Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, resident bishop of the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church, released this statement regarding the death of Bishop John K. Yambasu:
Bishop Holston
Friends, I am saddened by news of the death of Bishop John Yambasu, resident bishop of the Sierra Leone Area of The United Methodist Church in West Africa. On behalf of the clergy and laity across South Carolina, I offer deepest condolences to our United Methodist sisters and brothers in Sierra Leone during this time of grief.
Bishop Yambasu was a faithful, calm and consistent voice of hope. His life was a testament to the world-changing difference that is possible through the building of relationships with those who might think differently. He was always willing to listen, to learn, to offer challenges and to consider innovative solutions for complex issues.
As president of the Africa College of Bishops, Bishop Yambasu had a gift for teaching those of us from different cultures about the unique and important ways United Methodists in Africa meet the needs of their communities in ministry and mission for the sake of Christ.
Bishop Yambasu
It has been my honor and privilege to serve alongside Bishop Yambasu on the Council of Bishops and its Executive Committee, and the boards of directors of the General Board of Global Ministries and the United Methodist Committee on Relief.
Bishop Yambasu also was recently elected as chancellor of Africa University, which has shared a special relationship with South Carolina United Methodists dating back to the first major launch gift to Africa University in 1991.
I can think of no better way to honor Bishop Yambasu’s legacy of service and love than to continue our mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. With renewed vigor, let us strive in all that we do and in all that we say to reflect God’s love and grace into the world.
Please join Felecia and me in prayer for his spouse, Millicent, their five children, and fellow United Methodists in Sierra Leone, throughout Africa, and across the world.
Grace and peace,
L. Jonathan Holston
Resident Bishop
