ICRC 2026: Press Release Day 5 (Oct 21)
The fifth and final day of the International Conference of Reformed Churches (ICRC) began with devotions led by Rev. Dr. Albert Coetsee from Deuteronomy 4:32–35. He reflected on God’s unique revelation to Israel and his gracious redemption of his people, pointing to their fulfilment in Jesus Christ. He emphasised that believers are called to wholehearted obedience, not to earn God’s grace, but in grateful response to it.
The conference continued with member church reports from the Free Church of Southern Africa (FCSA), the African Evangelical Presbyterian Church (AEPC), the Christian Reformed Churches in Australia (CRCA), and the Anugrah Reformed Presbyterian Churches in Bangalore, India. The reports highlighted encouraging developments in church planting, theological education, and evangelism, alongside challenges involving financial resources, ministerial training, religious restrictions, and the influence of secularism. Delegates joined in prayer for each of these churches.
The Missions Committee presented its report and introduced a new Missions Booklet to encourage greater cooperation and communication among member churches. The conference approved amendments to the committee’s mandate. Particular attention was given to the persecution of Christians, and the Diaconal Committee was subsequently requested to consider a formal mandate in this area. In the meantime, it was tasked with alerting member churches to opportunities for prayer and advocacy on behalf of persecuted Christians.
Five observer churches were introduced to the conference, representing Korea, Brazil, South Sudan, Angola, and India. Their representatives shared the history, present circumstances, and ministries of their churches, expressing appreciation for the fellowship of the ICRC and, in several cases, a desire for future membership.
The afternoon continued with reports concerning the Presbyterian Free Church in India, the Free Reformed Churches of South Africa, and the Reformed Presbyterian Church of India. Delegates heard of the ongoing challenges of Christian ministry in India, as well as the significant opportunities for mission work in Africa and the need for additional missionaries and supporting churches.
The Treasurer presented his report and the proposed budget for 2027–2030. The conference approved an amended budget, including an increase in funding for regional conferences to $15,000, and adopted guidelines for supporting regional conferences. A financial reserve target was also established to strengthen the ICRC’s long-term financial stability.
Several organisational matters were considered. The conference established a new Applications Committee to assist with membership applications and adopted amendments to the Regulations. It also mandated further exploration of the possible incorporation and charitable status of the ICRC, as well as the desirability of establishing a Christian Education Committee. Appointments and reappointments were approved for the Executive Committee and the various facilitating and operating committees for the next four years.
The conference also considered possible locations for ICRC 2030, including the Netherlands, the United States, and Brazil. Following discussion of costs, visa accessibility, and opportunities for international participation, the Coordinating Committee was authorised to determine the final location.
The day concluded with an opportunity for delegates to reflect on the conference. Appreciation was expressed for the church reports and the times of prayer that followed them, which had strengthened the sense of fellowship among member churches.
In his closing remarks, Chairman Rev. Dr. Aaron Bae expressed gratitude to the hosting church, The Korean Presbyterian Church – Kosin, for its dedicated work and praised God for his blessings upon the conference. Following prayer, he formally declared the 2026 International Conference of Reformed Churches closed.