A new global organization representing some 80 million reformed Christians was formed yesterday during a meeting in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The establishment of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) was approved unanimously by some 380 delegates from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) – a Geneva-based group representing some 75 million Christians in over 100 countries – and the Reformed Ecumenical Council, who are based in Michigan and represent 5 million Christians in 25 countries.

The vote happened during the first day of the Uniting General Council meeting, which is being held until June 28 on the campus of Calvin College.

Congratulating the group was the general secretary of the World Council of Churches, the Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, who called the union "a historic moment for the churches of the Reformed family and for the church of Christ everywhere."

"This is a new expression of the visible unity of God's church, and as such it represents both a gift from God and a sign of hope," Tveit added. "I trust that it will strengthen the contribution of the Reformed churches to unity, peace and justice."

According to WARC General Secretary the Rev. Setri Nyomi, the term 'communion' in the new organization's name points to a new form of working relationship, where the groups "recognize our common baptism and our togetherness at the Lord's table - making us better witnesses and more effective in making a difference in the world."

"In these times of division and dissension in so many areas of our lives – including church life – it is highly significant that two global groups of churches […] should be willing to come together in a higher level of union than ever before," REC General Secretary the Rev. Dr Richard van Houten added.

The new organization's articles of union affirm "that such an act of union is implemented not only in order to carry out the major aims for which both organizations have existed separately, but also in order to respond to God's call for service in the church and the world."

Following the merger, a lively afternoon discussion on the passage of a constitution and bylaws went beyond schedule, mostly over the issue of representation of women on committees and in leadership positions in the new body.

After more than 90 minutes of debate, the group amended the document to provide that "when a church sends four or more delegates (to General Council meetings), half shall be women." The drafting committee's recommendation was one-third women.

"We had a very vigorous and intense conversation. It may have taken us longer than we thought it would," but God remained with delegates and the Holy Spirit helped to guide the discussion, said Clifton Kirkpatrick, president of WARC, who chaired the discussions for his organization that led to the formation of the WCRC.

"I do believe it is God's intention that we live together in unity and I thank God for this momentous day in which we are not just called to be more cooperative, but to be one in Jesus Christ," Kirkpatrick added.