The United Brethren in Christ (UBC) Sierra Leone Conference has consecrated its first-ever female bishop, Reverend Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa, marking a historic development in the leadership of the denomination.
Reverend Sowa was solemnly consecrated as Bishop on February 15, 2026, following her election on October 10, 2025, at the Henrietta School Compound in Kenema City. Her election and subsequent consecration signal what church leaders described as a defining moment for the conference.
The consecration ceremony was attended by ministers, delegates, ecumenical partners and dignitaries from across the country. Representatives from the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone, the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone, the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone, sister denominations and members of the wider Christian community gathered to witness the occasion.
According to the conference, the electoral process that produced Reverend Sowa as bishop was widely declared free, fair and credible by observers and stakeholders. Her election is being regarded within the church as a significant step toward greater gender inclusion in leadership.
Before her elevation, Bishop Sowa served as pastor of Faith UBC Church in Freetown. The conference noted that she brings extensive pastoral experience and a record of dedicated service to her new role.
In her remarks during the consecration service, Bishop Sowa expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the conference for the confidence reposed in her. “I give all thanks and praise to God Almighty for this historic moment,” she said. She also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing bishop, Reverend John Momoh Pessima, and thanked her colleagues for their support during the transition.
Emphasizing unity, she stated, “We can only achieve our shared goals through unity and teamwork.” She further reaffirmed her respect for her opponent in the election, describing her as a sister in Christ, and called on members of the United Brethren in Christ family to move forward together in faith and service.
Church leaders say the consecration of Bishop Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa represents a new chapter for the United Brethren in Christ Sierra Leone Conference, with a renewed focus on inclusive leadership and commitment to its Gospel mission.









