MY FELLOW UNITED METHODIST & LIBERIANS:
Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr.
Greetings
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I write you today as your Bishop, with my heart brimming with gratitude and hope in the wake of the just concluded 2020 postponed General Conference of the United Methodist Church, your Church, and my Church, which was held in Charlotte, NC, in the United States of America, from April 23rd thru May 4, 2024.
Delegates convened at this 2020 postponed General Conference from the four corners of the World, bringing together our worldwide United Methodist family, and legislated intensely under the leading of the Holy Spirit, who guided us in discerning the future path of our beloved denomination (The United Methodist Church).
In the midst of our diverse perspectives and experiences, we found common ground in our commitment to unity, peace, and the proclamation of the Gospel. With humanity and prayerful consideration, we made significant decisions aimed at fostering a more inclusive and contextualized ministry for jurisdictional (America) and Central Conferences (Africa, Europe, Philippines) to serve our church and worship our God.
One of the pivotal decisions of this General Conference was the approval of legislation for the REGIONALIZATION of our denomination. This strategic restructuring is not merely a bureaucratic endeavor, rather, it is a bold step towards honoring the rich diversity of our United Methodist family while remaining steadfast in our mission and faith essentials.
REGIONALIZATION will enable us to adapt our ministry to the unique contexts and needs of different geographical regions, without losing sight of our shared identity and purpose. As the President of the Council of Bishops, Bishop Tracy S. Malone beautifully articulated, “it is about being contextual in ministry while remaining connected around the mission and essentials of our faith.” This approach not only honors our global identity but also empowers each region to have a greater missional impact.
However, let us approach this journey with humility, peace, and above all, love for one another. Change can be challenging, and it is natural for us to have questions and concerns. Yet, let us remember that our unity in Christ transcends any organization structure. As we navigate this transition, let us remain united in prayer, supporting one another with grace and understanding.
Proverbs 3:5-6, tell us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
may the Holy Spirit continue to guide us. May our witness shine brightly, illuminating the world with the love and compassion of Christ. And may the God of peace fill our hearts with hope and courage for the journey ahead.
Therefore, I declare a 3-day of fast and prayer by all United Methodists and local congregations upon receipt of this communication, immediately following the Mothers’ Day Celebration from May 15 through May 18, 2024.
Let me extend my thanks and appreciation to all the delegates from the Liberia Episcopal Area under the leadership of Rev. Jerry P. Kulah as head and our own Conference Lay Leader, Cllr. Dr. Tolbert G. Nyenswah as co-head respectively, for ably representing Africa in general and the Liberia Episcopal Area in particular.
Now and henceforth, let me caution every well-meaning United Methodists to desist from publishing derogatory articles in the media (social, print, and electronic) in the name of The United Methodist Church!! Let all those who are involved take due not and be cognizant of the consequences.
It is my hope and prayers that God Almighty will hear our prayers and keep us together as people called United Methodist!
May God Almighty Bless Us All and Save the Future of the Church!
Yours in His Services
Resident Bishop
Liberia Area, The United Methodist Church
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr. outcome from the General Conference in Charlotte, NC
