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Council of Bishops seek prayer following violence in Nigeria aimed at UMC
December 17, 2024 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The Council of Bishops released the following statement on Monday, December 16, 2024 in response to violence in Nigeria targeting the Bwoi United Methodist Church. Click here to download a PDF of the statement.
To the people of the United Methodist Church:
Grace and Peace from Jesus Christ, God's only begotten, our savior and Prince of Peace.
In this season of Advent, The Council of Bishops calls all United Methodists to pray after the Bwoi United Methodist Church in Bunkabu, Nigeria, was attacked in its building. Three United Methodists were killed; a 28-year-old by gunfire and two young children when a fire was set to their home.
The Council of Bishops offers its condolences to the families whose loved ones died and to the members of the congregation where the incident took place. We condemn the violence and plead with all United Methodists to bear witness to the prince of peace, Jesus Christ in word and deed. We know that violence never resolves conflict or meaningfully addresses injustice.
The Council of Bishops is grateful for the leadership in Nigeria who responded quickly to maintain order, care for the grieving, and are working toward the mission of The United Methodist Church. As we near the manger of Bethlehem once again, may we hear as never before the choir of angels declaring: "Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among people with whom God is pleased."
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President - Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church