By: Shammah Dorbor | UM News
Bishop Samuel Quire of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia has firmly reiterated the church’s opposition to same-sex marriage, following recent reports of a purported gay wedding ceremony near the Japan Freeway on October 13. The event sparked a strong backlash from church members, bringing to the forefront ongoing tensions within the denomination over LGBTQ+ issues.
During a press conference held in Monrovia on Monday, Bishop Quire emphatically denied the claims of same-sex marriage within the church, making his position clear: “I am not a gay Bishop; I will not allow gay business in the Church.” He went on to reaffirm that same-sex marriage stands in stark contrast to both Liberian law and the deeply rooted traditional values of the church’s membership.
The bishop’s statement comes as religious communities worldwide continue to grapple with evolving societal views on LGBTQ+ rights. The United Methodist Church has faced significant internal divisions since the 2020 UMC convention in the United States lifted the ban on same-sex marriage and allowed the ordination of openly gay bishops. These developments have led to theological rifts, with some congregations embracing the changes and others, like UMC Liberia, holding fast to traditional biblical interpretations.
Bishop Quire acknowledged the challenges churches face as they navigate these complex social issues, noting that the global Methodist community is at a crossroads. To address these matters within Liberia, the bishop announced plans to hold a special convention in early 2025 to further clarify UMC Liberia’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues and ensure that the church’s traditional beliefs remain intact.
As debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights continue to intensify within religious institutions, the UMC in Liberia remains resolute in its rejection of same-sex marriage, signaling a potential for deeper divisions within the global church. Bishop Quire’s vocal stand serves as a testament to the church’s commitment to upholding its interpretation of scripture while setting the stage for broader discussions on how the church can move forward in unity amid these contentious issues.
The coming months will be pivotal for UMC Liberia, as it seeks to navigate these challenges with clarity and maintain its adherence to its longstanding values.