Monrovia, Liberia — In a heartfelt address to the members of the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, retired bishops of the Liberia Episcopal Area have released a joint statement affirming their commitment to unity, peace, and traditional Christian values. The statement, jointly signed by Bishop Arthur Flomo Kulah and Bishop John Genca Innis, reflects a firm stance on marriage, a call for education on the newly endorsed concept of worldwide regionalization, and a strong message of support for Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr.
The statement begins with a reminder of the church’s primary mission, referencing the biblical mandate in Matthew 28:18-20 to make disciples of all nations. “As retired bishops,” they wrote, “we are compelled by the Spirit of God to address the current state of our church.” This introduction grounds the message in scripture and speaks to the bishops’ sense of duty to safeguard the church’s faith and unity amid ongoing conversations and challenges within the denomination.
Affirming Traditional Marriage Values
Addressing the issue of marriage and human sexuality, the retired bishops reaffirmed their commitment to traditional Christian teachings. The statement clearly defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman, consistent with both biblical teachings and Liberian cultural traditions. “We uphold the sacredness of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, consistent with biblical teachings, Liberian cultural traditions, and our laws,” they stated. In a firm stance against same-sex marriage, the bishops reiterated, “We categorically say no to it,” emphasizing that the practice has never been accepted within the United Methodist Church of Liberia.
This affirmation is significant, as it aligns with the position of many churches across Africa and serves as a response to recent global debates within the broader United Methodist Church on the topic of marriage and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Endorsing Worldwide Regionalization for Contextual Ministry
The retired bishops voiced their support for the 2020/2024 General Conference’s decision to approve worldwide regionalization, a framework that allows for more localized ministry practices. This endorsement of regionalization empowers churches to develop resources and ministries tailored to their cultural and social contexts. The bishops clarified that this endorsement does not imply a shift in the church’s stance on same-sex marriage, highlighting that regionalization is intended to enhance ministry rather than alter foundational beliefs.
“We endorse worldwide regionalization,” the bishops wrote, “to develop regional resources that reflect our needs and circumstances.” They also urged the Liberian United Methodist community to view regionalization as an opportunity for growth and relevance, rather than a departure from core beliefs.
Support for Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr., and Call for Peaceful Voting
In a strong show of solidarity, the retired bishops expressed support for Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr., commending his leadership and urging all members of the Liberia Annual Conference to stand behind him. As the church approaches a pivotal vote on constitutional amendments in 2025, the retired bishops called on members to participate peacefully, highlighting the importance of unity within the denomination.
A Plea for Peaceful Coexistence and Respectful Departures
Acknowledging the diverse views within the church, the bishops emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, even as some members may feel led to leave. They urged those considering departure to do so “in peace, love, and respect for the church’s leadership,” drawing on historical examples of previous separations before the 1968 merger.
The statement also addresses concerns over behaviors that may be harming the church’s reputation. It implores clergy members to desist from actions that “scandalize” the name of the United Methodist Church, underscoring the need for a united and respectable witness to the Christian faith.
Education and Unity Through Understanding Worldwide Regionalization
The retired bishops advocate for continued education on worldwide regionalization to ensure that church members fully understand its purpose. They emphasized that regionalization allows for context-specific ministry that aligns with the General Conference and Council of Bishops’ mandate. “We encourage ongoing education on worldwide regionalization, tailored to our context,” they stated, urging members to embrace understanding over condemnation.
A United Call to Action
As the Liberia Area of the United Methodist Church moves forward, the retired bishops called on all members to focus on their shared mission: “to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” They encouraged the ratification of worldwide regionalization, which they believe aligns with the global church’s vision while respecting Liberia’s unique cultural and spiritual identity.
In concluding their statement, the bishops expressed hope for the statement to inspire clarity, unity, love, peace, and guidance within the Liberian United Methodist Church. They invoked the grace of God to aid the church in fulfilling its mission and overcoming the challenges before it.
The Joint Solidarity Statement was signed by Bishop Arthur Flomo Kulah, who served from 1980 to 2000, and Bishop John Genca Innis, who served from 2000 to 2016. Their message stands as a testament to the enduring values and unity of the United Methodist Church in Liberia amid changing times and theological debates within the global church.
