Crisis in the United Methodists church deepening as Superintendent of the Jorquelleh District Conference allegedly ordered the arrest of some of their members in Bong.
By: Edwin N. Khakie
Gbarnga, Bong County-February 24, 2025/ The District Superintendent of the Jorquelleh District Conference Rev. Anthony Karpee and the Associate Pastor of the Jorquelleh Community United Methodist Church have allegedly ordered the arrest of some of their members for reportedly standing against “regionalization.”
The District Superintendent of the Jorquelleh District Conference, Rev. Anthony Karpee, and the Associate Pastor of the Jorquelleh Community United Methodist Church, Rev. George Gargboh have been accused of ordering the arrests of members Joseph Voker and David T Dolo.
The arrested men have been charged with “disrupting public order” and are currently being held at the Gbarnga Central Prison.
According to the two church leaders, the two men are obstructing the work of the church by breaking down the church signboard and, at the same time, beating the Associate Pastor.
The regionalization plan, which would merge the Jorquelleh District with two other districts, has been met with resistance from some members who feel that it would negatively impact their local church and community.
The arrests have sparked outrage among church members, with many calling for the immediate release of the detained members.
Some have accused the church leaders of using intimidation and force to push their gay or same-sex marriage agenda.
In response to the allegations, Rev. Karpee and Rev. Gargboh told journalists that they were not in the position to respond to the allegation.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions within the United Methodist Church in Liberia over the proposed regionalization plan.
While some see the plan as a way to strengthen the church and improve efficiency, others are concerned about the potential impact on local communities and traditions.
The Liberian government has been urged to intervene, ensure the fair treatment of the arrested members, and address the underlying issues within the United Methodist church in Liberia. Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
