The Meserete Kristos Church (MKC), a member of Mennonite World Conference, signed a memorandum of understanding with the executive leadership of the MWC to host a global Mennonite conference in Ethiopia in 2028.
The MoU was signed by Pastor Desalegn Abebe Ejo, the President of MKC, on behalf of the Meserete Kristos Church and Dr. Henk Stenvers, the President of MWC, on behalf of the Mennonite World Conference. The MoU was signed by both parties when the MWC visited Ethiopia on January 11-17, 2024 to hold a preliminary discussion about the conference.
The Anabaptist movement had begun in Europe 500 years ago. The Anabaptist faith and practices gradually spread globally and today, there are millions of Anabaptist followers in the global south. In 2028, the 500th Anniversary of the Anabaptist movement will be celebrated in Ethiopia.
Pastor Desalegn stated that it is an honor to host the 2028 MWC that coincides with the 500th Anniversary of the Mennonite movement. He affirmed that MKC will do everything at its capacity to make the conference memorable and inspirational.
The MWC leaders with MKC leaders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, January 2024
A national committee was formed to plan for the conference and work with the WMC leadership. The chairperson of the committee is brother Tewodros Beyene. The team visited different places to explore possible venues and discuss with relevant government officials about the event.