The final session of the 103rd International Assembly began with prayer led by Wider Europe and Middle East Ministries, as leaders prayed in multiple languages for church planting, peace, healthy congregations, unity, and a fresh work of the Holy Spirit. Global Missions awards recognized churches for faithful giving, and the Assembly also paused to remember Bishop Guillermo “Willie” Espinoza, who had suffered a cardiac event following Thursday evening’s celebration and passed away on Friday.
Bishop Dr. Clayton Martin delivered the closing challenge, “Jesus’ Last Word—Promised Power for His Witnesses,” from Acts 1:4–8. Declaring that “God’s work requires God’s power,” Martin reminded the Church that the Holy Spirit empowers believers not for status or recognition, but for service, mission, and witness. He challenged delegates to leave the Assembly prepared to testify about Jesus in their communities and carry the gospel to the ends of the earth.
The morning also became a time of gratitude and transition as the Assembly honored Dr. Betty Jane Fisher and recognized Bishops Clayton Endecott and Clayton Martin, Bishop Dr. Michael Hernandez, Reverend Dr. Cathy Payne, and Bishop Kirk Rising for their years of service. New appointments to the International Offices, ministry departments, committees, and other areas (national/regional/state bishops) were announced before Bishop Tim Coalter commissioned the appointees to carry the testimony of Jesus Christ into the world. Minister June Gordon then led the congregation in “Let’s Go Up,” bringing the 103rd International Assembly to a joyful close.