By Gbayor Charles Gbayor l UM Newsroom
Resident Bishop urges members to stay strong, live for Christ, and work together as United Methodists
Harrisburg, Liberia : The Resident Bishop of the Liberia Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church, Rev. Dr. Samuel J. Quire Jr., on Sunday visited the Saint Paul River Conference District and worshiped with members of St. John United Methodist Church.
Bishop Quire emphasized the importance of unity within the church, reminding congregants that “in unity, there is strength.” Addressing recent challenges within the global United Methodist Church, he reassured members that despite differing opinions, “we are still united.”
“St. John UMC cannot be abandoned,” Bishop Quire declared. “This church holds a special place in my heart, and I am committed to standing with you in faith and fellowship.”
To illustrate the power of unity, the Bishop shared a story about a Chinese man with seven children. Near the end of his life, the man gave them a bundle of seven sticks tied together and asked them to break it. None could. But when the sticks were separated, each was easily broken. “So it is with the church,” Bishop Quire said. “When we stand together, we are unbreakable; divided, we are easily overcome.”
He went on to recount the historical emergence of The United Methodist Church, born from the union of various denominations into one global fellowship, urging members to live out their calling as “United Methodist Christians who live for Christ.”
Bishop Quire also addressed ongoing disputes over church property, noting that some individuals who broke away from The United Methodist Church are now claiming Methodist Episcopal properties. He called for prayer, steadfastness, and unity in the face of such challenges.
Concluding his message, Bishop Quire made a heartfelt appeal: “Stay United Methodist, and let’s work together to advance God’s kingdom through making the United Methodist Church mission making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world .”
The worship service was marked by joyful singing, heartfelt prayers, and a renewed sense of commitment among members to the mission and vision of the church.