Iglesia Evangelica Metodista de Panama & Uniting Church in Australia

This week, our global prayer journey takes us to two nations defined by their coastlines and their deep commitment to “faith in action”: Panama and Australia.

Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Panamá (IEMP)

Methodist work in Panama was initiated by a laywoman “Madre Abel” between 1811 and 1821; however, the Church was officially established in 1906 through the work of missionaries from the United States. The Evangelical Methodist Church in Panama became autonomous in the early 1970’s. Today it is a small but faithful community of approximately 2,000 members across 18 congregations, carrying forward a Wesleyan commitment to discipleship, youth outreach, and service in both urban and rural areas. Although its size is modest, its impact is evident in youth ministries, educational initiatives, and its pastoral care for families throughout Panama.

The IEMP is perhaps most famous for the Instituto Panamericano (IPA), one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. Under the current leadership of Bishop Pedro Araúz Valdés, the church continues to emphasize that the Gospel must be lived out in the classroom, the clinic, and the community. As we pray for their congregations this week, we celebrate their dedication to raising a generation of leaders grounded in Christian values.

Uniting Church in Australia (UCA)

Across the Pacific, we highlight the Uniting Church in Australia. Formed in 1977 through the union of the Congregational Union in Australia, the Methodist Church of Australasia, and the Presbyterian Church of Australia, the UCA is a uniquely Australian expression of the “Global Parish.” It is currently led by Rev. Charissa Suli, the youngest person and first person of color to serve as President of the Assembly, and includes more than 670,000 people in roughly 1,800 congregations and faith communities who worship in 45 languages.

The UCA is a “pilgrim people,” deeply committed to social justice, reconciliation with First Nations peoples, and multicultural ministry. With a presence in almost every local community in Australia, they are a powerful voice for the marginalized, operating one of the largest networks of community services in the country through UnitingCare.

A Prayer

Gracious God, we thank You for the spirit of unity and service that defines our family in Panama and Australia. From the canal to the outback, Your grace is at work. Bless their leaders with wisdom and their members with a renewed passion for the Gospel. We lift up Bishop Pedro Araúz Valdés and the teachers at the Instituto Panamericano as they begin their 2026 school year. Bless their rural missions and church planting efforts. We also lift up President Charissa Suli and the 17th Assembly. Strengthen their multicultural fellowships and their bold witness for justice and environmental stewardship. May their light continue to shine brightly, bringing hope and healing to their nations. Amen.