By Precious D. Freeman
The head of the United Methodist Church in Liberia, Bishop Samuel Quire, has reiterated with emphasis that the church will not endorse same-sex marriages or ordain LGBTQ individuals, emphasizing that such practices contradict both local laws and the church’s core beliefs.
This declaration comes in the wake of increasing tensions within the church, particularly following a controversial decision made at the United Methodist Church’s recent General Conference in the United States, which allowed for regional variations in policy.
Speaking at the LNP headquarters on Monday, Bishop Quire clarified that while the General Conference lifted the ban on same-sex marriage, this decision does not apply to Liberia, where cultural and legal standards firmly oppose such practices.
“The United Methodist Church is not a GAY Church,” he affirmed, underscoring the commitment to traditional Christian teachings. “We minister to all individuals, but we do not subscribe to same-sex marriage or ordination of LGBTQ persons.”
The controversy has intensified as protests concurrently erupted at two United Methodist Churches in Monrovia during worship hours on Sunday, October 13, 2024.
Congregants at the New Georgia United Methodist Church and the 72nd United Methodist Church expressed their dissent over recent leadership decisions and the church’s stance on homosexuality.
At the New Georgia UMC, tensions escalated following the suspension of Rev. Leo T. Mayson, a vocal critic of the church’s regionalization initiative.
Supporters of Rev. Mayson rallied to demand Bishop Quire’s resignation, declaring, “We will not bow to regionalization or homosexuality in our churches.”
Bishop Quire noted that the ongoing discussions surrounding regionalization are intended to adapt the church’s governance to local contexts while maintaining its foundational beliefs.
“We have 18 months to rectify our position on regionalization,” he explained, calling for patience and dialogue within the church’s community.
As part of these discussions, the church plans to address the growing misunderstandings and reinforce its commitment to biblical teachings during the upcoming Annual Conference.
Bishop Quire, has again, emphasized the importance of clarity in the church’s mission, stating, “Our focus is on making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, not on divisive debates.”
The broader implications of the General Conference’s decisions are being felt worldwide, particularly in Africa, where conservative values regarding sexuality prevail.
Bishop Quire affirmed that the Liberia Annual Conference will remain steadfast in its interpretation of the scripture, reinforcing its commitment to outreach and ministry without compromising its principles.
As the church navigates these complex issues, Bishop Quire maintains a call for unity and constructive dialogue among members, urging all to uphold the church’s mission and avoid actions that could undermine its ministry.
In a related development, the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police, Gregory Coleman, clarified that the church has never officiated a same-sex marriage in Liberia, countering misinformation circulating on social media.
IG Coleman emphasized the unity of the United Methodist Church in Liberia and the church’s adherence to traditional values.
The next six months will be critical for discussions on regionalization, with plans for consultations and awareness campaigns aimed at fostering understanding within the Liberia Episcopal Area.
In conclusion, as the United Methodist Church in Liberia grapples with its future direction, Bishop Quire’s firm stance against LGBTQ issues reflects a broader commitment to traditional values, even amid global shifts within the denomination.
