In light of rising concerns surrounding same-sex marriage within the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia, Bishop Samuel J. Quire, the head of the UMC annual conference in Liberia, has publicly clarified the church’s position in Liberia.
“Our church is not a gay church,” he stated firmly during a press conference on October 14, 2024.
According to him, Liberia, as a regional body has not and will not signed unto same sex marriage as it has been lifted in the United Methodist Church at the global level.
Bishop Quire while addressing the on-going debate sparked by discussions at the recent General Conference held in the United States from April 23 to May 3, urged their congregants to remain calm while the church navigated the issue.
“I made a statement to all members of the church to remain calm and informed them of the decisions taken at the general conference,” he explained.
In a subsequent meeting organized by the Liberia National Police, Bishop Quire, alongside lawmakers and representatives from the Council of Churches, sought to address misinformation circulating on social media about the UMC’s stance.
He reiterated that the UMC in Liberia remains opposed to same-sex marriage and that such practices are illegal in the country.
“The United Methodist Church in Liberia is united and firmly holds that there will be no gay bishops or same-sex marriages here,” Bishop Quire asserted.
He emphasized that the church has never attempted to conduct same-sex marriages in Liberia, given the strong cultural and legal opposition.
The bishop also touched on the concept of regionalization introduced by the general conference, which allows different regions to establish their own policies.
Despite potential misunderstandings, he assured attendees that the UMC in Liberia would uphold its principles and abide by national laws, stating, “We have 18 months to discuss and ratify these matters during our annual conference.”
The dialogue included support from Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman and various lawmakers, reinforcing the church’s commitment against the acceptance of same-sex practices in Liberia.
Tensions flared within the UMC following the recent dismissal of Rev. Leo T. Mayson, a prominent opponent of same-sex marriage. Protests erupted in New Georgia on October 13, as congregants expressed their dissent over the bishop’s leadership changes, fearing a shift towards acceptance of LGBTQ+ issues in a church where such practices are largely condemned.
Many church members criticized Bishop Quire for allegedly expelling clergymen who oppose homosexuality. Rev. Mayson is the second pastor dismissed under these circumstances, following Pastor Elijah Dajue, who also spoke out against the church’s direction.
Bishop Quire’s recent statements have left many within the UMC questioning their place in a church they believe is moving away from its foundational principles.
As protests continue, the impact of these developments on the local congregation and the broader United Methodist Church in Liberia remains uncertain.
