2024 World Methodist Council Meet in Gothenburg, Sweden

The World Methodist Council (WMC) gathering in Gothenburg, Sweden in August provided a platform for faith leaders from Methodist, Wesleyan, United, and Uniting Churches to listen, respond, and unite in their shared mission to be agents of transformation in a world marked by pressing global challenges.

A Strong New Zealand Delegation

The New Zealand delegation included me, President-Elect Te Aroha Rountree, Rev. Tony Franklin-Ross, and Marama Hotere. We will now serve on the World Methodist Council for the next five years, contributing to global Methodist discussions and decision-making on behalf of Aotearoa. We were joined by other New Zealand Methodists who travelled to participate, including Rev. Mark Gibson, Rev. Alisa Lasi, Rev. Tevita Finau, and Felonitesi and Lavoni Manukia.

The event held special significance for me as I was elected to the WMC Steering Group following my role as Parliamentarian during the Council's proceedings. I also introduced consensus decision-making, a model that aims to foster greater unity and clarity in the Council's discussions and resolutions as it is further implemented.

Resolutions on Global Issues

At the heart of the Council's work were urgent global concerns, and resolutions were passed on several critical issues, including the conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Korea. These resolutions reflect the ecumenical Methodist Church’s commitment to justice, peace, and solidarity with all those affected by violence, war, and oppression. The Council’s engagement with these issues underscored the urgent need for the Church to advocate for peace and reconciliation in regions facing immense suffering.

The Council’s collective prayers, discussions, and resolutions focused on calling for an end to violence and also on mobilising the Church to provide practical support and humanitarian aid to those affected. These resolutions serve as a rallying call for Methodists around the world to act as peacemakers, rooted in faith and guided by the teachings of Christ.

Leadership Transition and Headquarters Relocation

A major announcement at the meeting was the relocation of the WMC administrative headquarters from the United States to London, England. This move aligns with the election of the new WMC General Secretary, Reynaldo Ferreira Leão Neto, whose leadership will now be centred in the historic heart of Methodism.  Leão Neto succeeds outgoing General Secretary Rev. Ivan Abrahams, who has served with distinction and guided the Council through a period of significant global change. Rev. Abrahams, also the chair of the Programme Committee, played a pivotal role in shaping the meeting’s agenda and selecting speakers who addressed some of the most pressing issues of our time, including climate change, poverty, and war. These speakers drew attention to the disparities faced by different communities around the world and challenged the Council to consider how Methodism can be a force for positive change.

Honouring Distinguished Service

One of the most touching moments of the gathering was the presentation of the Honourable Order of Jerusalem to outgoing Steering Group member, Rev. David Bush. This prestigious award, one of the highest distinctions within global Methodism, recognises individuals whose service to the global Methodist/Wesleyan family has been marked by honour, dedication, and distinction. Rev. Bush's long-standing commitment to the Methodist Church, both in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally, was celebrated by all in attendance, with many expressing gratitude for his leadership and faithful service.

Unity and Challenge from the Uniting Church of Sweden

The Uniting Church of Sweden served as a gracious host for this momentous gathering, welcoming delegates with warm hospitality. They provided a space where delegates could experience both the shared bonds of Methodist and Wesleyan traditions and reflect on the diversity of global experiences.

Speakers and leaders challenged attendees to embody the transformative spirit of Methodism in their own contexts. From climate justice to economic inequality and from the ravages of war to the pressing need for peace, the call was clear: Methodists must not only proclaim the gospel but live it out by being the change that is so desperately needed in the world today.

Looking Forward

As the World Methodist Council moves forward from Gothenburg, the Aotearoa New Zealand council members, alongside their global whānau, will carry the energy, insights, and resolutions from the gathering into their work at home and abroad.

The Council’s work is not done; it is just beginning. As Methodists, we are reminded of our calling to seek justice, love, mercy, and walk humbly with God, responding faithfully to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In the words of one of the speakers, we are all urged “to be the change we wish to see”. As the World Methodist Council looks to the future, that call has never been more urgent.

May we, as part of the global Methodist family, continue to answer that call with courage, conviction, and compassion.