United Methodist Church (UMC) Liberia members staged a peaceful protest on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 12th Street, Sinkor, voicing their discontent with Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr.
The protesters oppose the bishop’s advocacy for regionalization within the UMC, a plan they fear could undermine the autonomy and influence of African churches.
The proposed regionalization policy, approved at the UMC General Conference and slated for discussion at the Liberia Annual Conference, seeks to grant global UMC branches greater governance flexibility.
Critics, however, argue that it could deepen divisions by enabling controversial practices, such as same-sex marriage, in some regions while others remain opposed.
“We feel this push for regionalization is not in the best interest of the church in Liberia. It threatens to divide us and weaken our values,” one protester remarked.
Protesters also accused Bishop Quire of disregarding advice from key church stakeholders and leaders, including Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman and the Liberia Council of Churches, who suggested returning to the status quo ante to maintain unity.
The bishop has also come under scrutiny for suspending a pastor who preached against same-sex marriage, further fueling discontent among church members. Demonstrators, carrying placards and chanting slogans, called for greater inclusivity and accountability in church leadership.
Despite mounting criticism, Bishop Quire has yet to respond to the concerns or calls for a change in his leadership approach. This protest underscores the growing tensions within UMC Liberia as members grapple with the implications of regionalization and leadership challenges.
