The Methodist Church in Uruguay, Montevideo

The Methodist Church in Uruguay has its origins in 1838, introduced by a mission from England, and saw a re-establishment in 1870 by the Methodist Missionary Society of the USA. This re-establishment linked the church's activities with the broader Methodist mission centered in Buenos Aires until Uruguay was designated a distinct district in 1893 during the formation of the annual Conference of South America.

In 1952, the Methodist Church in Uruguay became a provisional conference, gaining autonomy from Argentina in 1968, which transitioned the church from an episcopal system to a presidential system of governance. This system allows both clergy and lay members to assume leadership roles. The highest authority is the national assembly, supported by a board for Life and Mission, which oversees the church’s operations.

The church’s mission encompasses five key areas: evangelism, education and formation, women and family, youth, and service and witness. These are coordinated with a communication department to ensure a unified approach to fulfilling the church's mission. Noteworthy initiatives include the Integrated Rural Mission and the Urban Mission in Montevideo, addressing the needs of both rural and urban communities.

Additionally, the church is actively engaged in social issues, working closely with the Waldensian Church on women’s reproductive rights and ministries supporting individuals of diverse sexual orientations. This advocacy is part of its broader commitment to human and political rights within Uruguay.

Regionally, the church participates in the "Churches without Borders" program, a collaborative effort started in 2003 with the Methodist churches of Argentina and southern Brazil, focusing on mission and pastoral work in the border areas of these countries.