The South Bedfordshire Methodist Circuit has welcomed its new Superintendent Minister, Revd Doreen Koffie-Williams.
Ecumenical guests and faith leaders from across Christian denominations in Luton and Dunstable, together with Luton Council of Faiths representative, gathered for a Welcome Service at The Square Methodist Church in Dunstable.
Revd Dr David Chapman, Chair of the Bedfordshire, Essex and Hertfordshire Methodist District, formally welcomed Revd Koffie-Williams as she begins her ministry within the Circuit.
Reflecting on his role supporting Methodist churches and ministers across the District, Revd Chapman described welcome services as among the most joyful occasions in ministry.
Speaking on the meaning of welcome, he acknowledged that the word can sometimes be used to exclude as well as include.
"In today's society, we often hear that some people are not welcome, especially those who are different from us. But Christian welcome is not about exclusion. It is about receiving one another as God receives us," he said.
He reminded the congregation of Jesus' words: "Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me."
Referring to the scripture readings, Revd Chapman highlighted themes of God's grace, mercy, forgiveness and renewal. Quoting Isaiah, he said God's messengers are called to bring good news and peace. "The message of the Gospel is a message of hope and peace. Messages that divide, dehumanise or foster hatred are not consistent with the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
He also reflected on Jesus' commission to his disciples, calling Christians to lives shaped by love, service and self-giving. "The command of Christ is simple and profound: 'Love one another as I have loved you.' The way of Christ is the way of sacrificial love, not power for its own sake."
Welcoming Revd Koffie-Williams, he described her role as one of leadership, pastoral care and oversight within the Circuit.
"We receive Doreen among us as a minister of Word and Sacrament and as a pastor entrusted with the care of God's people. She comes as one sent by the Methodist Conference and ultimately by God."
However, he stressed that ministry is a shared responsibility across the Church. "It is not the task of one person alone. The Apostle Paul reminds us that every member of the Church is gifted by the Holy Spirit for ministry. We are all called to serve."
He encouraged the congregation to recommit themselves to prayer, service, justice, care for creation and the flourishing of all people.
Revd Doreen Koffie-Williams said:
"At the heart of my ministry is a passion for people. I have always felt called to serve alongside communities, sharing in their joys and challenges and walking with them through every stage of life.
"As I begin this new chapter as Superintendent Minister, I do so with gratitude, humility and hope. While the responsibilities of leadership are significant, my calling remains the same: to serve God and serve people.
"In a short time here, I have already witnessed the strength, warmth and generosity of this community. I have shared in moments of celebration, heard stories of new beginnings and supported people through times of loss and bereavement. These experiences remind us that life brings both challenges and blessings, and that faith, love and compassion help us navigate them together.
"My prayer is that we continue to build a community characterised by unity, friendship, healing and grace. We may not always agree on everything, but the true test of our faith is how we respond to one another with understanding, respect and kindness.
"I am blessed to be supported by dedicated colleagues and congregations across the Circuit, and I look forward to working together in the years ahead. With God's grace, I believe we can continue to strengthen our communities and make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. May God bless you all."
