By Foday Moriba Conteh
Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah officially concluded his ten-year tenure as Executive President of the Baptist Convention Sierra Leone (BCSL) during the 52nd Annual Session, held from 26th February to 1st March 2026. The four-day convention, themed: “Serving God Faithfully with the Spirit of Grace,” culminated in a thanksgiving service at the Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah Multi-Purpose Building Conference Hall in Lunsar.
In his farewell address, Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah expressed gratitude to God, the Convention’s leadership, clergy, partners and delegates for their support throughout his decade-long leadership. He described the occasion as particularly meaningful, reflecting on the spiritual, organizational and infrastructural progress achieved under his administration.
He also announced the passing of Rev. Mrs. Christian Doehring’s husband, a missionary at the Evangelical College of Theology (TECT), extending condolences and noting that a memorial service would be held at TECT prior to the repatriation of the remains.
Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah highlighted several accomplishments during his tenure:
- Refurbishment of the BCSL national office in Freetown.
- Acquisition and fencing of 21.7 acres of land in Lunsar for the BCSL Conference Centre.
- Restructuring of the Baptist Eye Hospital (BEHL), enhancing its status as a leading eye care facility.
- Training of two ophthalmologists, two cataract surgeons and additional medical personnel.
- Awarding scholarships to over 30 teachers and providing Master’s scholarships to pastors.
- Construction and rehabilitation of schools and churches across Bo, Kenema, Kono and other districts.
- Documentation of key Convention properties and rebuilding of the Kingtom compound.
- Establishment of eight international partnerships, including with the Hungarian Baptist Union and Christian Blind Mission (CBM).
- Expansion of the Convention to 56 churches and over 80 fellowships nationwide.
- Growth of the BCSL education system to 15 secondary schools, 51 primary schools and three TVET institutions, ranking it as the third-largest mission-owned school system in Sierra Leone.
- Strengthening financial sustainability with net assets exceeding Le 63million.
In the final year of his leadership, he noted progress including the installation of an 11KW solar system at the Conference Centre, completion of a modern multipurpose building, monthly support for 20 rural pastors via the Hungarian Baptist Union, training of 56 church planters with the Baptist Global Resource Centre and completion of two Primary Health Centres in Karene and Mongoh under CBM support. He also highlighted BCSL representation at international conferences in Australia, France and South Africa, and humanitarian interventions in over twelve flood- and fire-affected communities.
Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah concluded by urging the incoming leadership to review the Convention’s Strategic Plan and Constitution and to strengthen governance through comprehensive ministerial and church policies. “I have given my best, my energy, my mind, my resources, my strength and I am grateful to witness extraordinary progress over these ten years,” he said, calling for unity, integrity and continued commitment to the Great Commission.
Rev. Dr. Professor Momolu Armstrong Massaquoi, President of the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the Bible exposition on the theme “Serving God Faithfully with the Spirit of Grace.” Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:58, he emphasized steadfastness, grace, and unity in Christian service.
“The people of grace are those who have encountered the Lord and been transformed by His saving power,” Rev. Dr. Massaquoi explained, stressing that grace unites believers into a spiritual family. He cautioned that spiritual gifts alone do not equate to true spirituality, noting that moral integrity and the fruit of the Spirit, love, humility and faithfulness, are essential for authentic Christian service.
He further elaborated on the power of grace, encouraging delegates to remain steadfast and unwavering in ministry and to go “overboard” in dedication, reflecting the selfless love exemplified by Christ. His message emphasized perseverance, resilience and courage to act according to God’s calling, even when it requires stepping beyond comfort zones.
Paramount Chief, Bai Koblo Queen II, of Marampa Chiefdom praised BCSL for its contributions to nation-building, education and social harmony. He highlighted the Church’s role in healing, guidance and community development, commending its investments in schools, clinics and moral education, which have fostered responsible citizens and peaceful communities.
Rev. Hendry A. Samuels, President of the Council of Churches Sierra Leone, reflected on the 52-year legacy of BCSL, noting its steadfastness amid challenges. He encouraged delegates to balance local church autonomy with collective collaboration and to exercise leadership with grace, humility and love.
Rev. Dr. Warren Fornah, Principal of TECT, commended BCSL for supporting theological education and church development, noting that the institution now hosts over 400 students and is expanding its infrastructure. He stressed that Christian service entails humility, love, unity and selfless sacrifice, calling for avoidance of rivalry, jealousy and suspicion.
Bishop Benjamin B. Bangura, General Superintendent of the National Pentecostal Mission Sierra Leone & Diaspora, praised the Convention’s visible growth and infrastructural development. He underscored faithful leadership, total commitment to God’s vision and spiritual devotion as foundations for sustainable success.
Bishop Magnus Bendu of the Counters of Huntingdon Mission echoed the call for unity, loyalty and forgiveness, encouraging members to support leadership transitions and prioritize reconciliation over suspicion.
Apostle Dr. Abraham Felix Turay of the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone urged delegates to serve with compassion, humility and unity, highlighting perseverance and dedication in ministry.
Gifty Florence Massaquoi, Executive Director of the Christian Health Association Sierra Leone (CHASL), recognized BCSL’s contributions to health initiatives, including cataract surgeries and community outreach, noting that their impact extends beyond Sierra Leone. She commended the Convention’s support, meticulous planning and alignment with CHASL’s mission.
The 52nd Annual Baptist Convention Sierra Leone brought together pastors, church leaders, delegates and international partners, reaffirming the Convention’s commitment to faithful service, unity and spiritual excellence. The event celebrated the legacy of outgoing President Rev. Dr. Joseph S. Fornah while emphasizing the enduring importance of grace, perseverance and collaborative leadership for the growth of BCSL and its mission across Sierra Leone.
