In July 2025, Relay Trust travelled to Sierra Leone and Liberia to walk alongside the Internal Province of West Africa (IpWA) during an important moment of strategic reflection and forward planning. Doug Ingram (CEO) and James Stileman (Regional Relationship Manager for IpWA) represented the Trust.
The trip was anchored around several key events: the Mount Zion (MZ) Board Meeting and AGM, a Strategic Planning Committee workshop, and the Provincial Standing Committee. In each setting, church leaders, diocesan representatives, and MZ staff gathered to share updates, explore challenges, and shape the future of the Province.
One of the visit’s key outcomes was a growing consensus on the need for self-sufficiency. The church decided that now is the time to focus on solidifying structures and build financial resilience. A key tool in this will be a comprehensive asset audit across the dioceses, supported by Relay Trust, alongside efforts to “count the Church” and better understand the needs and reach of the Anglican community.
The visit also included travel to the Diocese of Bo in Sierra Leone and the Diocese of Liberia. In Bo, James met with local clergy, visited churches, and explored how theological education and income-generating projects might evolve in the region. Liberia’s visit brought further insight into the Episcopal Church’s potential. With significant urban assets, the Diocese is seeking ways to leverage its properties for sustainable income and local ministry growth.
Throughout the visit, the unity of purpose amongst the bishops was clear, with a desire for accountability and transparency, and a growing emphasis on evangelism, discipleship, and theological training. Much of this effort is being channelled through Mount Zion, and the need for better infrastructure, clearer strategy, and stronger governance remains a pressing concern.
This journey reaffirmed the Trust’s commitment to support the Province as it builds towards sustainability; financially, spiritually, and structurally. Please continue to pray for the bishops, clergy, and lay leaders of IpWA as they seek to strengthen the Church for generations to come.
