KOIDU CITY, On the 24th August 2025, Bishop James Boye-Caulker officially inducted Rev. Ibrahim Ansumana as the District Superintendent of Kono District and Pastor in Charge of Gaston Memorial United Methodist Church. The historic service was held at the Koidu Joint Parish in Koidu City.
Mr. Sahr Sessie, the District Lay Leader, extended gratitude to Bishop James Boye-Caulker for the induction. He assured Rev. Ibrahim Ansumana that the doors of the District Executive remain open and pledged the district’s fullest support to ensure his success in this spiritual assignment representing the Bishop.
Rev. Michael Tejan Gbenday, Conference Secretary, expressed profound gratitude to God for a successful induction. He referenced the 2016 Book of Discipline, which grants the Resident Bishop the authority to induct appointed District Superintendents. He emphasised a return to the foundational roots of Methodism, and supported the Bishop’s call for worship in local languages to celebrate cultural uniqueness in glorifying God. He concluded by urging district members to work with the new Superintendent in love and unity.
The newly inducted Rev. Ibrahim Ansumana thanked God Almighty for his appointment through Bishop James Boye-Caulker. He vowed to serve the church with humility, uphold the Bishop’s call for peace, love, and unity, and collaborate closely with fellow pastors to successfully implement the Bishop’s vision. He earnestly called on all district members and pastors to support him in his spiritual duties.
In his address, Bishop James Boye-Caulker thanked God for the day of celebration. He clarified the protocol of pastoral induction, noting that while a District Superintendent inducts pastors into local churches, the Bishop holds the responsibility to induct a District Superintendent. He further explained that in his absence, the Dean of Cabinet would be delegated this duty. The Bishop congratulated Rev. Ibrahim Ansumana for accepting the appointment on behalf of the district.
The Bishop passionately called for forgiveness among the district members, urging them to follow the teaching of Jesus Christ to reconcile, put the past behind them, and unite as God’s people. He referenced the book of Jeremiah 1:4-7, quoting: *“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.’ ‘Alas, Sovereign Lord,’ I said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am too young.’ But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, “I am too young.” You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you
Reflecting on the charge given to pastors, “Take Thou authority to preach the word of God,” the Bishop emphasised that God-given authority is meant to build up, guide, and draw people closer to God, not to destroy. He reminded the clergy that their appointments are for service to the people, not for themselves and are for a designated time.
Distinguishing between power and authority, the Bishop described power as self-serving and divisive, while true authority fosters learning, consultation, and humility. He charged Ibrahim Rev. Ansumana to use his God-given authority to unify, rebuild, and work collaboratively, shunning all pride.
In his concluding admonition, the Bishop reminded Rev.Ibrahim Ansumana that his calling is from God. He urged him to embrace the model of a servant leader, prioritise transparency and accountability, and serve with humility and the fear of God.
