Synod staff and members of the MNO Synod Global Mission Committee participated in The Sudan Mission Centennial—the celebration of 100 years of Lutheran ministry and presence in what is now Cameroon and Central African Republic (CAR). The event was hosted by the Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America (ELCA) Global Mission in Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN, July 8–9.
Over 125 people representing various groups who have history and connection with Cameroon and CAR came together at Luther Seminary (St. Paul, MN) for a weekend of learning, listening and worship.
The bishop of the church in Cameroon, Église Évangélique Luthérienne du Cameroun (EELC), and the president of the church in Central African Republic, Synod Eglise Evangélique Luthérienne de la République Centrafricain (ELC-CAR), were present via technology.
Centred around the themes of faithful presence and partnership in the past, present and future, the event included learning about the history of the work in Cameroon and CAR as well as hearing about the realities of the church today—which is fully led by local leaders.
Bishop Jean Baguele, EELC, shared that faith today is lived in community. He emphasized the role of relationships and the need for the church to continue to articulate a vision that speaks to the realities that are going on in the country today.
President Joseph Ngoe, ELC-CAR, reflected on the connection between the church and society and the way that economy, religious and social life is impacted by political realities.
Both the church leaders articulated a firm commitment to the ongoing need for the church to be present and visible as a witness to the gospel.
Bishop Jason facilitated a panel conversation with other bishops about the hope for the future of these partnerships, focusing on the mutual sharing between churches and learning from one another about discipleship, evangelism, leadership development and stewardship of resources.
Bishop Jason Zinko, Bishop Craig Schweitzer (Western North Dakota Synod), Bishop Constanze Hagmeier (South Dakota Synod), Bishop Jean Baguele (EELC) and President Joseph Ngoe (ELC-CAR) reflected on the future of global partnership and accompaniment.
It was a special treat to reconnect with ELCA global personnel, Willie and Anne Langdji, and give thanks for their partnership and support, as well as meet others who have lived and worked in Cameroon and CAR.
The celebration culminated with Sunday worship at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, the location of the first offices for the Sudan Mission and the sending congregation for the first Lutheran pastors.
ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton preached and visiting bishops participated as communion servers, including Bishop Jason and Bishop Tessa Leiseth (Eastern North Dakota Synod).
Our synod has a long-standing relationship with the National Lutheran Church in Cameroon. The formal relationship has been in place since 2003, when MNO Synod Bishop Richard Smith and EELC President Thomas Niewye met while at the Lutheran World Federation Assembly in Winnipeg.
Our synod partners with the EELC in supporting the Kids in Cameroon program and in expanding opportunities for women in leadership.
—Deacon Michelle Collins
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