AME GC Business Session 6

Business Session 6

Rev Sebego Zephaniah Moremi, Contributing Writer

The 52nd Session of the General Conference continued with great momentum during Business Session 6, under the capable leadership of Bishop Reginald T Jackson. The session opened with comprehensive reports from the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) and key educational institutions, reflecting the ongoing commitment to service and academic excellence within the church. A major highlight of the morning was the announcement concerning the resurgence and restoration of Morris Brown College. 

After much anticipation, it was revealed that the college has now achieved full accreditation. This milestone is not just a testimony to the institution’s dedication to providing quality education, but also marks the beginning of a new chapter as its doors are officially open to students. The progress of Morris Brown College was met with applause, signalling the church’s continuous investment in education as a vital part of its mission. The tone of the session shifted when the floor was opened to the resolution proposed by the Global Development Council 2024 regarding the covenant. The resolution was initially brought to the floor by Bro. Herbert Mngadi from the 19th Episcopal District. His motion was further pressed forward by Presiding Elder Betty Schroder from the 15th Episcopal District, who passionately appealed for the resolution to be discussed. Bro. Lesego Mokone also voiced his support, appealing to the chair that the discussion should proceed without the need for the church attorney’s input, signalling a desire for a more direct and immediate debate. The discussion saw significant contributions from several bishops, including Bishop Brailsford, Bishop Leath, Bishop Bryant, and Bishop McKenzie, who provided valuable input and background on the covenant. Bishop Wicker also weighed in, further enriching the discussion with his insights. The engagement of these church leaders underscored the gravity of the issue and the deep consideration it warranted

The resolution introduced a pivotal issue, sparking passionate and in-depth discussions among the delegates. Advocates for and against the resolution pressed their cases with conviction, emphasizing the significance of the covenant to the church’s global community. 

In the end, the General Conference made a decisive move, voting to remove the covenant. This outcome reflected the delegates’ commitment to preserving the unity and integrity of the church while navigating complex global challenges. The decision to remove the covenant underscored the importance of thoughtful and collective discernment in guiding the church forward. 

As Business Session 6 concluded, it was clear that the General Conference is not only a platform for reporting progress but also a crucial space for addressing and resolving the significant issues facing the church today. The session’s outcomes, from the accreditation of Morris Brown College to the removal of the contentious covenant, demonstrated the church’s ongoing dedication to its mission and to the global community it serves.