By: Gbayor Charles Gbayor | UM News Gbarnga
Gbarnga – Bong County : Bishop Samuel Quire, the leader of the United Methodist Church (UMC) of Liberia, has strongly denounced claims labeling the church as a “gay church” those spreading such false accusations. His comments came during his episcopal address at the 192nd session of the Liberia Annual Conference held in Gbarnga on Thursday.
In a firm statement, Bishop Quire clarified the church’s position on same-sex marriage, reaffirming that the United Methodist Church in Liberia does not support the practice. He acknowledged the controversial decision made at the 2024 General Conference, which permits individual pastors the option to decline performing same-sex marriages if they wish. However, he emphasized that the UMC in Liberia continues to uphold traditional biblical teachings on marriage.
“The United Methodist Church of Liberia upholds the biblical principle of marriage as a sacred covenant between one man and one woman,” Bishop Quire stated. “We are a strong church of God, committed to ministering to sinners in need of God’s saving grace. Our denomination is making a significant impact globally, and we will not allow anyone to distort our beliefs.”
Despite this clarification, Bishop Quire’s statement on the 2024 General Conference decision was seen by some as ambiguous, particularly regarding the church’s stance on same-sex marriage. While he firmly reiterated the church’s biblical views, the mention of pastors being free to decline same-sex marriage ceremonies left room for varied interpretations.
Support for Regionalization and Criticism of Anti-Regionalization Group
The Bishop also addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the issue of regionalization within the church. He expressed strong support for the policy, explaining that it empowers annual conferences worldwide to make ministry decisions suited to their local contexts, making the church’s work more relevant and impactful.
Bishop Quire shared that the West African College of Bishops had officially endorsed the regionalization policy. He argued that this approach would better reflect the diverse cultural and social dynamics of the church’s global congregations, especially in Africa.
“For too long, more powerful regions of the church have imposed their will on others,” Bishop Quire remarked. “Regionalization gives us the opportunity to make decisions that align with our local needs while staying connected to the global church.”
He also took the opportunity to criticize the growing anti-regionalization movement, which has been gaining momentum in some parts of the UMC. These critics, who recently formed a new denomination called the Global Methodist Church, have been vocal in opposing the regionalization policy. Bishop Quire condemned this group, calling it a divisive force within the church.
“We strongly condemn those who are working to form the Global Methodist Church while still claiming membership in the United Methodist Church,” Bishop Quire declared. “We urge them to withdraw from our denomination, as we will not tolerate their disruptive actions. Anyone found in violation of this will face disciplinary action.”
Firm Stance on Disaffiliation
The Bishop also addressed the controversial issue of disaffiliation, which has been a hot topic within the church in recent years. Bishop Quire made it clear that the UMC in Liberia has decisively closed the door on any further discussions about disaffiliation.
A proposal for disaffiliation had been brought forward by some members of the Liberia Episcopal Area, but it was ultimately defeated. As a result, Bishop Quire declared that the matter would not be revisited.
“The petition for disaffiliation was sponsored by some of our members from this area. Unfortunately for them, it was rejected, and as a result, the paragraph on disaffiliation is closed,” the Bishop stated. “We will not allow attempts to revive this issue, and we stand firm in our commitment to the United Methodist Church.”
Suspension of Young Adult Fellowship Leadership
In another significant development, Bishop Quire announced the suspension of the leadership of the Young Adult Fellowship, a key ministry group within the church. He cited what he described as “unruly behavior” from the fellowship’s leadership, including their disrespectful conduct toward his person and their efforts to undermine the administration.
Bishop Quire was resolute in his condemnation of the group’s actions, labeling them as “anti-United Methodism” and “anti-administration.”
“These leaders have demonstrated behavior that is incompatible with the values of the United Methodist Church,” Bishop Quire stated. “They have been working actively to undermine the work of the church and sow division among our members. We will not tolerate this kind of behavior, and as a result, their leadership has been suspended.”
The suspension of the Young Adult Fellowship leadership has sparked a wave of reactions within the church. Supporters of the Bishop’s decision argue that it was necessary to maintain unity and discipline, while others have expressed concern over the perceived authoritarian nature of the move.
Conclusion
Bishop Quire’s address at the 192nd Liberia Annual Conference highlighted several key issues facing the United Methodist Church in Liberia. From legal threats against those spreading false accusations about the church’s stance on same-sex marriage to his firm position on regionalization and disaffiliation, the Bishop has made it clear that the church will stand united in the face of external pressures and internal challenges.
With his strong leadership, Bishop Quire is aiming to guide the church through a time of significant change, emphasizing unity, discipline, and a commitment to the core teachings of the Christian faith. Whether or not these decisions will foster unity within the church remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Bishop Quire is determined to ensure that the United Methodist Church in Liberia remains true to its foundational principles.