Iglesia Metodista en el Uruguay & The Methodist Church of New Zealand

This week, we travel from the “Southern Cone” of South America to the islands of the South Pacific to highlight Uruguay and New Zealand.

Iglesia Metodista en el Uruguay (IMU)

The Methodist story in Uruguay is one of historic pioneering. In 1969, the IMU became the first Methodist church in Latin America to become autonomous. Today, under the leadership of President Raul Sosa, the church consists of approximately 1,000 members across 20 congregations.

In a nation often cited as the most secular in Latin America, the IMU is a courageous witness. They are widely respected for their “Integral Mission,” particularly through the Instituto Crandon, one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. The church is a strong voice for human rights, environmental stewardship, and social justice, proving that even a small flock can be “leaven” for an entire nation.

The Methodist Church of New Zealand (Te Hāhi Weteriana o Aotearoa)

Across the ocean, the Methodist Church of New Zealand is a diverse and multicultural church shaped by both Māori and Pākehā (European) traditions, as well as Pacific and immigrant communities. Officially established in 1822, it is now led by President Rev. Peter Taylor and Vice President TeRito Peyroux-Semu. The church consists of approximately 12,000 members across 150 congregations.

The church is unique in its commitment to being a “Bicultural Church.” It operates under a “Bicultural Treaty” that honors the partnership between the Tangata Whenua (the indigenous Māori people) and Tauiwi (all other peoples). This commitment to reconciliation and justice is central to their identity, as they seek to be a “prophetic, inclusive, and compassionate” presence in a modern, diverse society.

World Methodist Evangelism was honored to have the Methodist Church of New Zealand join us in 2017 for our evangelism seminary hosted by the Wesleyan Methodist Church in New Zealand. Young adults from this Church also joined us in 2018 for Metanoia Global in Costa Rica.

A Prayer for Uruguay and New Zealand

Gracious God, we thank You for our brothers and sisters in Uruguay and New Zealand, for the pioneering spirit of the church in Uruguay and the reconciling heart of the church in New Zealand. In places where faith can feel fragile, strengthen their congregations to be bold witnesses of Your grace in secular and diverse cultures. May their witness be marked by love, justice, and hope. And remind us again that though we are scattered across the world, we are one in Christ. Your Spirit knows no borders and Your love speaks every language. Amen.