A CONGRESS TO REMEMBER

More than 2,600 participants from 82 countries and territories attended the 21st

Baptist World Congress in Durban, South Arica, from July 22-26. Several hundred

other South African participants also attended using day passes. It was the first congress in Africa since the meetings, normally held every five years, began in London, England, in 1905. The occasion, with the theme of “Jesus Christ, the Door,” was

marked by worship enriched by inspirational sermons, absorbing Bible studies, vibrant singing and warm fellowship. Focus groups enabled participants to discuss theological, ecclesial, missional and justice concerns that affect the lives of Baptist Christians. Four BWA member organizations, the Baptist Association of

South Africa, the Baptist Convention of South Africa, the Baptist Mission of South Africa and the Baptist Union of Southern Africa, played host. The congress marked the

changing of the guard for the next five-year period, from

You have not only confronted the evils of racism but have built a community of hope for all where all can dream of possibilities and adventures.” Expectations were high as participants arrived in South

2015-2020. While BWA General Secretary Neville Callam and Treasurer Carolyn Fossen will continue in their present roles, Paul Msiza succeeded John Upton as president. Twelve vice presidents, two from each of the six BWA regions – Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Latin America and North America – were elected.

At a luncheon held during the congress, Callam paid special

tribute to John Upton, to whom a plaque was presented, for his astute and faithful handling of the office of BWA president over the previous five years. Upton was installed during the 20th

congress

in Hawaii in July 2010. On the eve of the congress, on July 21, the city of Durban held a special welcome event. James Nxumalo, mayor of Durban, extended welcome to the BWA and all South African and international participants. He extended the wishes of ubuntu, “I am, because of you,” which he said, “reflect our humanity to mankind.” Noting that it is the first congress in Africa, Nxumalo said “we celebrate with all of Africa this wonderful occasion.” Logie Naidoo, speaker of eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which includes the city of Durban, brought greetings as well. In his response, Upton, alluding to the historic struggles in

the country, declared that “South Africa is a land of courageous dreams” where the people “are among the bravest in the world.

After the congress, a number of

persons reflected on the time they had. South African Terry Rae, a BWA vice president from 2005-2010, said “it was a joy to experience the congress, my fourth congress, and although it was not the biggest in numbers that I attended, it was the best in terms of cultural diversity and joyous spirit.” “It was a thrilling moment to be part of the bigger family of

Baptists praying and worshipping together. A heavenly picture of saints,” said Jabulile Mqakanya. “Really enjoyed hearing the Bible in so many different languages and seeing the language clusters,” said Cliff Vaughn from the US. “It was massive,” enthused Jonas Schoole Kakenge of Zimbabwe. For those who could not attend the meetings in Durban, they

were able to watch a live feed from their respective locations via live online streaming. “Thanks for showing today’s service. It was very good!” said Nora Lozano-Diaz of San Antonio, Texas, in

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Top right: Scenes from the Baptist World Congress in Durban, South Africa

Left: Baptist women in leadership in Europe in a networking session during the congress, several of whom are heads of conventions and unions

OCTOBER/DECEMBER 2015 5

Africa. “We are HERE!! Ready for a fantastic congress!” exulted Cassandra Jones of the United States. “May this world conference bring tremendous revival among Baptists around the world!” said Mbzibui Emmanuel Cheng of Cameroon. Tracy from Virginia in the US observed that “the city has been welcoming and marvelous as always. Day one hasn’t disappointed!” Herman, a resident of Durban, declared, “it’s truly an honor being a part of such a great global network; Durban looks alive with expectancy.” Luay from Indonesia, said, “my first time in South Africa looks to be a memorable one. I’m expecting great things over the next few days.”