First Friday Letter
The World Methodist Council
Greetings from the General Secretary
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
August 2024
Warm Christian greetings as we make final preparations for Conference22 in Gothenburg, Sweden!
Like the athletes and event organizers gathered in Paris for the Summer Olympics, we’ve had years of preparation. The hotel management, host committee, and speakers are all ready to welcome you to Gothenburg.
This year marks the 143rd birthday of the Council. When the first Ecumenical Methodist Conference of four hundred delegates convened in 1881 for twelve days at Wesley’s Chapel in London, little did they know that the proverbial mustard seed planted would grow to become “home” to 82.5 million people of 82 Methodists, Wesleyan and related United and Uniting Churches in 134 countries around the world.
The Council is the only body that brings the global Wesleyan family together every five years at a Conference with a set number of delegates from member churches but open to all who seek to follow Jesus in the company of the Wesley’s.
Like in earlier editions of the First Friday Letter, we feature short biographies of speakers and the theme of their address or seminar. Please continue to pray for all proceedings and events at Council and Conference.
Wishing all safe travels to Council and Conference. If you are unable to be in Gothenburg from 14-18 August 2024, you can join us by following the updates on social media and our Council webpage at https://worldmethodistcouncil.org/
May our time together be spiritually uplifting as we renew friendships, participate in worship, engage in debate, and pray together.
Shalom, Ivan
Leaders and Speakers for the 22nd Conference
Rev. Dr. Thomas Risager will lead participants into the story of Odense United Methodist Church. Some 20 years ago, this traditional UMC was declining and the dreams about the future were not very optimistic.
Almost by accident (or by the leading of the Holy Spirit) a gospel choir was established. Today, the church has changed and is growing. The gospel music has given language to the singers’ doubt, longings and faith. This has led to a turnaround for the Odense United Methodist Church.
Dr. Risager will demonstrate how the use of music as a catalyst for change is very similar to the use of contrafactum music in the rise of Methodism.
He is a District Superintendent of the Danish Annual Conference, and is the Senior Pastor of Odense United Methodist Church, Denmark. He has a M.Div. from Överås, The Nordic Methodist Theological Seminary, Gothenburg and a Doctorate of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington DC.
Rev. Dr. Gordon Wong, the Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore, is known worldwide for his insightful, inspiring and thought-provoking sermons, which offer hope and strength.
Bishop Dr Wong embarked on his calling as a Methodist pastor in 1986 and served a number of churches. He taught for 17 years at Trinity Theological College, where he was the Bishop William F. Oldham Professor of Old Testament. He was elected President of the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) and served from 2012 to 2020 before he was elected from among the 46 eligible candidates to the office of the Bishop of MCS for the quadrennium 2020–24.
Bishop Wong serves as spiritual leader to 44,000 Methodists in 46 churches as well as to the 15 Methodist schools and other Methodist agencies such as Methodist Welfare Services and the Methodist Missions Society.
He holds a BA (Theology) from The London School of Theology and a PhD (Old Testament) from The University of Cambridge. His publications include pastoral Old Testament commentaries on Daniel, Habakkuk, Ruth and Isaiah.
He and his wife, Lai Foon, who is resident conductor of the Methodist Festival Choir, have two children, Deborah and Jeremy.
Ms. Areej Masoud, a Palestinian Christian of Aramaic heritage, founded Khayari, a Palestinian Women Leadership and Economic Empowerment Organization.
With a decade of experience in development and advocacy, she amplifies Palestinian voices, guided by her faith’s values of justice and compassion. Areej also serves as the Community Coordinator for visiting pilgrims with Experience Mission, fostering cross-cultural understanding, experiences, and solidarity.
She pursued her education in religious studies at Bethlehem University, deepening her understanding of the rich spiritual heritage that informs her work.
Continued on Page 3
Leaders and Speakers for the 22nd Conference
The Kwanglim Choir is an ensemble composed of seven top-tier soloists from the Sunday service choir of Kwanglim Church. All members are professional vocalists who perform at various churches and gatherings. Notably, in 2023, they gave a special performance at the 4th KMC-UMC-WMC Roundtable for Peace on the Korean Peninsula held in Korea. The accompanying instrumentalists play the piano, gayageum, and saenghwang. The gayageum is a traditional Korean string instrument played by plucking the strings, while the saenghwang is a traditional Korean wind instrument played in a manner similar to a Western organ.
Bishop Rosemarie Wenner of Eppingen was nurtured by a small UMC congregation there in southern Germany. She studied at the United Methodist Theological Seminary in Reutlingen, and in 1981 was ordained as an Elder in the Germany South West Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. She served as pastor of various congregations, and was then appointed Superintendent of the Frankfurt District in 1996.
She was elected Bishop in 2005 at the Germany Central Conference in Wuppertal – the first woman elected to the United Methodist episcopacy outside of the United States. From 2012 to 2014 she served as President of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.
Following her 12- year-term in the Episcopacy, Bishop Wenner was chosen as the Geneva Secretary of the World Methodist Council (WMC), connecting the work of the WMC with the World Council of Churches and other ecumenical bodies such as the Global Christian Forum, a position she continues to hold.
Upolu Luma Vaai (PhD) is Principal and Professor of Theology & Ethics at the Pacific Theological College, Fiji. A Trinitarian and decolonial theologian, who leads the establishment of a new regional Pasifika Communities University (PCU) premised on the ‘whole of life’ spiritualities and communities-based learning approaches of the Pasifika household of God to address social and ecological issues of development. He is an ordained minister of the Methodist Church of Samoa.
Upper Room’s Prayer Support for World Methodist Conference
The prayer room, located in R21 of the convention center, will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. as a sacred place of rest, peace, and prayer. All attendees are welcome to visit and engage with a series of multi-sensory prayer experiences. As people “on the move” in daily life, these prayer practices can be carried as a reminder of God’s faithful presence.
The digital prayer guide will feature a suggested spiritual practice for each day in addition to the meditations, scripture reading, Thought for the Day, and prayer focus. Participants who prefer a physical copy of the prayer guide are invited to download and print the guide at home before the event. At the event, a few printed copies will also be available in the prayer room, R21. The prayer guide will be available for download by email to attendees soon.
Are You Ready for the 22nd World Methodist Conference?
Sweden ”On The Move” is an occasion that deepens faith, bonds together, creates energy for growth and discerns future contours of ministry, service and leadership among the world family of Methodist peoples, churches and conferences.
Be sure to check out program information and the updated schedule here!
Keep up with us through our webpage and check out daily updates at https:// worldmethodistcouncil.org/!
Have you Received Your Press Pass?
Information for Press and Media
About the 22nd World Methodist Conference
The World Methodist Conference is a global gathering of the Methodist, Wesleyan and Uniting family held every five years in a different part of the world. The Conference is organized by the World Methodist Council.
Location: The 22nd World Methodist Conference will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden
Theme: “On The Move” Organized around three sub themes – Migration, Pilgrimage and Guiding Lights
Purpose: As we navigate around these three themes we search for justice and peace for all the world’s inhabitants, especially those living on the fringes. The Methodist family, from its beginning has followed the example of Christ in seeking ways to serve our fellowman and love our neighbor. The Conference will give those participating an understanding of how to travel forward.
Local Hosts: The Uniting Church in Sweden with support of the Danish and Norwegian United Methodist Church.
If you are interested in a Media/ Press Pass contact the World Methodist Council Headquarters Office by email at media.press@worldmethodistcouncil.org now!
IMPORTANT REMINDER - On the opening night, instead of the traditional “parade of banners”, we ask that each denomination bring an object no more than 30X30cm in dimension, a symbol of your Church or region. Each Church will be introduced in alphabetical order and the leader/symbol bearer will place the symbol/object at a predetermined place, a candle-lit stand which will be used as a prayer station. There will be signage with the name of your Church and ushers will assist you.
Please send the name of your representative who will carry the symbol in the Parade of Member Churches to the stage area to info@worldmethodistcouncil.org
Church of the Nazarene in Luxembourg continues to thrive
The Church of the Nazarene in Luxembourg is one of the youngest Nazarene churches in the world. This small church was founded by Antonio Cardoso when he moved to Luxembourg about seven years ago with a big dream: to plant a church in a country where people often live comfortable lives and God’s presence can be forgotten or even considered unnecessary.
The journey began with Sunday services held in Cardoso’s apartment, attended by just a few families. Despite the many challenges, including the lack of a permanent place to gather and the absence of a full-time pastor, God’s grace and glory shone brightly. The congregation experienced firsthand what a true church is: the Body of Christ is comprised of its people. Even without a dedicated building, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully within the community.
The church’s resilience was tested early on. When Cardoso’s apartment lacked space for the growing number of attendees, a Catholic priest kindly offered the use of a small chapel. However, this arrangement was short-lived, and the congregation was again without a physical home. For a year and a half, they met virtually on Zoom. This period of online worship was a testament to their adaptability and faith as they continued to grow and support one another despite the physical distance.
Reflecting Luxembourg’s multicultural nature, the church strives to embrace diversity. Worship services are held in multiple languages, and the con-
gregation engages in various activities with Christians from different countries, fostering a spirit of koinonia—Christian fellowship or communion. This multicultural approach is a cornerstone of the church’s identity, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive community for all.
One of the highlights of the church’s calendar is its family camp, renowned for its multicultural ambiance, good food, and great fellowship. Last year, this camp was the site of a significant milestone: the church held its first baptism, celebrating the faith of two young people.
Additionally, the church found a permanent location, and the youth have started a Bible study on Zoom. The study has attracted participants from different countries united by membership in the same church.
The Nazarene church in Luxembourg has thrived through God’s grace and the dedication of its members. Embracing a multicultural mission and celebrating significant milestones, this young church continues to grow and inspire. It is a testament to the enduring power of community, faith, and the Holy Spirit, embodying what it truly means to be the Body of Christ.
--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia Region
Tent of Nations Update
A message from the 2017 WMC Peace Award Recipient
I am writing to inform you about a recent development concerning the re-registration session for our Nassar family land. We received a message from our attorney stating that the Land Registration Committee of the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank has decided to cancel the session that was scheduled for July 2, 2024.
Our attorney’s message reads as follows:
“After waiting for an entire year, it is very unfortunate that the Land Registration Committee delays the session one day before the session without giving any reasons beyond: ‘due to reasons related to the constraints of the committee’.
As you are aware, the sessions until today have proved beyond any doubt the Nassar family’s exclusive claims to the land, and it was very clear that the Land Committee would have to complete the re-registration process.
It is evident that, as part of a political decision not
to re-register the Nassar family’s land, the Land Committee finds that the only way to prevent the re-registration is to continue with endless delays and cancel the sessions for no reason whatsoever.
Clearly, the Land Registration Committee is aware that there is no legal basis to prevent the re- registration of the Nassar family land, and therefore it simply chose to cancel the session after we have been waiting for nearly a year. No new date has been given yet.”
In light of this situation, we kindly request the following actions:
1. Please forward this information to your representatives and urge them to contact the Israeli authorities to demand an immediate new date for the re-registration session. Justice must be served after more than 30 years of struggling in the Israeli courts.
2. While the case is pending in court, Israeli settlers may continue to create facts on the ground. Please ask your government to provide protection for the Nassar family and their farm.
3. The Tent of Nations urgently needs an international presence of volunteers at the farm for protection and to assist with cultivating, farming, and developing the land.
We are going through a difficult time and greatly appreciate your support in this long journey for justice. Thank you for your continued accompaniment and solidarity.’
Message from the Tent of Nations was shared on the UK/Irish Ecumenical Accompaniers network of EAPPI (Ecumenical Accompaniers Programme for Palestine and Israel)
12th Annual Unity Summit and General Connectional
Presiding Bishop Clarence Kelby Heath of the Fifth Episcopal District and Chair of the Unity Summit Finance Committee invites CME’s to attend the Annual Unity Summit and the General Connectional Board Meeting held September 2-6, 2024 at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX. Please plan to attend this important, inspiring event, and participate in the informative activities, training classes, and meetings!
Click Here to Register and View the Unity Summit Program Schedule
Daoud Nassar of The Tent of Nations
Small Acts that Make a Big Impact
A LITTLE FAITH AND A LITTLE (MUSTARD) SEED MONEY
An UMCOR Mustard Seed Migration Grant encourages churches in the U.S. to stretch further into mission with local immigrant communities.
See how churches in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Ohio welcomed the stranger in their communities in small, yet life-changing ways.
Read more ›
TAKING CHURCH TO THE STREETS
In Rome, Italy, missionary Eliad Dias dos Santos helps the church extend its presence into the
streets to develop ministry that truly serves the people who live there.
Read more ›
GREENHOUSES ENRICH LIVES
With support from the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative, two greenhouses at Zimbabwe’s Hanwa Mission are helping to fight climate change and grow education at the mission’s schools.
Read more ›
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS UMCOR?
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, UMCOR is supporting disaster response efforts in both the Caribbean and the United States. UMCOR awarded solidarity grants to the Jamaica, Haiti and Southern Caribbean districts of the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA). In the U.S., UMCOR awarded four solidarity grants to the Texas Annual Conference and is supporting relief efforts in Vermont with a solidarity grant.
22nd World Methodist Conference Gothenburg, Sweden 14-18 August
Please send press releases, articles and resources! Submissions should be a page or less (450-500 words), edited and ready to publish. Contact us by Monday, 26 August at communications@worldmethodistcouncil.org if you would like your story to be included in the September edition of the First Friday Letter.
On the Web
This and past First Friday Letters can be found online at FirstFridayLetter.worldmethodistcouncil.org.
The World Methodist Council’s website may be found at worldmethodistcouncil.org
The World Methodist Council’s Conference website is at worldmethodistconference.org
About the First Friday Letter
The First Friday Newsletter is a monthly publication of the World Methodist Council.
Publisher: Bishop Ivan Abrahams, General Secretary Communications: Michaela Bryson
To subscribe to this newsletter, please email communications@worldmethodistcouncil.org. Follow the Council on social media!!
All stories and photos, unless otherwise stated, are protected by their respective copyrights. Please do not copy without expressed written permission from the Council.
Methodist Council