— Several pastors barred as courts issue stay order
Several pastors of the United Methodist Church have been barred from their activities within the church as Gardnersville and Omega Magisterial Courts issue a stay order on their actions, respectively.
The internal conflict within the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia has intensified leading to legal intervention aimed at restoring order between church leaders and dissenting pastors.
The stay order targets several pastors accused of defying the church’s leadership, including Rev. Leo Mason, Pastor Yah Gorgboyee of UMC New Georgia, Rev. Kenneth Jackson of the 72nd UMC in Paynesville, and Rev. Allen Paye of John Warner UMC in Mount Barclay.
This legal intervention, prompted by complaints from UMC authorities, aims to restore order amidst escalating tensions between church leaders and dissenting pastors.
These pastors are restricted from accessing church properties and engaging in church-related activities pending the resolution of ongoing court conferences.
This legal intervention, prompted by complaints from UMC authorities, aims to restore order amidst escalating tensions between church leaders and dissenting pastors.
This action comes in response to allegations of insubordination, unauthorized church gatherings, and promoting dissent among congregations, which were reported by the UMC leadership under Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr.
Background of the Conflict
The rift within the UMC has been ongoing for months, revolving around church governance, accountability, and doctrinal interpretations. Disagreements escalated when Bishop Quire suspended four pastors for refusing to attend a meeting called by the Board of Ordained Ministries, leading to their suspension based on the Methodist Book of Discipline.
Allegations related to the endorsement of practices contrary to traditional Christian teachings, such as the legalization of homosexuality, have further fueled the discord within the UMC.
However, Bishop Quire has emphasized that the UMC in Liberia does not endorse such practices, calling for a better understanding of the church’s doctrines. Legal proceedings are being conducted to restore church unity and discipline, with warnings issued to pastors violating court orders.
Legal Implications and Enforcement
Rev. Cllr. J. Abel Knight, Associate Director for Legal Affairs at UMC’s Human Rights Department, emphasized that the legal proceedings are aimed at preserving church unity and discipline. He warned that any pastor violating the court’s order would face legal consequences.
“This is not just a legal issue but one deeply rooted in faith and church governance,” Cllr. Knight stated. “Respecting the Bishop’s authority is paramount to maintaining the church’s structure and unity.”
Mixed Reactions among Congregations
The stay order has elicited mixed reactions from UMC members. While some support the church leadership’s decision to take legal action as a means to enforce discipline, others believe it could stifle healthy dialogue and dissent within the church.
“I believe the church should prioritize reconciliation over legal battles, but respect for authority is essential,” shared one concerned member who preferred to remain anonymous. “We need to resolve our differences with love and unity as Christ teaches us.”
Calls for mediation and reconciliation
As the UMC navigates this crisis, Bishop Samuel J. Quire, Jr. has on several occasions told UMC members that no Special Session or Meeting will be held.
“No Special Session will be held, whatever anyone or group has to discuss should be taken to the Annual Conference and it should be in line with the Conferences agenda,” Bishop Quire declared.
Church elders, including representatives from the Liberia Council of Churches, have advocated for a mediation process involving neutral parties. However, these efforts have yet to yield tangible results.
Bishop Quire has reiterated his commitment to resolving the conflict in a manner that aligns with the church’s values. He has emphasized the need for dialogue and unity, urging members to remain steadfast in their faith.
“You can’t be a member of the Church and fighting to destroy the Church. “If you want to leave, leave; but stop defying the authority of the Church,” Bishop Quire said.
The path forward
The stay order against defiant pastors reflects the UMC leadership’s resolve to uphold its authority and discipline. However, the path to reconciliation remains challenging as both sides hold firmly to their positions. As legal proceedings continue, many church members hope for a peaceful resolution that will allow the UMC in Liberia to refocus on its mission of faith and service.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future direction of the UMC in Liberia. With court conferences ongoing and the church community divided, the outcome of this conflict could have lasting implications for the church’s unity and mission.
The UMC leadership is encouraged to explore avenues for dialogue and healing, ensuring that the church emerges stronger and more united in its spiritual journey.
The enforcement of these measures reflects the church’s commitment to upholding authority and structure, although responses from congregations vary. Despite calls for mediation and reconciliation, tangible progress has yet to be made.
Efforts to resolve the conflict remain ongoing, with the hope that the UMC in Liberia can refocus on its mission of faith and service. The church community faces a critical period where decisions made will impact its unity and mission moving forward.
