Tribute from WCRC (World Commuion of Reform Churches):
“In a world often divided by barriers of race, politics, and faith, the late Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick stood as a beacon of hope and unity. His life’s work, deeply rooted in the principles of justice and inclusivity, touched countless lives and shaped the global Reformed community in profound ways.
Kirkpatrick served as president of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) from 2004 to 2010. His leadership during this pivotal era guided the unification of WARC with the Reformed Ecumenical Council, resulting in the formation of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC). This transformative accomplishment was a testament to his vision for unity within the Reformed tradition and his commitment to justice and reconciliation.
Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the WCRC, reflected on their decades-long friendship and collaboration. He recalled meeting Kirkpatrick for the first time in 1996 during preparations for the document “Reformed Self-Understanding.” Nyomi described how Kirkpatrick’s welcoming spirit and theological insights left a lasting impression. “Cliff was a dear friend whose leadership and pastoral gifts were very inspirational in my ministry and ecumenical engagement,” he said.
Nyomi highlighted Kirkpatrick’s significant contributions during his WARC presidency, noting, “From 2004 to 2010, Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick was the president of the WARC. His experience as a church leader, his understanding of the mission of the church, his commitment to justice, and our friendship all added to a great time of working together. Under his presidency, WARC made great strides in our commitment to justice and united with the Reformed Ecumenical Council.”
Kirkpatrick’s leadership extended far beyond organizational successes. He was a theologian, a teacher, and a passionate advocate for justice. Alongside colleagues like Nyomi, he championed the Accra Confession, urging churches worldwide to embrace its call for economic and ecological justice.
Rev. Najla Kassab, president of the WCRC, emphasized his humility and pastoral heart. “We lost in the death of Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick, a special leader who impacted many lives around the Communion. His leadership was humble, pastoral, and focused on promoting church unity and strengthening global partnerships within the Reformed family and beyond. His eyes have always been on the witness of the church for Jesus Christ,” Kassab said.
Kirkpatrick’s legacy is not just a record of accomplishments but a profound example of faith in action. His work reminds us that the church’s role is to be a beacon of hope and justice in an often fractured world. As we celebrate his extraordinary life, we extend our deepest condolences to his daughter, Rev. Elizabeth Kirkpatrick, and all who mourn his loss. Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick may no longer be with us in body, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who strive to build a more just, compassionate, and united world.”