MONROVIA, LIBERIA — In a powerful call for national healing, Bishop Kortu K. Brown has commended the Boakai administration for its recent efforts to rebury the remains of former leaders of Liberia who lost their lives during various phases of the country’s tumultuous history. The remains, previously buried in mass graves or left unidentified, have finally been accorded the respect they deserve, a gesture Bishop Brown describes as “an appreciable first step” on the long road to reconciling a divided nation.
Speaking during a weeklong Thanksgiving and Intercessory Prayer service at the New Water in the Desert Assembly Apostolic Pentecostal Church International in Brewerville, Montserrado County, on June 30, 2025, Bishop Brown expressed deep sympathy for the families who have suffered the loss of loved ones over the past five decades amid the country’s social upheavals. “As we struggle to reconcile our broken and shattered nation, we must recognize and thank the Boakai administration for these efforts,” he stated.
Emphasizing the urgency of reconciliation, Bishop Brown articulated that true healing must occur in three pivotal phases. “First, we must confront our horrific past and aim to heal the deep wounds inflicted by our senseless crises,” he asserted.
The second phase, according to the Bishop, involves addressing the current challenges that obstruct healing and reconciliation, many of which stem from the ongoing struggle to establish a multi-party democracy and uphold the rule of law. He warned of the difficulties in fostering peaceful coexistence alongside transparency, accountability, and combating corruption.
Reflecting on the closely contested presidential and legislative elections of October 2023, Bishop Brown highlighted that a victory at the polls must translate into a victory for peace as well. “We must make efforts to unite the country rather than govern with bigotry and disregard for differing opinions, even if they come from the opposition,” he cautioned.
Lastly, Bishop Brown underscored the importance of addressing potential threats to future peace and stability. He warned, “If we continue to conduct ourselves in ways reminiscent of our past mistakes, the gains we strive to achieve in healing will be undermined.”
The Bishop appealed for a unified approach, urging Liberians to reject hate, dishonesty, and arrogance in governance contained in a sermon delivered from Hebrew 13: 8. “We must ensure that the economic challenges facing ordinary Liberians are prioritized,” he said, calling for decisions that benefit the country as a whole rather than for personal glory.
As Liberia stands at a crossroads, Bishop Brown’s message resonates—through acknowledgment of its past and commitment to an inclusive future, the country can pave its way toward lasting reconciliation and development.
