Western PA Leaders Endorse Zimbabwe Partnership
By Jackie Campbell
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6/1/2009
The Conference Connectional Network voted May 18 to support our denomination's Global Health Initiative by forming a partnership with the UMC in Zimbabwe. The vote came after the Conference Global Ministries Team and the CCN met with representatives of the General Board of Global Ministries.
The CCN earlier submitted legislation to the annual conference to establish a partnership with an African conference or country “to be named.” Annual Conference members will vote on the partnership roposal during the 2009 session June 11-14 at Grove City College.
The Rev. Morais Quissico, who heads the Africa Office at the General Board of Global Ministries, and the Rev. Gary Henderson, staff executive for the Global Health Initiative, both emphasized that while the partnership initially will focus on eradicating killer diseases and improving health in Zimbabwe, the African United Methodists will reciprocate by sharing their passionate spirituality and commitment to evangelism and church growth.
“It’s about mutual respect and admiration,” said Quissico. The need is great, he added. As in many places, he said, “Politicians are responsible for a lot of the mess, and because of the politicians, people say we won’t do anything to help. But God says No! These are my people too!”
Zimbabwe was recommended because of the need, the existing ties between the Nyadire UM Mission and The Nyadire Connection in Western PA, and a long-standing relationship with UM-related Africa University in Mutare.