Dear Friends,
I am grateful for the recent World Methodist Council meeting in El Salvador. What a joy to participate in the business of the World Methodist Council, enjoy beautiful El Salvador, and be together with Methodist, Wesleyan, United, and Uniting members from all around the world.
Highlights included:
- Powerful worship, presentations and panel discussions around the theme: “justice, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17)
- Learning opportunities about the country and culture of El Salvador;
- Celebration of the anniversary of the education committee (35th) and Wesley Men (25th);
- Visit to St. Oscar Romera’s home and burial place;
- Peace Award presented to Dr. Humberto Martin Shikiya;
- Recognition of retirements of two strong leaders in the World Methodist Council: Geneva Secretary Bishop Rosemarie Wenner and Executive Director of World Methodist Evangelism Rev. Dr. Kim Reisman;
- Reports and action items from various standing and operational committees as well as regional bodies and affiliate organizations;
- Sunday morning worship in a nearby local church followed by delivery of food to families in the community;
- And so much more.
Most importantly, we were reminded that the work of the World Methodist Council, along with our regional bodies and affiliate organizations, is making a difference all around the globe. As we should!
After all, we are Christ-followers, rooted in the Methodist way. We are people committed to holiness and justice, personal relationship with Jesus Christ and social transformation, grace and accountability, evangelism and discipleship, worship of God and service for others. We highly value ecumenism and education, social witness and theology, mission, evangelism and connection with one another. Those powerful combinations are central to our Wesleyan identity.
Thank you for being a part of the World Methodist Council. It is a privilege to serve alongside you in our ministry together.
Blessings,
Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett – President, World Methodist Council
