By: Joe Edward Pormai
Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Resident Bishop of the United Methodist Church Sierra Leone Annual Conference (UMC-SLAC), Bishop Dr. James Boye-Caulker, has returned home from a strategic visit to the United States with renewed hope and a clear vision for revitalizing the Church’s partnerships and internal accountability structures.
Bishop Boye-Caulker departed Sierra Leone shortly after the conclusion of the 145th Annual Conference Session to attend the College of Bishops meeting and to engage with key international partners of the Church.
Speaking to senior conference officials upon arrival at the Sea Coach terminal in Freetown, the Bishop described the College of Bishops meeting as “a moment of reflection, encouragement, and unity,” where Church leaders across various episcopal areas shared ideas and strengthened fellowship. “The meeting gave us the opportunity to connect, share, and align our visions for the global mission of the Church,” Bishop Boye-Caulker said.
The Bishop also addressed concerns raised by international partners regarding the state of transparency and accountability within UMC Sierra Leone. He noted that such concerns had previously led to a decline in partner engagement.“It was a tough engagement,” he admitted. “Some of our partners had withdrawn due to issues of transparency and accountability, but by the grace of God, our conversations have restored confidence and hope.”
According to Bishop Boye-Caulker, many partners have expressed a willingness to resume support for the Church’s work in Sierra Leone, provided that tangible steps are taken to strengthen financial and operational integrity.“We must show our readiness and commitment,” he emphasized. “The partners are watching. It is our responsibility to prove that we are capable stewards.”
In a significant development, Bishop Boye-Caulker announced that a delegation from the Florida Annual Conference—led by Bishop Tom Berlin—is expected to visit Sierra Leone starting July 1, 2025, marking the beginning of renewed international collaboration and support.
Looking ahead, the Bishop expressed strong determination to lead the Sierra Leone Episcopal Area into a new era of growth and influence. “I am more hopeful and determined than ever to ensure that the Sierra Leone Conference becomes an enviable example in the West Africa Central Conference,” he declared.
He concluded with a call to action for all United Methodists in Sierra Leone: “Let us hold on to faith, hope, and courage. Together, we will rebuild and move forward.”
