Statement by the WCC Presidium in Czechia on the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution

With gratitude to God, we remember all those who made sacrifices, were willing to endure adversity, injustice and other hardships in this struggle for freedom even before 1989. We thank all those who did not give up this struggle because their brave fight against totalitarian power brought about important changes in society. However, it did not end with the Velvet Revolution. Today we face new challenges and problems that threaten our regained freedom. There is a growing polarisation in society, a lack of sensitivity to recognise the aggressor and his actions across national borders. We are aware that even today it is necessary to defend and bring into society values such as truth, justice, hope, faith and love, which will not distort freedom but will instead develop it. These efforts for freedom will only succeed if we do not allow evil to triumph over good. "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21. We pray that our society will cherish these values and be shaped in their spirit for years to come.

WCC Presidium in the Czech Republic
Tomáš Tyrlík, Chairman
Ivana Procházková, 1st Vice-Chairperson
Bronislav Matulík, 2nd Vice-Chairperson
Marián Čop, Secretary General