Three United Methodists were killed in escalating violence in Nigeria between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. The deaths include a lay leader and two toddlers, who perished in a hut fire during the conflict. Church leaders have condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for peace and justice in the affected community amid growing tensions.
In rural Nigeria, violence has escalated between members of the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals: Elisha Masoyi, a 27-year-old United Methodist, and two toddlers, Abednego, aged four, and Baby, aged two. The children perished in a fire ignited during the destruction of huts, which occurred following a confrontation between the two denominations in the village of Munga Dosso, Taraba State.
United Methodist bishops have denounced the violence and extended their support to the affected community, urging members of both churches to embrace peace amidst ongoing conflict. Bishop John Pena Auta of the Global Methodist Church has echoed this message, emphasizing the importance of community cohesion during these tumultuous times.
The violence was precipitated by a gathering of Global Methodist Church members at Bwoi United Methodist Church, occurring despite government-imposed closures on both congregations aimed at mitigating conflict. The attack led to the injury of ten other church members, who are currently recuperating at home.
Bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria Lead Bishop John Schol issued formal statements expressing outrage over the violence and advocating for justice regarding those responsible. They urged both sets of church members to refrain from spreading misinformation and called for immediate police intervention in case of violence.
Both bishops also highlighted worsening tensions, noting that concerns about the Global Methodist Church’s future stem from the United Methodist Church’s growing stability in Nigeria. Bishop Schol indicated that many clergy and congregation members remained committed to the United Methodist denomination, despite resignations among a minority who joined the Global Methodist Church.
A lawsuit has been filed by the United Methodist Church against the Global Methodist Church regarding ownership rights to church property, with findings suggesting that legal precedents favor the United Methodist Church. It’s important to note the West Africa Central Conference has reaffirmed traditional marriage definitions, reflecting the church’s stance against LGBTQ initiatives.
In light of the tragic events, the United Methodist Church Council of Bishops has called for peace and compassion, offering condolences to the victims’ families. They emphasized that violence is not a solution to conflict and encouraged all members to behave in a manner that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The local leadership, including the Rev. Eli S. Yakku, emphasized the necessity for prayers and counseling to foster community healing, while also promoting accountability for the violence. The destruction left many families displaced, further fracturing the community.
Finally, Bishop Auta of the Global Methodist Church urged local leaders to promote reconciliation and sustainable peace, indicating that the crisis’s escalation was instigated by an undisclosed party aiming to incite unrest. This message underscored a collective aspiration for a harmonious community moving forward.
The recent violence in Nigeria between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and significant community disruption. Church leaders from both sides have condemned the attacks, calling for peace and justice. As tensions grow, there is a critical need for healing within the community and proactive measures to prevent further violence. Leaders continue to advocate for a return to dialogue and mutual respect to ensure stability in the region.
Original Source: www.umnews.org
