Mozambique Initiative Announces Leadership Change

News July 02, 2018

Rev. Tina L. Harris, Director of the Office of Mission, Service and Justice Ministries, announced today that after three years of service, Craig Stevenson, Associate Director of the Mozambique Initiative, resigned in order to pursue new vocational opportunities. Stevenson has accepted a lobbyist position with Kids Win Missouri, a coalition of organizations and individuals dedicated to improving the well-being of Missouri children. His last day of full time employment with the Conference will be July 13th.

"Craig has done great work in moving the Mozambique Initiative forward. We just celebrated the most fruitful year to date in local church engagement and generosity," Bishop Bob Farr said. "I am particularly grateful for his guidance in the renewal of our covenant agreement last summer."

Harris and Stevenson have established a strong transition plan through the summer. The Missouri Annual Conference is committed to the forward momentum of this fruitful and innovative ministry in partnership with the Igreja Metodista Unida Em Mozambique and in conversation with Ezequiel Marcos Nhantumbo, MI representative in Maputo. Notes of thanksgiving and farewell for Craig’s work and ministry can be sent to craigstevenson2040@gmail.com.

"It is with mixed feelings that that we say Godspeed to Craig as the leader of the MI," said Harris. "I have learned a great deal about the wonderful partnership with our colleagues in Mozambique thanks to his counsel and leadership. But, I am happy he will have the opportunity to bless people through advocacy as he works for the well-being of children in Missouri."

The Office of Mission, Service and Justice Ministries will begin exploring leadership opportunities for this ministry. Technical questions related to local church partnerships can be directed to Ezequiel Nhantumbo at ezequielnhantumbo@yahoo.com. If you or someone you know is passionate about global missions and engagement, please contact tharris@moumethodist.org.

The Mozambique Initiative (MI) is a holistic ministry based on partnership with the Igreja Metodista Unida Em Mozambique. Its focus is on enabling the sustainability of United Methodist communities in Mozambique, so that they might be the catalyst for growth and development in their region. Learn more about the initiative at www.mzinitiative.com.