Josiah, Momodu Syl

Momodu Syl Josiah is an International Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service.  

The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world. 

Momodu is a member of Price Memorial United Methodist Church in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The church is related to the Sierra Leone Annual Conference. “I’m serving as secretary general for my local young adult fellowship and as the Western District (Freetown) young adults president,” he said. “I’m volunteering with the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministry.” Up to 500 young people are part of the ministry, he said. 

He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and sociology from Fourah Bay College in Freetown.  

“My personal spiritual growth and desire for mission calls are influenced by my strong desire to serve others and my deeply rooted Christian lifestyle, which borders around selflessness and serving others,” Momodu said. “Born into a strongly United Methodist family, I have worked my way into the leadership and service organogram of the Sierra Leone Annual Conference.”  

Centering his spiritual life on faith, prayer, fasting, almsgiving and serving others, Momodu is also shaped by the Bible and the United Methodist Social Principles. 

“I believe in treating people right and justly,” he said, “regardless of their situation, race or any other reasons.” He has served The United Methodist Church in various capacities and positions on local, district and national levels. He strives to demonstrate good Christian character and provide leadership. 

“My desire to serve others and be a change agent,” Momodu said, “is a motivation factor for my application into the Global Mission Fellows program. Locally, I have served my church and society, and I think I can also serve and exhibit my leadership and skills outside my local environs. I find pleasure in serving others, modeling my lifestyle on that of Jesus Christ. 

“I will bring a wealth of experience in service to humanity, collaborate with local young adult groups, and seek to draft, plan and implement programs.” Passionate about climate and the environment, Momodu hopes to formulate such strategies as tree planting, renewable energy and advocacy to tackle issues.  

“I see spiritual growth,” he explained, “as a process that requires learning Scripture, having a personal relationship with God and being a vessel that is ready to be used by God. This I have done and will continue to do for as long as it pleases God.”