Methodist Church in Kenya: 60th Annual Conference Proclaims a Season of Rebuilding

At the Methodist Resort and Conference Centre in Nairobi, the Methodist Church in Kenya gathered for its 60th Annual Conference under the theme from Acts 2:37, “Brothers and sisters, what shall we do?” The presiding bishop began by welcoming guests and giving thanks to God, saying that in God’s mercy and faithfulness, “truly this far the Lord has brought us.”

He described the church as grounded in the Wesleyan tradition and committed to scriptural holiness, social holiness, compassion, and practical Christian love, honouring the missionaries, ministers, evangelists, and lay workers whose sacrifice planted the seeds of faith in Kenya.

New Chapter for the Church

The bishop announced that the Methodist Church in Kenya had concluded its historic 60th Annual Conference, during which he was elected to serve as presiding bishop for the next five years, alongside the conference secretary‑elect and the conference honorary treasurer. He noted that the conference had also elected new bishops, “notably among them two lady bishops,” as a sign of commitment to gender representation.

He received this responsibility “with deep humility, gratitude and trust in the God who calls, equips and sends,” and thanked the immediate former presiding bishop, former presiding bishops, bishops, laity, clergy, and all delegates for their commitment to the business of the conference.

Speaking Honestly about the Past

The bishop then asked the church to speak honestly about its journey. He said that in the recent past the church had walked through painful seasons marked by internal tensions, leadership disputes, delayed retirements, concerns over mismanagement, and strained relationships. These challenges had caused pain within the church, discouraged many faithful members, and affected the church’s witness, raising questions both inside and outside.

Yet, he emphasised, through every trial God had sustained the church. By electing new leadership, he said, the conference had made “a clear and courageous statement”: the church refuses to be defined by division, and its path forward is one of unity.

He described how these challenges had wounded fellowship and tested unity, but affirmed that God often plants seeds of renewal in the darkest moments. The commitment now is to rebuild trust, strengthen institutions, and work together in unity.

Addressing Kenya’s National Moment

Turning to the wider country, the bishop said that Kenya stands at a delicate moment politically, economically, and socially. He stressed that the church speaks “not from political alignment but from moral conviction and the teachings of Christ.” From that conviction, he addressed several key areas.

On governance and integrity, he reminded all leaders, including church leaders, that power is stewardship, not entitlement. Corruption, he warned, continues to drain the nation’s strength, and so the call is for accountable, truthful, servant‑minded leadership that honours God and respects the people.

On cost of living and economic justice, he noted that many Kenyans are struggling with rising costs, joblessness, and inequality. He appealed for people‑centred and compassionate policies, saying that a nation cannot flourish when its citizens lack basic necessities. He also acknowledged efforts to stabilise the economy and welcomed signs of improving inflation, praying that the country would continue on an upward path.

On political tension and division, the bishop expressed concern about increasing polarisation and attempts to stir ethnic fear, especially in the context of recent by‑elections. As a church, he said, they affirm that Kenya must reject the politics of fear and embrace hope. Leaders must tone down incitement and uphold constitutional order, and national unity must come before personal ambition.

Youth, Dignity, and Work

The bishop devoted special attention to youth frustration and social disillusionment. Many young people, he said, feel unheard and discouraged. The church therefore calls for meaningful job creation, genuine empowerment, and structured engagement that affirms the potential and dignity of young people.

Mission and Partnerships

As he outlined his vision, the bishop reaffirmed that the Methodist Church in Kenya will remain a voice for the voiceless, a bridge of peace, a custodian of moral conscience, a partner in national development, and a defender of justice and dignity for every Kenyan. The mission focus will be on spiritual renewal, good governance within the church, strengthening schools and medical institutions, and expanding community transformation ministries.

He recognised other churches, faith communities, and national institutions as important partners for the good of the nation, and affirmed the church’s commitment to work with the government of the day in delivering services through its ministries, schools, hospitals, and institutions. The church, he said, is ready to work with both the government and external partners and donors, appealing for full confidence in this renewed season.

A Call to Walk Together

The address closed with a call to unity. The bishop appealed to the Methodist family and to the people of Kenya to walk together, leaving behind fear, division, and despair, and stepping into a future shaped by faith, courage, hope, and shared responsibility.

In the spirit of Christian partnership, he promised that the church will continue working with other denominations, faith communities, and national institutions for the good of the nation.