The turmoil of the United Methodist Church in Liberia over the endorsement of same-sex marriage and the situation exacerbated at the Church’s just-ended 192nd Annual Conference in Gbarnga.
The rift led to the emergence of a breakaway group, the Liberia United Methodists for Biblical Christianity (LUMBC)–anti-regionalization faction convenes a conference at the Gbarnga Administrative Building with UMC’s Bishop Samuel Quire, Jr., group at different locations.
The new group, which split from the mother body at the beginning of the conference, emphasizes adherence to traditional biblical teachings and opposes practices such as same-sex marriage.
Rev. Dr. Jerry P. Kulah, speaking on behalf of the new group, known as the Liberia United Methodist for Biblical Christianity (LUMBIC), explained that their decision was influenced by what they see as the UMC’s endorsement of practices contrary to the biblical beliefs.
Dr. Kulah emphasized that the UMC has historically played a vital role in guiding individuals to personal faith and supporting community development in Liberia.
However, he expressed concern over the UMC’s stance on marriage and sexuality, stating that they view marriage as a union exclusively between a man and a woman, based on biblical teachings.
He criticized the UMC for allegedly incorporating LGBTQ individuals into church leadership, claiming that this shift conflicts with Christian values.
Dr. Kulah pointed to recent changes in UMC policy that allow for the ordination of LGBTQIA+ clergy, which he believes undermines the church’s mission.
“With over 100 local churches, we hereby birth the Global Methodist Church (GMC) as the new Wesleyan Methodist Denomination in Liberia on this fourteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord, Jesus Christ. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the blessed Holy Spirit,” Kulah emphasized.
Dr. Kulah affirmed their commitment to the biblical beliefs and teachings of the Holy Scripture, stating they are prepared for any legal challenges that may arise from their separation from the UMC.
Therefore, “We, the members and leaders of the Liberia United Methodist for Biblical Christianity (LUMBIC) feel that we can no longer, in good conscience, remain a part of denominations that compromise the world of God, and that endorses sinful social, cultural practices that clearly contradict the scripture,” Reverend Dr. Jerry P. Kulah noted.
He said that based on their unflinching commitment to the authority of the scripture and loyalty to Jesus Christ as their savior and lord, they have decided to obey God rather than an institution called the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
“We want to help many to come to faith in Jesus Christ and to nurture them to grow into mature Christians who will serve God in the world and through the Church. We do not believe we can accomplish such a mission of the Great Commission if we remain in the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church,” he stressed.
Rev. Dr. Kulah emphasized that they also want to spread scriptural holiness across the globe.
“In our worship in this new denomination, we desire to surrender to and be fully devoted to one God-the, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” Kulah added.
The formation of the Global Methodist Church highlights ongoing tensions within the Methodist community, as differing views on sexuality continue to spark debate and division among congregations worldwide.
