Mission commitments met despite challenges

August 18, 2022

Lott Carey international programs continue apace despite the adverse impact of the global Covid-19 pandemic that caused widespread disruptions and dislocations.

Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn reported to the 125^th Annual Session in New Orleans that projects, programs and emergency relief were carried out in roughly one dozen countries.

This includes disaster relief assistance in Haiti, South Africa, Ukraine, and the United States; support to more than 12,000 students in India, Liberia, Nigeria, and Guyana; free medical care for leprosy patients in India; and HIV/AIDS education, prevention, care, and support in Ethiopia.

More than $1.1 million were given in mission support and approximately 60,000 meals were packaged through the Kids Against Hunger initiative.

Rev. Dunn hopes the ministry and mission of Lott Carey will “inspire you to remain engaged as together we embrace all that God is calling us to be and do.”

The 125^th Annual Session comes at a difficult time for the global mission agency. “The last two-plus years have been challenging for us here in the United States and worldwide,” Rev. Dunn told the roughly 700 face-to-face and virtual participants.

“Notwithstanding, we took the initiative to maintain our commitments to all our partners, including responding to needs brought on by Covid-19.”

There was indeed much to celebrate. The 125^th Annual Session is the first to be presided over by the first female president, Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart, and it is the first hybrid Annual Session ever held.

It also happens when the organization marks the 200^th anniversary of the arrival of the Rev. Lott Carey on the African continent. A pilgrimage to West Africa is planned later in the year to celebrate and commemorate the milestone.

The Annual Session incorporates Bible Study, worship, mission education classes, mission service opportunities, and presentations on issues of concern such as human trafficking, voting rights and social justice. There are special events for children and youth, among other activities and programs.