By Joe Edward Pormai
The United Methodist Church Sierra Leone Annual Conference gathered from March 4 to March 9, 2025, at Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, Kissy Old Road, Freetown. This significant gathering brought together clergy, laity, and church leaders under the theme “That They May Be One” (John 17:21).
The conference was officiated by Bishop James Boye Caulker (Sierra Leone Episcopal Area), supported by Bishop Andy I. Emmanuel (Nigeria Episcopal Area), and Bishop Samuel J. Quire (Liberia Episcopal Area).
Among the notable guest speakers was Rev. Dr. Shekdankey B.E.B. Johnson of New Harvest Ministries, who congratulated Bishop Caulker on his election as Resident Bishop of the Sierra Leone Episcopal Area. Speaking on the conference theme, he encouraged delegates to embrace unity and steadfastness in faith, assuring them that God will provide for their needs.
Bishop John M. Pessima of the United Brethren in Christ Church also addressed attendees, commending the United Methodist Church for its global impact. He emphasized that the theme highlights the church’s identity and called for reconciliation, urging members to work together in rebuilding the church after the recent elections.
Additionally, Rev. Dr. Judy Chung, Executive Director for Mission Services of Global Ministries, expressed gratitude to Bishop Caulker for the invitation and for allowing the commissioning of Global Mission Fellows in Sierra Leone during the 145th Session of the United Methodist Conference. She highlighted the importance of mission work and the transformative role of the United Methodist Church worldwide.
Bishop Emmanuel highlighted the remarkable unity in Sierra Leone, stating, “One good thing we have learned here is: Sierra Leone is 100% United Methodist—no noise here. Thanks to Bishop James Boye-Caulker and your team for standing for the unity of the UMC.”
Similarly, Bishop Quire expressed his joy at witnessing the love and togetherness in the conference. “I am overwhelmed with the joy, love, and unity I see in the United Methodist Church Sierra Leone Annual Conference after the elections. The United Methodist Church should be one in love and unity,” he declared.
The Sierra Leone Annual Conference reported steady growth and engagement across various aspects of church life:
- Membership: Increased to 115,921, up from 115,671 the previous year.
- Worship Attendance: Stands at 66,012.
- Church School Attendance: 12,200.
- Professions or Reaffirmations of Faith: Increased to 27,534 from 26,433 in 2023.
- Worshippers Engaged in Mission: Rose to 12,200, up from 11,000 the previous year.
As the conference came to a close, Bishop James Boye Caulker delivered a powerful message of faith, unity, and renewal. He urged all United Methodists to embrace the spirit of oneness and go forth in mission.
“As we come to the close of the 145th Session of the Sierra Leone Annual Conference, I thank God for bringing us thus far in strength, peace, and love. Now is the time to stand together, hand in hand, as one body in Christ. Let us cast aside division and work tirelessly to build a church that reflects the unity and love of Jesus Christ. United Methodists, go forth and make disciples, transforming lives and communities through faith, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Thank you for your dedication and support. May God bless you all abundantly and keep you in His infinite grace. Amen!”
The Sierra Leone Annual Conference is actively planning new initiatives to further its mission, though no special annual conference has been scheduled. The leadership remains focused on fostering unity and strengthening the church’s presence in the region.
As the United Methodist Church in Sierra Leone continues its journey, the spirit of unity, faith, and mission remains at the heart of its endeavors, ensuring a thriving future for its members and ministries.
– Pormai is the Communications Director for Sierra Leone Annual Conference
