Thank you for donating your private archives to the WCC. What’s the purpose of the donation? What can scholars find in the material? Rev. Dr Raiser: My collected papers, i.e. correspondence, articles, speeches, academic lectures, etc., span the period from 1969 to 2025. They reflect the development of the ecumenical movement during these decades and can help to interpret the processes of change. Since I have had the privilege of being part of these significant processes and served in leadership roles of the WCC, I felt that my written legacy belonged to the WCC Archives. For scholars interested in the history of the WCC, these papers might serve as an important resource. What is the most important role of the WCC Archives? Rev. Dr Raiser: The ecumenical movement represents one of the most significant features in the history of the Christian church during the last more than 100 years. The WCC Archives serve as a unique resource for historical research covering not only ecclesial developments but also significant processes of social political change. Since major parts of the archives are accessible in digitized form, they constitute a unique resource for research. What do you take with you from the visit to the WCC and meeting with the staff? Rev. Dr Raiser: It was my first visit to the new location of the Ecumenical Centre in the Kyoto building. Since more than 22 years have passed since I ended my service with the WCC, there were only few colleagues present with whom I had worked before. But I was very much encouraged during my meeting with the staff to feel the same sense of commitment to the cause of unity, peace, and justice. How would you describe the WCC’s role today? What are the most burning issues in the ecumenical movement in 2026? Rev. Dr Raiser: The WCC is continuing to exercise a prophetic role regarding justice and peace. This finds expression in the new decade for climate justice focussing specifically on hope for the children. In addition, the WCC will have to spell out the call to unity afresh in response to the challenges of the post-colonial perspective. The universal accessibility and use of electronic media of communication provides new possibilities for convening the fellowship of churches around burning issues. How can the WCC contribute to a more just and peaceful world? Rev. Dr Raiser: For the WCC, the main resources for action are the churches and their members themselves. The Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity represents a transformative spiritual journey involving the churches in their local efforts to contribute to social justice, reconciliation, and peaceful relations. What’s your main message to the church leaders and pastors today? Rev. Dr Raiser: In a world disturbed and obsessed with bad news about crises, conflicts, wars, and destruction, church leaders and pastors are called more the ever to proclaim the good news of the gospel and the divine promise of the fullness of life. WCC Digital archives
Photo gallery of the visit | 
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