S. Tilewa Johnson, PhD, will speak on being a Christian leader in a predominately Muslim country 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 18, in university chapel as part of International Education Week. In addition, Johnson will speak at seminary chapel at 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 17.
Johnson, bishop of the Diocese of The Gambia, is the first Gambian national to hold his position.
“Bishop Johnson has many years experience as a church leader in West Africa, a region where Christian-Muslim dialogue and understanding are essential,” said Byron Peachey, associate campus pastor. “His diocese is also diverse in language and culture as it includes Senegal, Cape Verde as well as The Gambia.”
Johnson will speak about how his work impacts his faith and ministry and how Muslims and Christians can work together despite differences, said Peachey.
Johnson spent two decades as a priest and worked towards a goal of balance between “evangelism and social responsibility within a holistic and inclusive ministry.” Johnson’s ministry seeks to “nurture the soul, enlighten and empower the mind, nourish the body, protect the environment, promote advocacy and liberation for the sinned-against and downtrodden,” according to his website.
He is the father of EMU alum Francis Johnson and current undergraduate Clothilda Johnson.
For more information call campus ministries at 540-432-4115.