Methodist Bishop Urges Holiness, Communal Peace at 20th Annual Conference
The Presiding Bishop of the Global Methodist Church, Northern and Central Nigeria Annual Conferences, Bishop Jones Scott, has called on members to embrace holiness and shun actions that could disrupt communal peace.
Bishop Scott made the call while delivering a sermon at the 20th Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church of Nigeria (GMCN), held at Reverend Ali Masoyi Memorial Cathedral, Gwandum, Shongom LGA, Gombe State.
The conference, which commenced with a procession and song ministrations by various church groups, was filled with joy and celebration.
Theme and Sermon
Preaching on the conference’s theme, “So the world will know: The old has gone, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17), Bishop Scott emphasized that spiritual holiness is the foundation of a fulfilled life. He urged participants to embody Christ-like love within their families and communities.
Bishop Scott, who traveled from Georgia, USA, also prayed for a peaceful and more prosperous Nigeria.
On the Church’s Disaffiliation from UMC
Addressing the disaffiliation of the Global Methodist Church from the United Methodist Church (UMC), Bishop Scott encouraged members to remain peaceful and focus on evangelism and holy living.
Speaking on his visit to Nigeria, he stated that his mission was to oversee the annual conference and assess the church's progress.
Conference Discussions and Challenges
The Conference Superintendent of the Northern Annual Conference, Rev. Salama Hassan, highlighted the successes and challenges faced by the church. He reaffirmed the church’s stance against LGBTQ practices, which he said violate constitutional, traditional, and biblical doctrines.
In her remarks, Mrs. Beatrice Iliya, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of GMCN, acknowledged the challenges the church has faced since its disaffiliation from UMC. She urged members to remain united and prayerful, assuring them that legal procedures are being followed to resolve the issues.
Traditional Leaders and Delegates Speak
Traditional rulers, including District Heads of Filiya, Gwandum, and Burak—Mr. Haruna Birdeka, Mr. Yahaya Haruna, and Mr. Gondak Burak— reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace and religious harmony in their communities.
Participants such as Mrs. Amina Absalom and Mr. Raymond Biwai described the annual conference as a significant event for church members worldwide, pledging to implement the resolutions in their respective districts.
Regional Participation and Impact
The conference serves as a platform for decision-making on the growth and development of the Northern Nigeria Annual Conference, drawing delegates from Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Abuja, and parts of Taraba State.
End
This version enhances clarity, coherence, and professionalism while preserving the essence of your report. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!