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.

We are now stopping by the Andes and coastal cities of Peru, where the Iglesia Metodista del Perú faithfully proclaims the gospel and serves communities across diverse cultural and geographic landscapes.

Iglesia Metodista del Perú

The Methodist story in Peru is one of “Holistic Mission” — a beautiful blend of high-quality education and a fearless witness for social justice. Today, under the leadership of Bishop César Llanco Zavaleta, the IMP consists of approximately 32,000 members across 145 congregations, organized into seven diverse districts reaching from the coast of Lima to the high-altitude peaks of Cusco.

In Peru, Methodism is synonymous with excellence. The church manages some of the nation’s most prestigious schools, including Colegio América del Callao and Colegio María Alvarado. These are not just academic centers; they are mission outposts where thousands of young people are formed in Wesleyan values. Furthermore, the IMP has a long, prophetic history of standing with the marginalized, including a legacy of advocating for indigenous land rights that dates back over a century. Today, they continue this work through migrant support, community kitchens, and planting new churches.

WME has a wonderful history of collaboration with the Methodist Church of Peru and was honored to be able to hold an evangelism seminar in Lima in 2019.

A Prayer for Peru

Gracious God, we thank You for the Iglesia Metodista del Perú and for the ways Your Spirit is at work among them. Strengthen their leaders, encourage their congregations, and bless their ministries. May Your gospel take root deeply in every community they serve — from the mountains to the coast. Strengthen their hands as they serve the vulnerable and proclaim Your grace. Bring renewal, unity, and hope through their witness. Amen.

This week our prayer journey takes us to two very different regions of the globe — the vast Pacific islands of Fiji and the heart of South America in Paraguay — where Wesleyan Methodist communities are faithfully following Jesus and serving their neighbors.

Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma

The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma is the largest Christian denomination in the country, shaping the spiritual and cultural life of the nation. It grew out of the Wesleyan movement in Australia and became autonomous in 1964. The Church has held significant influence and is considered one of the three “pillars” of Fijian society, alongside the Vanua (traditional chiefly system) and the Matanitu (the state). With approximately 212,860 members worshiping in around 2,860 congregations served by 430 pastors, they have five main emphases: evangelism, education, economic development, ecological justice, and empowerment. 

Under the leadership of President Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou, the church is currently focused on “elevating the standard” of its service to the people. From managing over 50 schools to addressing critical social issues like drug abuse and domestic violence, the Methodist Church is woven into the very fabric of Fijian life. This year, they are celebrating 190 years of Methodism in the islands, moving forward with a vision to “move Christ’s Church to another level.”

WME has a wonderful history of collaboration with the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma. Most recently, we held an evangelism seminar in 2024 where over 1000 people gathered for in person training, and over 120,000 joined for the live stream.

Comunidad Evangélica Metodista del Paraguay (CEMP)

In South America, the Comunidad Evangélica Metodista del Paraguay represents a growing Methodist witness led by Bishop Eligio Genes Fernández. The Evangelical Methodist Church of Paraguay grew out of missionary work in the 1940’s, and the first Methodist worship gathering in Paraguay was held in 1988. Since then, the church as an autonomous body saw a significant new beginning in 1989 following the end of the national dictatorship. The church has grown into a community of roughly 1,025 baptized members, with a wider community reach of about 2,499 through ministries, congregations, and outreach efforts.

The CEMP focuses on holistic ministry that combines evangelism with other ministries such as education and health services. They are a “hands-on” church, known for their medical clinics and community kitchens (comedores) that serve children in the streets. Because a significant portion of the Church consists of youth and children, particularly young new believers, there is a strong emphasis on discipleship and leadership development. Like most Churches in our Wesleyan Methodist family, the CEMP follows the Wesleyan-Arminian theological tradition, emphasizing the authority of the Bible and a “holiness message” that focuses on the power of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life. Bishop Genes often speaks of the church’s current season as one of “re-learning” the doctrines of John Wesley — refocusing on the unique Methodist balance of personal piety and social action.

A Prayer

Gracious God, we thank You for the many congregations in Fiji and in Paraguay. Though they are separated by the vast Pacific, they are united by the same “warmed heart.” Bless their leaders with wisdom and discernment. Encourage their congregations as they follow Your call to serve and love. May Your Spirit continue to guide them in discipleship, outreach, and justice and may their witness continue to transform their nations from the inside out. Unite us across continents as one global Wesleyan family, rooted in grace and sent in mission. Amen.

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.

This week, our prayer journey takes us to the “middle of the world” as we highlight the Iglesia Evangélica Metodista Unida del Ecuador (IEMUE).

The Methodist presence in Ecuador is a story of perseverance and transformation. Founded in 1964 through the work of missionaries from the United States, the church has grown into a vibrant, autonomous body. Today, under the leadership of Bishop Silvio Cevallos, the IEMUE consists of approximately 1,500 members across 20 congregations, with its heart beating strongest in cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and the rural highland communities.

The IEMUE partners with other Methodist bodies such as the Free Methodist Church and focuses much of its work on education and rural mission work. They don’t just preach the Gospel; they live it out through an Integral Mission that focuses on the most vulnerable. Key pillars of their work include:

• Community Education: Providing resources and support for children in marginalized areas.
• Health and Nutrition: Leading projects that address child malnutrition and provide medical aid in rural Andean villages.
• Empowerment: Training lay leaders to be agents of change in their local neighborhoods.

In Ecuador, the Methodist Church is a “small but mighty” voice, advocating for the rights of indigenous people and working tirelessly to bring the “warmed heart” of Jesus to every corner of the nation. WME was honored to be able to hold an evangelism seminar at the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Quito, Ecuador in 2023 in partnership with the IEMUE and the Church of the Nazarene.

A Prayer for Ecuador

Gracious God, we thank You for the faithful witness of our brothers and sisters in Ecuador. We praise You for their commitment to the poor and their passion for Your Word. Bless their 20 congregations; may they be lighthouses of Your grace. Strengthen their hands for the work of mercy and open doors for the message of Your love to reach every heart. Bless Bishop Silvio Cevallos with wisdom and joy as he leads the church into a new season of growth. Be with the pastors and lay leaders serving in the highland communities, often navigating challenging terrain and limited resources —and may Your presence be felt in every family and every corner of Ecuador. Amen.

This week, our prayer journey takes us to two nations known for their natural beauty and their deep-seated faith: Costa Rica and Australia.

Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Costa Rica

The Iglesia Evangélica Metodista de Costa Rica is a cornerstone of the nation’s Protestant history. Founded in 1917 by missionaries who arrived on horseback from Panama, the church grew out of the work of Methodist missionaries from the United States and has been an autonomous church since 1973. Today, it is a vibrant community of 16,000 members across 103 congregations.

They are widely respected for their “holistic” approach to ministry. Beyond their local chapels, they operate the renowned Methodist School, a university, a seminary, and even a children’s home. In Costa Rica, being Methodist means caring for the mind, body, and spirit of the next generation. Their witness reflects the warmth, joy, and relational strength that characterize the Wesleyan tradition in Latin America.

World Methodist Evangelism has a wonderful history of partnership with the Methodist Church of Costa Rica. Our Regional Secretary, Bishop Fernando Palomo, leads this church, and in 2018 they graciously hosted Metanoia Global, our international young adult gathering — a powerful expression of global Wesleyan unity.

Wesleyan Methodist Church of Australia (WMCA)

While we previously highlighted the Chinese Methodist family in Australia, this week we focus on the Wesleyan Methodist Church of Australia (WMCA). This movement was officially formed in Melbourne in 1946 after a local leader, Kingsley Ridgway, met an American serviceman and felt a call to bring the Wesleyan holiness tradition to the Australian people.

The WMCA is an autonomous church that grew out of the Methodist Holiness movement and is connected to the larger Wesleyan Church. Today, under the leadership of National Superintendent Dr. Lex Akers, the WMCA consists of 2,452 members across 95 churches.

They are a deeply missional church, focusing heavily on church planting and raising up new leaders through Kingsley College to reach a modern, secular Australia with a simple, practical faith. Their vision is clear and compelling: that every disciple will make a disciple, and the church will multiply itself until the transforming presence of Jesus Christ impacts every community throughout Australia.

We are excited about the growing opportunities for collaboration between WME and the Wesleyan Methodist Church of Australia — and especially grateful that members of this church will be joining us in March for the United States gathering of the Order of the FLAME.

A Prayer

Father, we thank You for the diverse ways the Wesleyan flame burns. Whether in the mountains of Costa Rica or the cities of Australia, Your Word remains constant. Bless these two churches today. Strengthen their leaders, encourage their congregations, and bless their outreach. Pour out Your Spirit in fresh ways — bringing renewal, unity, and boldness in witness. Remind us that though we are oceans apart, we are one in Your love. May Your love be made known through them, and may Your Church flourish for Your glory. Amen.

As we continue praying for the worldwide Wesleyan Methodist family, this week we are turning our attention to the Iglesia Colombiana Metodista and giving thanks for their faithful witness in Colombia.

Iglesia Colombiana Metodista (ICM)

The Methodist Church in Columbia is a relatively young but deeply impactful member of our family. While Methodism in Colombia dates back several decades, the church has flourished in recent years, even amidst the country’s complex social and political history. Today, the ICM is a diverse community of approximately 2,000 members across 35 congregations, led by Bishop Luis Andrés Caicedo.

The ICM is known for its “Integral Mission.” They believe that the Gospel must be lived out in every area of society. This is reflected in their membership, which includes indigenous peoples, Afro-Colombians, campesinos (farmers), and those displaced by violence. For the ICM, “Social Holiness” isn’t a concept — it’s a survival strategy and a source of hope.

One of their most significant ministries is the IPS Cardona Rabb, a medical initiative that provides healthcare in vulnerable regions where doctors are scarce. They also lead the way in peace-building efforts, human rights advocacy, and supporting migrant families from neighboring countries, proving that a “small” church can have a massive, national impact.

Even though the church serves in a complex and often challenging context shaped by social inequality and economic pressures, Methodist congregations continue to proclaim the gospel, offering hope, stability, and the transforming love of Christ in local communities across the country.

How can we pray?

For Peace and Justice: Pray for the ICM’s ongoing work in peace-building and human rights. Ask God to protect their leaders as they speak truth to power and serve displaced communities.

For the Healthcare Ministry: Lift up the IPS Cardona Rabb clinics. Pray for the doctors and volunteers providing essential care in dangerous or remote areas.

For Spiritual Expansion: Pray for Bishop Luis Andrés and the national board as they seek “spiritual expansion” in 2026, reaching new territories with the message of God’s inclusive love.

A Prayer for Colombia

Faithful God, we thank You for the Iglesia Colombiana Metodista and for the ways You are at work through their ministries. Strengthen their pastors and church leaders as they shepherd congregations with wisdom, courage, and compassion. Encourage and strengthen their congregations as they serve communities seeking healing, peace, and renewal. May Your Spirit bring peace where there is division, hope where there is weariness, and new life through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Unite us as one global Wesleyan Methodist family, rooted in grace and sent in mission. Amen.

As we continue to pray for the worldwide Wesleyan Methodist family, this week our journey takes us to two very different, yet equally vibrant corners of the world: Chile and Australia, highlighting the Iglesia Metodista de Chile and the Chinese Methodist Church of Australia.

Praying for the Iglesia Metodista de Chile

Founded by missionaries from the United States, the Methodist Church in Chile became autonomous in 1969. Today, it consists of 9,882 members across 90 congregations. This church has a powerful legacy of “integral mission,” maintaining a strong focus on education, social justice, and service. Notably, a vibrant Pentecostal movement grew out of this Methodist witness beginning in 1909, and it continues to shape the spiritual landscape of the country today. In times of social and political change, Methodist congregations in Chile remain committed to sharing the gospel through compassionate and courageous ministry.

Interceding for the Chinese Methodist Church of Australia (CMCA)

Across the ocean, the Chinese Methodist Church of Australia (CMCA) is a beautiful example of a “missionary church.” It grew out of the dedicated work of Methodists from Singapore and Malaysia who established the first congregation in 1986. Today, the CMCA has 1,482 members in 26 congregations, featuring mainly Mandarin-speaking services alongside several English-speaking ones. We are especially grateful for our close ties here as we partner with two dedicated leaders from this church: our Regional Secretary, Bishop James Kwang, and Board member, Dr. Rob Lim.

A Prayer

Gracious God, we thank You for the diverse ways Your Spirit moves – from the Pentecostal fires in Chile to the missionary heart of the Chinese Methodist Church in Australia. Bless their leaders, strengthen their congregations, and deepen their witness. May Your Spirit continue to guide them as they serve their communities and proclaim the gospel. May they continue to be bold witnesses of Your grace and love. Amen.

This week, our prayer journey takes us to the largest country in South America as we highlight the Igreja Metodista no Brasil (Methodist Church in Brazil).

Praying for the Igreja Metodista no Brasil

The Methodist presence in Brazil dates back to 1867. Today, it is a vibrant, autonomous church consisting of over 262,424 members across more than 1,101 congregations. At World Methodist Evangelism, we are especially grateful for our partnership with the Brazilian church, as three members of our own WME team – Paulo and Juliana Lopes and Ábner Steffen are members of this denomination.

The Brazilian church is a model of “connectionalism,” organized into eight missionary and ecclesiastical regions that cover everything from the bustling streets of São Paulo to the remote communities of the Amazon basin.

The Brazilian Methodist Church is guided by a powerful document called the “Plan for Life and Mission.” This plan emphasizes that the church does not exist for itself, but for the mission of God in the world. This is seen clearly in their massive commitment to education and social work. They manage several universities and dozens of “Social Centers” that provide vocational training, daycare, and food security to the urban poor.

In Brazil, being Methodist means being “missionary.” Their slogan, “Every Methodist a missionary,” reflects their aggressive church-planting strategies and their heart for evangelism. Whether through high-tech media ministries or small community groups, they are constantly looking for ways to share the “warmed heart” of Jesus with their neighbors.

For the “Missionary Regions”: Pray for the bishops and pastors leading in the newer missionary regions, especially in the North and West where resources are fewer but the spiritual harvest is great.

For Social Centers: Pray for the staff and volunteers in the Methodist Social Centers who serve thousands of vulnerable children and families every day.

For National Unity: Ask God to strengthen the unity of the church as they navigate a complex political and social landscape, that they may remain a bold witness for peace and grace.

A Prayer for Brazil

Father, we thank You for the passion and missionary fire of our family in Brazil. We praise You for their “Plan for Life and Mission” and their dedication to serving the poor and the student. Bless their congregations; may each one be a lighthouse of hope. Empower every member to live out their calling as a missionary in their own community. Let Your Spirit move mightily from the coastlines to the rainforest. Amen.

This week, our journey through the global Wesleyan family brings us to the high Altiplano and the vibrant valleys of Bolivia.

Praying for the Evangélica Metodista en Bolivia (IEMB)

The Iglesia Evangélica Metodista en Bolivia (IEMB) consists of 9,190 members worshiping in 194 congregations. While it was founded by American missionaries in 1906, it underwent a radical transformation in 1969 to become an autonomous, indigenous-led church. Today, it is a church that looks and sounds like its nation, with a majority of its members coming from the Aymara and Quechua peoples.

The IEMB is a powerhouse of social action. They believe that spiritual salvation and physical well-being go hand-in-hand. In 2006, the Bolivian government recognized this by awarding the church the “Order of the Condor” – the nation’s highest honor – for their century of service to the poor.
Through a formal agreement with the government, the church manages 16 educational centers and numerous rural clinics. They are a lifeline for communities that are often overlooked, focusing on primary education, vocational training, and public health. For the IEMB, the Wesleyan fire is seen in the work of literacy and healing.

Indigenous leaders took the helm of the IEMB decades ago, ensuring the Gospel spoke directly to their identity and struggle for justice. The church remains a prophetic voice, particularly in the city of El Alto, one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. As people migrate from rural villages to the city, they carry their Methodist faith with them, often requesting the IEMB to plant new chapels to anchor their new urban communities.

How can we pray?

The IEMB motto is “Inspired by God to RESTORE the Church.”

For Indigenous Leadership: Pray for the Aymara, Quechua, and Guaraní leaders. Ask God for wisdom as they navigate the balance between traditional cultural identity and Christian discipleship.

For Health and Education: Pray for the teachers and doctors in Methodist-run schools and clinics. Ask God to provide resources and protection as they serve in remote, high-altitude regions.

For Rural Growth: Ask God to strengthen the 276 congregations, especially those in isolated areas where pastors travel long distances to reach their flocks.

A Prayer

Father, we thank You for the vibrant colors and resilient spirit of the Methodist church in Bolivia. We praise You for how You have raised up indigenous leaders to guide Your people. We ask for Your blessing on their schools and clinics – may they be places of healing and light. Strengthen their hands as they work for justice and restoration. Let the warmth of Your Spirit be felt in every village from the Andes to the Amazon. Amen.