African Evangelicals hear call to take responsibility for continent and global mission

The Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA) has successfully concluded its 10th General Assembly at the Jumuia Resort in Kanami, Mombasa.

The meeting last week brought together over 130 Evangelical leaders from across the African continent to critically assess Christian witness in Africa today.

Meeting under the banner of ‘Redeeming the Time’, delegates were challenged to be a relevant voice in Africa and faithfully represent Christ in all areas of society.

Nigerian pastor Gbile Akanni said the time had come for Africans to wake up and take responsibility for their nations and continent - and just as importantly, for global mission. “God has appointed a moment for Africa and this is it!” he said.

Calisto Odede, Associate Pastor of Nairobi Pentecostal Church, Kenya, stressed the pre-eminence of Christ in the universe, the Church and in the lives of individuals.

He challenged all believers to remember that they carry Christ with them wherever they go.

Odede said: “We desperately need humble, intelligent, transformed leaders of character, prepared to pay a heavy cost and whose strength comes from their relationship with Jesus.”

Gordon Showell Rogers, Associate Secretary General of the World Evangelical Alliance, echoed this call for leaders of character as he lamented the decades of war and conflict that have afflicted the African continent and caused the deaths of around 10 million Africans.

He said: “At this Assembly, we have heard again and again the responsibility of Christians to shape Africa. The practical application of the call of Christ into many different areas of life was heart-warming and carries huge potential. This is an exciting new day for the AEA.”

During the Assembly, the AEA received the newly formed Evangelical Alliance of Madagascar into full membership. It was also the first Assembly to take place with the AEA’s new General Secretary, Aiah Foday-Khabenje, at the helm.

He takes over leadership of the AEA at a critical time for the organisation and admits that he has a “tough task” ahead of him as he seeks to rebuild and refocus the AEA’s work under a new Strategic Plan.

He remained optimistic, however, about the future of the AEA and the prospects for the development of Church and society across Africa.

He said: “Imagine the impact of 80 million African evangelicals taking personal and corporate responsibility in relationships, in evangelism and mission, in politics, in climate challenges and the myriad issues the church has a responsibility to speak into.”