Board of the Africa Region of the UEM meets in Botswana

Currently, the board of the Africa Region of the UEM is meeting in Gaborone, Botswana; © Photo: UEM

Volker Martin Dally gave the sermon in the cathedral in Gaborone. © Photo: UEM

After two years of only being able to meet online, the regional board is finally meeting in person again: With a service in the crowded cathedral of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana (ELCB), the meeting of the 7-member board from six countries was ceremoniously opened on Sunday in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. UEM General Secretary Volker Martin Dally delivered the opening sermon. In his sermon, he emphasized that "the members of the UEM, who come from different countries, are committed to meeting people in need and working in different places as a worldwide team to bring hope to the vulnerable." During the service, a song was sung together in Rwandan: "Munezero muri Yesu" ("Happiness in Jesus").

Africa Regional Board Chair Mothusi J. Letlhage, ELCB bishop, opened Monday morning's meeting. The role of the Regional Board is that of a liaison between the Africa Division, led by the Rev. Dr John Wesley Kabango, and the Africa Regional Assembly. The Africa Regional Assembly is a regional gathering of all members in Africa; it usually meets shortly after the UEM General Assembly every three years. It serves to help the members of the regions grow together and live together.

Dr Albrecht Philipps, the new head of the ecumenical department of the Evangelical Church of Westphalia, will also attend as a guest to get to know the UEM better. The meeting will last until Wednesday, February 10.