Jalingo, Nigeria (March 23, 2025) – The United Methodist Church Nigeria (UMCN) has entered a new chapter with the installation of Bishop Ande Irenyang Emmanuel as the substantive bishop for the Nigeria Episcopal Area. The historic event took place during the church’s annual conference, held from March 17 to 23, 2025, at UMCN Nagatava.
The week-long conference, themed “Behold, I Am Doing a New Thing”, attracted members and mission districts from within Nigeria and neighboring Cameroon. Delegates from different parts of Taraba State and beyond gathered in an atmosphere of worship, reflection, and commitment to spiritual renewal.
A Call for Resilience and Faith
The highlight of the conference was the installation service of Bishop Emmanuel, which took place on the closing day. During the service, Bishop James Boye Caulker, a respected church leader and preacher, delivered a sermon rooted in Isaiah 43:19, emphasizing God's promise of renewal and transformation.
"Though the church has faced challenges, God is still at work and will do something extraordinary for believers," Bishop Caulker declared. He urged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and trust that God’s plans for the church will unfold in due time.
His message resonated deeply, especially as UMCN has navigated various trials in recent years, including leadership transitions and doctrinal challenges. The new bishop’s installation symbolized a fresh start, reinforcing the belief that God is leading the church into a season of progress and spiritual strength.
Ordination of 65 New Ministers
One of the most significant moments of the conference was the ordination of 65 new ministers on March 22, 2025. These included 7 deacons and 58 elders (reverends) who have now been formally commissioned to serve in the church’s ministry.
Presiding over the ordination, Bishop Emmanuel charged the new ministers to be faithful ambassadors of the gospel, carrying a message of peace, love, and salvation to the people. He reminded them that their role is not just a position of honor but a divine calling requiring dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment.
Among the newly ordained ministers was Reverend Philip Auta, who shared his gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead. Having been ordained as a deacon in 2020, his elevation to the position of an elder marked a milestone in his spiritual service.
"This is a sacred responsibility, and I pray for God’s wisdom to lead with integrity," Reverend Auta said. He also called on church members to support and pray for the newly ordained ministers as they take on their duties.
A Charge to Pastors: Emphasizing Responsibility
During the conference, a powerful charge was delivered by Dr. Philip Micah Doppah, the Dean of the UMC Southern Conference. Addressing pastors and church leaders, he issued a strong reminder of their duty to preach the truth without compromise.
"If a sinner dies without repentance, pastors will be held accountable," Dr. Doppah warned. He challenged ministers to be exemplary in both their words and actions, ensuring that their conduct reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Dr. Doppah further urged ministers to live lives characterized by humility, kindness, and a strong moral compass. He emphasized that pastors must not only speak about the gospel but embody its principles in their daily interactions.
Charting the Church’s Future: Resolutions and Commitments
Beyond the installation and ordination ceremonies, the annual conference also served as a platform for key decision-making. Throughout the week, church leaders and delegates engaged in discussions on the direction of the church and its role in society.
By the close of the conference, 25 resolutions and communiques were signed, outlining the church’s strategies for growth, mission work, and engagement with local communities. The discussions covered education, evangelism, and social outreach programs, reinforcing UMCN’s commitment to making a tangible impact in Nigeria.
Bishop Emmanuel’s Vision for the Church
In his first official address as the new bishop, Bishop Ande Irenyang Emmanuel expressed profound gratitude to God and the church community for entrusting him with this sacred responsibility. He assured members of his dedication to fostering peace, unity, and spiritual revival within the church.
"My prayer is for our church to remain a beacon of hope, love, and truth. We must continue to walk in faith and be unwavering in our commitment to God’s work," Bishop Emmanuel said.
The bishop also reaffirmed UMCN’s doctrinal stance, particularly on issues concerning Christian values and ethics. He reiterated the church’s opposition to same-sex marriage, maintaining that the UMCN will uphold biblical principles in all aspects of its teachings.
Looking ahead, Bishop Emmanuel emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the clergy and the laity to strengthen the church’s mission. He encouraged all members to be actively involved in church activities, evangelism, and social programs that promote spiritual and community development.
A New Era for UMCN
The installation of Bishop Ande Irenyang Emmanuel marks the beginning of a new era for the United Methodist Church Nigeria. With renewed energy and a clear vision for the future, the church is poised to continue its mission of spreading the gospel of peace, unity, and transformation.
As the 2025 conference concluded, there was an overwhelming sense of hope and spiritual revival among attendees. The church’s leadership, guided by Bishop Emmanuel, is expected to steer the UMCN toward greater heights, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches even more communities across Nigeria and beyond.
With prayers, dedication, and collective effort, the United Methodist Church Nigeria embarks on this new journey, confident that God’s “new thing” will unfold in the coming years.
.jpg)
.jpeg)
0 Comments