The Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference calls for calm amid the controversy that has rocked the church over same-sex allegations.
By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Monrovia, Liberia, March 3, 2025—The Resident Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference, Samuel Quire, is taking a firm stance on the traditional definition of marriage amid an ongoing split within the United Methodist Church (UMC) over same-sex marriage.
Bishop Quire’s reaffirmation of traditional marriage in Monrovia reinforces the stance of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia. “Marriage is a sacred union between a man and a woman”, Quire declared.
The UMC has been experiencing deep divisions on this issue, with some congregations and regional conferences choosing to disaffiliate due to differing views on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ clergy.
Like many branches in Africa, Liberia’s UMC has generally upheld a conservative theological stance on marriage and sexuality. Bishop Quire’s reaffirmation of traditional marriage aligns with the broader sentiment of many African UMC churches, which have resisted the more progressive changes being embraced by some UMC conferences in the U.S. and Europe.
This debate has been a key factor in the formation of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), a new denomination that emerged as conservative congregations split from the UMC over disagreements on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ ordination.
Bishop Quire’s statement reflects the deep theological and cultural divide within the global United Methodist Church (UMC) over same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
“Marriage must align with biblical teachings and the laws of our nation,” Bishop Quire maintains. His emphasis on this underscores the conservative position of many African UMC branches, where traditional views on marriage are widely upheld.
The schism within the UMC has led to significant departures, particularly with the formation of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), which was established as a more conservative alternative for congregations opposed to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Meanwhile, more progressive UMC conferences, especially in the U.S. and Europe, continue to push for greater inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in marriage and ordination.
This division highlights broader tensions between cultural contexts, theological interpretations, and evolving social norms.
Bishop Quire’s call for unity and reassurance of security for UMC places of worship suggests that tensions over the global schism have been felt locally, but the church in Liberia is striving to maintain stability.
His emphasis on traditional Christian values aligns with the broader stance of many African Methodist communities, which have remained steadfast in their opposition to same-sex marriage.
Despite the international divide, his message indicates a commitment to the church’s core mission, making disciples and teaching biblical principles. By urging local churches to focus on worship and spiritual responsibilities, he seems to be steering attention away from the controversy and toward maintaining the church’s role in the community.
It will be interesting to see how the UMC in Liberia navigates its relationship with the global denomination in the coming years. Editing by Jonathan Browne
