In 1945, shortly after the end of World War II, the United Nations was established. On January 10, 1946, the U. N. had its inaugural session, a first conference which took place in the Methodist Central Hall, right across the street from Westminster Abbey, in London (England). This conference brought together delegates from 51 nations who had the responsibility to define the scope and purpose of the new organization. On January 17, 2026, the Methodist Central Hall celebrates the 80th anniversary of this historic event which also shows the connections and the commitment of the Wesleyan and Methodist movement to peace, human rights, and worldwide justice. The current reality around the world and the ongoing threats to peace are an important indicator that initiatives such as those led by the United Nations are more important than ever.
(Photo courtesy: Methodist Central Hall)
The Methodist Central Hall Westminster opened its doors to the world once again to remind the people about the importance of this event eight decades ago. In a special event, the HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, the President of the U. N. General Assembly, the Secretary-General, and diplomatic leaders from across the globe marked this date. IAMSCU and its network of schools, colleges, seminaries and theological schools as well as universities, joint the world in celebrating and defending peace and international collaboration today.