General Superintendents Letter
21 August 2020
Dear Pastors and Leaders,
We find ourselves in August and still facing the COVID-19 virus. Many of us had hoped that this season would have come to an end by now and that life could get back to some form of “normal.” While that may not be the case, we are encouraged by the work that the church is doing around the globe.
Many of our colleges and universities are working valiantly to continue their programs, either in person or virtually. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the creativity and flexibility that has been seen by all of the faculty and staff of our schools. We currently have 51 International Board of Education (IBOE) institutions serving over 50,000 students from 120 world areas. May God’s hand of protection be upon our leaders and our students as they prepare for work and ministry around the globe.
Our district superintendents have learned new ways in which to lead during this time. Zoom gatherings and other virtual meetings have provided encouragement, guidance, and education. Many pastors have mentioned that they feel more connected to the district now than they may have in the past. Churches are finding ways to help and support one another.
This crisis has revealed areas of vulnerability both for local churches and for church systems and structures. Leadership teams have worked hard to identify these areas and worked strategically to make the changes needed for long-term sustainability.
Throughout this time, pastors have continued to minister to the sick and needy. Local churches have explored new avenues of ministry, reaching those with the greatest needs. Pastors have become experts at using technology, and our laity continue to be generous in giving.
The church in South America has been hit very hard with this tragedy and currently, 10% of the district superintendents on the region have been infected. Please, continue to lift them in prayer.
We join with the words of the Apostle Paul, ”So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest-time if we do not give up” (Gal. 6:9). This week, you may be tired. We are all living in a new reality, but we must not give up doing good. God has raised us to be His people in this season. Let us remember that every challenge we face is an opportunity for ministry.
Grace and Peace,
Board of General Superintendents
Filimão M. Chambo, Eugénio R. Duarte, David W. Graves, David A. Busic, Gustavo A. Crocker, Carla D. Sunberg
Published: 08/26/2020
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