The Burundi Annual Conference convened July 17-20 at the Nyabugogo Parish in Gitega Province. Bishop Daniel Wandabula convened the conference, themed “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10 NIV). Delegates and distinguished guests came from various countries including Rwanda, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Kenya and Zimbabwe.
After a welcoming message, the Rev. Emmanuel Sinzohagera, legal representative and dean of superintendents, provided an update on the life and future of the church in Burundi. He encouraged delegates to stand in unity to strengthen the church’s ministry.
Wandabula officially opened the seventh annual conference session, reflecting on past conflicts within the church and urging delegates to focus on reconciliation and hard work. On the main outcomes of the 2020 postponed General Conference, he addressed issues related to the new regionalization legislation and the amendments made to the Book of Discipline regarding removal of harmful language. He said regionalization would bring more power and freedom to ensure ministries engage people in their unique settings and culture.
The bishop also celebrated a significant milestone for the conference, recognizing its elevation to an episcopal area. He underscored the broader implications of this achievement for the church’s mission and growth in the region.
“Your elevation to an episcopal area,” he said, “is a testament to your dedication, faith and hard work. Let us remember the strength and reassurance that comes from our faith, especially in times of uncertainty and challenge.”
The Rev. Solomon Rogers of the Sierra Leone Annual Conference discussed the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative. He encouraged the Burundi-based United Methodist Development Agency to collaborate with this agricultural and animal husbandry project for the development of the Burundi Annual Conference and the communities it serves.
The Rev. Kennedy Mwita’s talk on regionalization within The United Methodist Church captured delegates’ attention, particularly the policies ensuring that practices align with national laws and the Discipline.
“Through regionalization,” Mwita said, “we celebrate our unity as United Methodists, while respecting our cultural diversity. This path allows us to stay true to our shared mission, ensuring that we continue to be one church, globally united in faith and purpose. Staying UMC means embracing our common beliefs and working together to transform the world, no matter where we are.”
Priscilla Muzerengwa, global communication technology field project manager at United Methodist Communications, highlighted the crucial role of communication within The United Methodist Church. She emphasized that effective communication fosters peace, faithfulness and strong relationships and stressed the need for accurate and considerate messaging.
“Effective communication is the lifeblood of church ministry,” she said, “enabling members to build trust, foster community and ensure that every member and partner is aligned with the church’s mission.”
Sinzohagera offered a presentation on financial accountability. He focused on transparency, stewardship, ethical management, mechanisms, annual audits, financial reports and budget-approval processes. He replaced Dennis Sandy, treasurer/missionary for the East Africa Episcopal Area, who could not attend because of visa issues.
Leading nominations for episcopacy candidates were Sinzohagera, with 576 votes, and the Rev. Lazare Bankurunaze, with 202 votes. The annual conference budget for the upcoming year was set at 2,537,706,372 BIF ($888,197 USD), a significant increase from last year’s 754,638,658 BIF ($264,124 USD). Delegates approved adoption of a farming project focused on agriculture and animal husbandry through the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative. They also resolved to recruit the three remaining coordinators for the United Methodist Development Agency. Delegates appointed a radio project board of seven members, with Leonidas Sabushimike as chair.
The conference reported positive trends in membership and attendance. Membership (baptized and professed members of The United Methodist Church) stands at 200,263, up from 193,817 in 2023. Worship attendance rose from 259,863 to 266,309. Sunday school attendance rose from 44,816 to 46,986. New-member professions of faith were 6,446, up significantly from 3,669. Baptisms numbered 9,582, an increase of 3,143 from last year’s 6,439.
The conference acknowledged the retirement of 14 clergy members and approved no new initiatives or redistricting plans. No church closures or departures were reported, nor were any disaffiliation policies adopted.
— The Rev. Ladislas Niyiragira, director of communications for the Burundi Conference.