The National Council of Churches (NCC) held its annual Christian Unity Gathering in Philadelphia from October 12 – 16, 2026. Christian leaders and faith communities gathered for worship and learning centered on religious freedom, unity, and the responsibility of care for one another.
Philadelphia Yearly Meeting is a member of NCC, a coalition of faith communities that works together on issues that affect people facing hardship. Through this affiliation, Philadelphia Yearly Meeting stays connected with other churches and shared efforts that reach beyond our region.
On Thursday, October 14, participants visited Arch Street Meeting House for worship and activities introducing the Religious Society of Friends’ history and Quaker faith and practice. During the gathering, Bridget Moix and Amelia Kegan of the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) received the J. Irwin Miller Award in recognition of their commitment to church unity.
The NCC Governing Board issued four public statements addressing religious freedom, opposition to a livestreamed execution at Fort Hood, humanitarian concerns in Cuba, and voting rights.
NCC released a 2026 Voter Empowerment Guide with resources for faith communities preparing for the upcoming elections. The guide is available online, along with information about how meetings can use it.
Friends interested in staying connected to what is happening with NCC are encouraged to sign up for their newsletter or connect with them on their website.
