GBARNGA, Bong – The Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC) has passed a series of key resolutions at its 192nd Annual Session, reaffirming its doctrinal stance on marriage, safeguarding church properties, and disassociating itself from a controversial letter by United Methodist Women leaders.
By Siaway T. Miapue, contributing writer
Defending Traditional Marriage
One of the most notable resolutions reaffirms the Church’s commitment to the traditional definition of marriage, aligning with Biblical principles and Liberia’s civil laws. The amendment, approved by the West Africa Central Conference (WACC) and incorporated into The Book of Discipline (2020/2024), states that marriage within the UMC in West Africa is strictly between a man and a woman.
According to the resolution, the LAC/UMC affirms that “Marriage is between a man and a woman in accordance with both Biblical principles and Liberia’s civil laws.” This reaffirmation was made with a clear call for member churches to “uphold this stance and align with the legal protection of the ‘United Methodist Church’ name and the Cross and Flame emblem.”
The Cross and Flame emblem, deeply rooted in UMC traditions, represents Jesus Christ (the Cross) and the Holy Spirit (the Flame), symbolizing the birth of the Christian Church on Pentecost and John Wesley’s spiritual awakening in 1738. As noted in the release, the emblem “holds historical significance and is legally registered as a trademark in Liberia.”
Protecting Church Properties Amid Growing Concerns
In a move to safeguard its assets, the LAC/UMC has empowered its Board of Trustees to take legal actions to protect and recover church properties across Liberia’s 15 counties and 20 church districts. The resolution grants the Board authority to work with legal entities to ensure full compliance with Liberia’s property laws.
The release emphasized that the LAC/UMC is “committed to protecting the physical and spiritual legacy of the Church, and the Board of Trustees has been empowered to take legal action where necessary.” The Church has also allocated special funds to aid in these efforts, with periodic audits to ensure accountability and transparency. “Special funds will be designated for legal actions and regular audits will ensure transparency in the recovery and safeguarding of church properties,” the resolution states.
United Methodist Women Leaders Under Scrutiny
The 192nd Annual Session also addressed internal divisions within the United Methodist Women (UMW). The conference passed a resolution distancing itself from a controversial letter penned by Mother Muriel V. Nelson and Ophelia J. S. Kennedy, President and Secretary General of the UMW.
In the resolution, the Church condemned the letter, stating, “The views expressed in the letter by individuals in leadership within the United Methodist Women do not reflect the majority of our members. We strongly condemn any actions that seek to divide the Church or promote other denominational interests.”
It further called for these individuals to “leave peacefully, as UMC policy prohibits dual membership.” The statement added, “We are committed to unity, and any member or leader whose actions contradict our values will be held accountable.”
An investigation has been launched into the actions of Nelson and Kennedy. The release states, “A thorough investigation into the actions of Mother Nelson and Ms. Kennedy will be conducted, and until the conclusion of this process, they will remain temporarily suspended.” The resolution confirmed that the next officers in line would take over the affairs of the United Methodist Women.
A Response to Ongoing UMC Divisions
These resolutions come at a critical time for the global United Methodist Church (UMC), which has faced increasing divisions over LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2024, the UMC removed a provision that labeled homosexuality as incompatible with Christian teaching, and also eliminated penalties for ministers who officiate same-sex weddings. The decision has drawn sharp backlash from African UMC conferences, including Liberia’s.
Under the leadership of Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., the LAC/UMC has reassured its members that it does not support same-sex marriage. The resolution clearly states, “We stand firmly in our belief that marriage is between a man and a woman, and we reject any efforts to redefine this sacred union within our Church.”
Church leaders hope this reaffirmation of marriage as a union between a man and a woman will clarify the Church’s stance and prevent further internal rifts. “This reaffirmation is vital to preserving our doctrinal integrity and helping to resolve internal divisions within the Church,” the resolution concluded.
Commitment to Faith, Integrity, and Stewardship
The Liberia Annual Conference of the UMC has reiterated its commitment to Biblical teachings, good governance, and responsible stewardship. The resolutions passed at the 192nd Annual Session are aimed at preserving the Church’s doctrinal integrity, protecting its heritage, and ensuring that its legal and spiritual obligations remain intact for future generations.
“We remain steadfast in our dedication to Biblical teachings, good governance, and the stewardship of the Church’s resources,” the release states. “These resolutions are steps toward preserving the values and the mission of the United Methodist Church in Liberia.”
