. Following discussion and the addition of a provision for pastoral counsel, the motion was adopted unanimously, terminating the RPCA’s membership with immediate effect. The conference also expressed the desire to address the matter pastorally and to encourage repentance.
The conference unanimously approved the application of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Peru (IEPP) for membership. The presentation highlighted the church’s history, its commitment to Reformed worship and the sufficiency of Scripture, its engagement with other churches, and its theological training through the Reformed Biblical Seminary, which cooperates with PRTS. The IEPP was formally welcomed as a member church of the ICRC.
The Publications Committee reported on developments in Lux Mundi, which is now published twice a year to allow for fuller editions, including reports from church assemblies. Delegates were encouraged to contribute articles and news from their regions and to distribute the publication more widely. The committee’s mandate was approved without objection.
The Regional Conference Committee reported on the current arrangements for regional conferences and the challenges of organising a conference in Asia, particularly in view of cultural differences and geographical distances. The discussion considered whether the existing regional divisions should be reconsidered, including the possibility of separate conferences for Asia and Oceania.
The evening concluded with an academic presentation by Dr Pieter Boon, a minister of the Free Reformed Churches in South Africa, entitled “Compassion Fatigue in the Diaconal Ministry.” A panel discussion and questions from the floor addressed the challenges associated with compassion fatigue in diaconal service.