The Senate, through its Joint Committee on Internal Affairs, Judiciary, and Defense and Security, has intensified its investigation into the allegation and crisis of same-sex marriage within the Methodist Church in Liberia.
The committee has concluded the second phase of its mediatory engagement, aiming to address the internal dispute within the United Methodist Church (UMC) and foster a peaceful resolution.
The hearing brought together key figures, including Associate Lay Leader Madam Thelrasa Daies, Chancellor Cllr. Madina Wesseh, Mr. Milton Weeks, Dr. Roland Clark, Chancellor Cllr. Ruth Jappy, Vice President of the United Methodist University Rev. Dr. George Wheagba, and Director of Youth At-Risk Rev. Caleb S. G. Dormah. However, Bishop Samuel Quire was absent due to commitments related to the upcoming convocation ceremony of the United Methodist University.
During the proceedings, both parties agreed to refrain from making public or private statements that could escalate tensions. Additionally, a review will explore internal dispute-resolution mechanisms to bring the factions together. The Senate Joint Committee also plans to establish an ad hoc committee to facilitate a roundtable discussion between delegations from the UMC and the Global Methodist Church in hopes of achieving a peaceful resolution.
The Senate initiated its hearings on March 7, 2025, following directives from the full plenary of the Liberian Senate. These engagements aim to ensure peaceful coexistence within the religious community while safeguarding public order and security.
Last week, the Senate summoned Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh and key UMC leaders to address concerns about the government’s stance on the ongoing church dispute. The move came after River Cess County Senator Wellington Smith raised alarms over a growing divide within the UMC, triggered by internal conflict surrounding same-sex marriage.
In a communication to the Senate, Senator Smith emphasized that a split between two factions has exacerbated the crisis within the UMC. One faction, led by Rev. Dr. Jerry Kulah, strongly opposes Bishop Samuel Quire, accusing him of endorsing same-sex marriage. This division has reportedly led to disruptions and violence within the church, raising concerns about broader social implications. Senator Smith questioned whether the government’s silence on the matter could be seen as tacit approval or a failure to uphold Liberia’s laws on marriage.
Liberia’s Domestic Relations Law, Title 9, explicitly defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Senator Smith expressed concern that the government’s inaction, particularly in the face of the church’s internal conflict, could be interpreted as an endorsement of same-sex marriage, contradicting the nation’s legal framework.
During Tuesday’s Senate session, Senator Smith posed two critical questions: whether same-sex marriages are taking place within the UMC and whether the government’s silence on the matter could be construed as support for practices that defy Liberian law.
“My concern is whether the practice of same-sex marriage is ongoing in the church,” Senator Smith stated. “And given the confusion this issue has caused within the church, I want to know if the government’s silence indicates endorsement.”
In response, the Senate Plenary voted to summon Justice Minister Tweh and UMC leaders for a public hearing set for Thursday.
