Monrovia — The 2026 Africa College of Bishops Meeting of The United Methodist Church has concluded in Liberia with bishops from across the continent renewing their commitment to expanding the Church’s mission, strengthening institutional sustainability and partnering with governments and civil society to address Africa’s social and development challenges.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh
The five-day gathering, held in Monrovia from August 31 to September 4, marked the first time Liberia hosted the Africa College of Bishops, bringing together active and retired bishops and other senior church leaders from across Africa.
Held under the theme, “Deepening Ecumenical Engagement, Expanding Continental Influence and Strengthening Institutional Sustainability,” the meeting focused on the future of The United Methodist Church in Africa and its role in promoting peace, justice, reconciliation and sustainable development.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the bishops issued a statement anchored in Isaiah 54:2: “Enlarge the site of your tent… lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes.”
Regionalization Taking Root
The bishops said the Church’s regionalization process is now taking effect across Africa, allowing United Methodists to conduct mission and ministry in ways that better reflect local contexts while maintaining connections with the worldwide denomination.
They said African regions are updating their Books of Discipline and establishing judicial courts as part of the transition.
The bishops also recognized the continued role of United Methodist general agencies in supporting the Church’s mission and maintaining connections across the denomination.
Several major denominational institutions provided updates during the meeting, including the General Council on Finance and Administration, Global Ministries, United Methodist Committee on Relief, United Methodist Communications, the General Commission on Religion and Race, Wespath and Africa University.
New Bishop Expected for West Africa
The bishops also celebrated what they described as continued growth of The United Methodist Church in Africa, pointing to plans for the election of a new bishop in the West Africa Regional Conference in December 2026.
According to the statement, the additional episcopal leadership is expected to help address the vast geographical responsibilities of the regional conference, which encompasses Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria, as well as mission districts in Senegal and Cameroon.
Guinea-Bissau, the bishops said, is also in the process of formally rejoining the West Africa Regional Conference and is expected to become part of the Sierra Leone Conference.
Discussions were also held on the feasibility of adding more bishops in Africa during the next quadrennium.
Bishops Push Wider Ecumenical Role
The gathering reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to ecumenical engagement, particularly on issues of peace, reconciliation, violence and public health.
The bishops said United Methodists across Africa continue to work with other Christian denominations and ecumenical organizations to confront major challenges facing the continent.
They specifically cited efforts to end wars and violence, promote peace and reconciliation, and respond to pandemics, including Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa.
The meeting brought together prominent Liberian Christian leaders, including the President of the Liberia Council of Churches and keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Samuel B. Reeves; Roman Catholic Archbishop of Monrovia, Most Rev. Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe; and Bishop of the Episcopal Church of Liberia, Rt. Rev. Dr. James Bombo Sellee.
Africa Eyes General Conference 2032
The Africa College of Bishops also received an update on preparations for the 2028 United Methodist General Conference.
The bishops welcomed efforts by the Commission on the General Conference to ensure that African delegates can participate fully and effectively in the global gathering.
But they went further, urging the wider Church to consider hosting the 2032 General Conference in Africa.
The call could give the continent a greater role in shaping the future direction of The United Methodist Church as its membership and influence continue to expand across Africa.
Backing AU Agenda 2063
The bishops also expressed support for the African Union’s Agenda 2063, “The Africa We Want,” saying its objectives are reflected in development and social initiatives being pursued within various United Methodist episcopal areas.
They called on African political leaders to champion equality, justice, peace, reconciliation and the wellbeing of citizens.
The Church, they said, remains committed to partnering with governments, civil society, ecumenical institutions and local communities to help build a peaceful, just, prosperous and sustainable Africa.
Call for Accountability
On church administration and finances, the bishops highlighted what they described as increased giving and apportionment contributions across their episcopal areas.
They also commended support for the Regional Conferences Theological Education Fund.
At the same time, they urged United Methodists to maintain high standards of accountability, transparency, generosity and responsible financial management, stressing that resources entrusted to the Church must be properly managed in support of its mission.
Liberia Receives Special Commendation
The bishops expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of Liberia for hosting the historic gathering.
They said Liberia occupies a special place in the history and mission of The United Methodist Church in Africa, making the country an appropriate setting for the meeting.
During their stay, the bishops interacted with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president and a lifelong United Methodist.
The College also commended the Government of Liberia, ecumenical partners, United Methodists, the Liberia National Police, development and institutional partners, sponsors, media organizations and individuals whose financial, logistical, moral and spiritual contributions helped make the gathering possible.
Host Committee Closes Its Mandate
The Special Committee established to host the meeting also formally concluded its mandate, expressing appreciation to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the event.
The committee was headed by Cllr. Amb. Medina A. Wesseh, Chairperson; Cllr. Ruth Jappy-Samukai, Co-Chairperson; and Jeremiah S. Swen, Secretary.
As the bishops returned to their respective episcopal areas, they said they were leaving Liberia with renewed commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ, stronger fellowship and a shared determination to “enlarge the tent” of the Church’s mission across Africa.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
