While visiting the Jamaican conference, one of the elder women shared words of Jamaican folklore: "Wha' Fi Yuh, Cyaan Be Un-Fi Yuh", meaning, 'What God has ordained for you cannot be taken away.'

As we prepare for the 2026 General Conference in Dallas, Texas, I humbly present myself as a candidate for the sacred office of Bishop in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. I do so with gratitude for God's grace, confidence in God's call and a deep love for the Church that has nurtured and shaped my life and ministry.

"Wha' Fi Yuh, Cyaan Be Un-Fi Yuh"
What God has destined and appointed — is about trusting the sovereign will of God.

My journey in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church did not begin with me. I am a third-generation CME, standing on the shoulders of faithful men and women who loved Christ, served His Church, and passed on a legacy of faith and commitment.

My father, the late Rev. C. L. Henderson, carried the torch of ministry throughout the Louisiana Conference of the Fourth Episcopal District from 1917 until his passing in 1975. He faithfully proclaimed the Gospel, shepherded congregations, and dedicated his life to the advancement of Christ's Kingdom through the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. His ministry was not merely an occupation; it was a calling lived with sacrifice, devotion, and unwavering faith.

On my mother's side, that same legacy continued. My maternal grandfather and grandmother — whom we affectionately called "Big Momma" — were pillars of faith and steadfast supporters of Carolina Bluff and Booker Memorial CME Churches in the Shreveport District of the Louisiana Conference. Alongside them, my mother, the late Mrs. Marie Henderson, served faithfully as a devoted leader and supporter of the church. Through their example, I learned that ministry is more than what happens in the pulpit; it is also what happens in the pew, in the community, in the home, and in the everyday witness of faithful discipleship.

Long before I answered my own call to ministry, I witnessed the power of generational faith. I saw the church not simply as a place to attend, but as a family to love, a mission to support, and a Kingdom assignment to embrace. The values of faithfulness, sacrifice, stewardship, service, and commitment were planted in me by those who came before me.

Today, I carry that same torch. I do so with profound gratitude for the heritage entrusted to me and with a commitment to leave the church stronger for those who will follow after us.

Throughout 46 years of ministry, I have sought not position, but purpose, not titles, but faithful service. God has blessed me to serve in the First, Third, Fourth, Sixth, and Eighth Episcopal Districts as a pastor, preacher, teacher, mentor, community leader, and servant of Christ. Every assignment has reinforced a simple truth — when God opens a door, no one can shut it, and when God calls, His grace is sufficient.

The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church stands at a critical junction in its history. We are called to strengthen our congregations, empower our clergy, engage our communities, invest in our youth and young adults, and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ with courage and conviction. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities.

If elected, I pledge to serve with:

• Faithfulness to God's Word
• Commitment to Connectional Ministry
• Integrity in Leadership
• Vision for the future
• Dedication to starting the conversation to bring a new stream of income into the connectional church, toward lowering the assessment on the local church.

I believe that our greatest days are still ahead of us when we walk together in faith, unity, and purpose. The church needs leaders who will listen, inspire, equip, and lead with both wisdom and humility.

As we journey toward General Conference 2026, I ask for your prayers, your support, your partnership, and your vote. Together, let us continue building a church that honors our rich heritage while boldly embracing God's future for the CME Church.

May we always remember that God's purpose cannot be hindered by obstacles, opposition, or uncertainty.

"Wha' Fi Yuh, Cyaan Be Un-Fi Yuh"
If it is God's will, His purpose shall prevail.