World Council of Churches elects new General Secretary

The Norwegian theologian and pastor Rev Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, 48, has been elected the seventh general secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC).

"This task I really feel is the call of God. I feel that we have a lot to do together" said Tveit in his acceptance speech before the central committee. He stressed the spirit of unity that dominated the whole process and expressed hope that it will continue to reign in the
common journey. Tveit encouraged the committee members to continue praying for him"

Since 2002, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit has been the general secretary of the Church of Norway Council on Ecumenical and International Relations. Tveit is a member of the WCC Faith and Order Plenary Commission and the board of directors and executive committee of the Christian Council of Norway.

Dr Tveit will replace outgoing general secretary Rev Dr Samuel Kobia.