2012 Iowa Ordination
2012 Iowa Conference Elders in Full Connection. Back: Jessica Rockhold Gual, Jonathan Bailey, Nan Smith, Jay Amundson, Jason Princer, Joshua Steward and Heecheon Jeon. Front: Christie John, Sherrie Ilg, Brian Oliver, Bishop Trimble, Ande Emmanuel, Mara Bailey and Norman Kelley. (Photo by Rev. Dr. Arthur McClanahan)
Iowa Annual Conference | January 07, 2025
The Rev. Ande Ikimun Emmanuel, a leader deeply rooted in faith and service, was elected bishop in The United Methodist Church’s West Africa Central Conference on December 7, 2024.
Eveline Chikwanah of the United Methodist News reported that, Emmanuel, 44, secured 37 of 59 valid ballots on the first vote during the conference, held December 5-8 at the Best Western Premier Hotel in Accra. With a minimum of 36 votes required, his election was met with enthusiasm and hope.
In his post-election remarks, Emmanuel emphasized the importance of unity in The United Methodist Church. “I am calling for a time of unity, and I pledge that the No. 1 priority for me is how to unite the different factions that have been in The United Methodist Church. I want to send a message of peace, unity, and forgiveness,” he told UM News.
Emmanuel’s path to ministry reflects a story of global connection and mission. After completing his ordination requirements in Nigeria, Emmanuel traveled to the United States to attend Wesley Theological Seminary. It was there that a pivotal moment in his faith journey unfolded: his ordination in the Iowa Annual Conference in 2012. At the request of Nigerian Bishop Arthur F. Kulah, Bishop Julius C. Trimble of Iowa performed Emmanuel’s ordination as a courtesy.
“Being ordained by Bishop Trimble was a joyous day in my life,” Emmanuel said.
Iowa Hands On
Bishop Julius C. Trimble (lower left) and Beverly Nolte (upper center) lay their hands on Ande I. Emmanuel during the 2012 Ordering of Ministry Service. (Photo by Rev. Dr. Arthur McClanahan)
During his time in Iowa, Emmanuel worked as a camp counselor at Wesley Woods Camp and Retreat Center in Indianola during the summer of 2012. He fondly remembers activities like fishing and bowling with campers. Beyond the camp, Emmanuel spoke at churches, raising awareness and support for ministry projects in Nigeria. Among his cherished memories were visits to the PET project site, Davis County School, and even an Amish farm. “That is something that will stick with me forever,” he reflected.
Beverly Nolte, one of the founders of the Iowa-Nigeria Partnership (INP), recalls Emmanuel’s time in Iowa as a period of mutual growth and shared mission. “We (The INP) supported him, and he was in my home many times. He is an energetic, well-schooled family man,” she said. The INP, was established as a covenant to share in global mission and ministry, was instrumental in supporting Emmanuel during his seminary journey.
As Emmanuel steps into his role as bishop of the Nigeria Episcopal Area, Nolte offered her heartfelt blessing. “I wish you success, fairness, and compassion in your endeavors for the Lord.”
Now leading amidst the challenges and opportunities of a global church, Bishop Emmanuel carries lessons from both Nigeria and Iowa. His election serves as a reminder of The United Methodist Church’s interconnected mission, one that transcends borders and unites communities in faith.
Courtney Levin
Courtney Levin is Communiations Officer for the Iowa Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. This article is republished with permission from the conference website.