By: Gbayor Charles Gbayor | UM News Gbarnga
Gbarnga, Bong County: The Liberia Annual Conference (LAC) of the United Methodist Church has reaffirmed its position on the definition of marriage, confirming that it remains between a man and a woman in accordance with biblical standards and national laws. The decision was made during the 192nd session of the LAC, which convened in Gbarnga, Central Liberia, from February 10-16, 2025.
In a move that aligns with the West Africa Central Conference (WACC), members of the Liberia Annual Conference unanimously voted to endorse the WACC’s definition of marriage. This amendment, made during a WACC sitting in Accra, Ghana, asserts that marriage for the United Methodist Church in West Africa must be a union between a man and a woman. The conference further stipulated that such unions should be in accordance with through the issuance of a marriage certificate.
The reaffirmation of this stance by the Liberia Annual Conference underscores the church’s commitment to upholding traditional biblical values, aligning with both the teachings of the Christian faith and the laws of Liberia. The resolution passed in Gbarnga is consistent with similar decisions made in past sessions of the Liberia Annual Conference, specifically from the 187th through the 191st sessions, where the church has consistently supported the traditional definition of marriage.
Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., President of the Liberia Annual Conference, expressed his delight about the decision reached by the Libeiria Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church , emphasizing the importance of maintaining the church’s stance on marriage in accordance with biblical teachings. “We reaffirm our historical commitment to upholding the sacred union between a man and a woman,” Bishop Quire remarked. “This decision not only aligns with our faith but also respects the cultural values and traditions of Liberia but also highlights my consistency since 2004where,I mentioned we will not licensee people to hell.”
The resolution further ensures that the church will continue to adhere to national, state, and local laws regarding marriage, reinforcing the United Methodist Church’s compliance with the legal framework in which it operates. The adoption of this amendment signals the church’s desire to remain in harmony with both biblical teachings and Liberia’s civil marriage laws.
Commitment to Church Property Protection
Alongside the reaffirmation of marriage, the Liberia Annual Conference overwhelmingly voted to empower the Board of Trustees to act in close consultation with the office of the Chancellors and other relevant entities to protect and manage the church’s property across Liberia. The resolution grants the Board of Trustees the authority to ensure the full protection, recovery, possession, or repossession of church properties, in accordance with the trust clause and Liberia’s governing laws.
The church’s commitment to safeguarding its assets is particularly significant in light of recent challenges faced by the United Methodist Church in Liberia. By placing a focus on the protection of its properties within the church’s 20 districts and 2 circuits, the LAC is sending a strong message about the importance of maintaining its presence and influence throughout Liberia.
“This resolution speaks to our unwavering commitment to the church’s legacy and its presence in every corner of Liberia,” Bishop Quire explained. “We will not allow any external forces to undermine the work we have done and continue to do for the Lord.”
Upholding Liberia’s Cultural and Legal Framework
The Liberia Annual Conference’s decision to reaffirm the biblical definition of marriage is also a reflection of the cultural values and traditions that shape the nation. Liberia, with its strong ties to Christianity and deep-rooted respect for cultural norms, has seen the church play a pivotal role in the moral and spiritual life of its citizens. The LAC’s vote demonstrates its dedication to preserving the integrity of marriage as an institution while ensuring its continued alignment with both biblical teachings and the laws of Liberia.
The church’s adherence to these principles is expected to have far-reaching implications for the community, as it reinforces the importance of traditional values in the face of global discussions about marriage and family structures.
Looking Ahead
As the Liberia Annual Conference continues its work in shaping the future of the church, the decision made at the 192nd session is seen as a critical step in preserving the church’s foundational values. With a strong commitment to upholding biblical standards, protecting church properties, and promoting youth empowerment, the church is poised to continue its mission in Liberia and beyond.
The reaffirmation of marriage between a man and a woman, as well as the church’s proactive approach to safeguarding its assets, signals a clear path forward for the Liberia Annual Conference as it seeks to strengthen its role in both the spiritual and social life of the nation.