Eswatini Annual Conference 2022
By the Rev. Solomon J G Nxumalo, 18th District Field Representative
The 58th Session of the Eswatini Annual Conference sat at a time when the country faced political and weather challenges. Because of the political unrest in the country, the Bishop could not stay in the country but instead moved to South Africa. This condition necessitated the use of Zoom for the meeting.
The opening Worship Service started at 16:00 local time on 16 November 2023 at Labotsibeni African Methodist Episcopal Church, Manzini. The preacher of the Opening Service was the Reverend Zwelile R Thwala, pastor of Collins Tabernacle, Manzini, who preached a moving sermon on the subject of “God the Healer.” Immediately following the Benediction, the weather grew bad.
On Day 2, 17 November 2022, the Conference failed to start on time because of electricity interruptions due to heavy storms. However, the program finally continued. The first Business Session included the Call to Order, and the Organisation of the Conference. This included the election of the Finance Committee, the election of the Conference Trustees, the election of the Judiciary Committee, the appointment of the Ministerial Efficiency Committee, and the election of the GDC Representative. There was also to be a Presiding Elder Summary Report, the Board of Examiner’s Report, and the Pastor’s Annual reports.
After the Presiding Elder Summary Reports, the Board of Examiners presented four Candidates for Admission, one for Second Year Studies and three for ordination into the Elder’s Order.
The Conference Committees and Auxiliaries submitted their reports and recommendations in advance to the Bishop.
On Day 3, Saturday, November 18, 2023, there was still a power interruption, including Unfinished Business: Memorial Service, Retirement Service. The Retirement Service was held, and many wished her a good rest. Because the Bishop was not on-site, she decided that ordination was to be done at the Lesotho Annual Conference. The preacher of the Closing Worship Service was Bishop Francine A Brookins, who preached a moving sermon.
The disciplinary questions and the Commissioning Service were conducted.
The Conference adjourned, and Benediction was pronounced.
