The Africa College of Bishops of the United Methodist Church has reaffirmed its stance on marriage as a covenant between one man and one woman, while also pledging to defend church properties across the continent as sacred assets for ministry.
Meeting in Luanda, Angola, from September 1 to 4, 2025, the bishops issued a wide-ranging statement addressing matters of faith, governance, unity, and mission. However, their declarations on marriage and property stood out as defining themes of the gathering.
In their statement, the bishops strongly upheld what they described as the “long-standing theological and cultural understanding” of marriage. Citing Genesis 2:24 and Matthew 19:5, they emphasized that marriage remains a sacred covenant between one man and one woman.
“This view is consistent with our biblical convictions, African traditions, and the laws of our respective nations,” the bishops declared.
They further committed to teaching and practicing what they termed a “holistic Christian sexual ethic rooted in Scripture and discipleship.”
The statement comes as The United Methodist Church globally continues to wrestle with differing perspectives on marriage and human sexuality. For African leaders, the reaffirmation signals not only a theological conviction but also an alignment with cultural and legal frameworks within their nations.
The bishops also placed strong emphasis on safeguarding church property, describing it as a matter of stewardship and continuity of mission. They applauded a recent court ruling in Liberia that upheld The United Methodist Church’s rightful ownership of its properties.
“We resolve to preserve, protect, and defend United Methodist Church properties across the continent as sacred trust resources for our mission,” the bishops stated.
They emphasized that protecting church assets is crucial for advancing evangelism, education, healthcare, and community development, areas where The United Methodist Church plays a vital role in African society.
While Counts 4 and 9 carried the sharpest weight, the bishops also reflected on the church’s rapid growth in Africa, the need for structural clarity in West Africa, and their commitment to regionalization as a pathway to maintaining unity while respecting cultural diversity.
They condemned the ongoing violence in parts of Africa, pledged support for theological education, and encouraged sustainable practices to strengthen the church’s self-reliance.
The gathering concluded with words of gratitude to Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço and his government for hosting the bishops and providing a peaceful environment for deliberations.
Looking ahead, the bishops pledged to continue leading with humility and courage, declaring:
“As Africa rises, so too does our responsibility to be a light to the nations.”
