In June 2025, Relay Trust CEO Doug Ingram and Chris Hyliger, our Regional Relationship Manager for the Province of the Indian Ocean, attended the Province’s Strategic Planning Workshop in Madagascar. Representatives from every diocese within the Province, from across Madagascar, Seychelles, and Mauritius, gathered, alongside partners from USPG and Anglican Aid, to discern together the next steps for their shared mission.
The goal was to craft a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for the Anglican Church in the Indian Ocean, covering the period from 2025 to 2030. Over several days, leaders reflected honestly on their challenges and opportunities, considering vital areas like theological training, grassroots discipleship, evangelism, service to the community, financial stability, and ethical governance.
The workshop made encouraging progress, highlighting significant areas for action, including the urgent need for grassroots leadership training, evangelism among youth and unreached communities, and creating a financially sustainable future for the Province. One exciting development was the proposed creation of a Malagasy-language catechism, aiming to strengthen teaching and discipleship at every parish level.
However, the task remains unfinished, with further work and careful consideration required before the plan is fully ratified. It is clear that the diverse contexts of Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles demand a nuanced yet united approach, respecting each diocese’s unique circumstances while reinforcing their collective mission
Relay Trust was privileged to support this important gathering, humbly assisting in guiding some discussions. Our role, as always, is to serve alongside local leaders, equipping them to take ownership of their strategy and vision.
We ask for your continued prayers, for wisdom as the strategy moves toward completion and for strength and unity across the Church in the Indian Ocean. The hope and commitment evident in Madagascar give us every reason to trust that, together, God’s mission will flourish across this vibrant and diverse region.
