United Methodist Bishop emeritus Arthur F. Kulah appeals for forgiveness over past actions here, especially against incumbent Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr.
By Lincoln G. Peters
Monrovia, Liberia, December 20, 2024- Retired United Methodist Church (UMC) Bishop Arthur F. Kulah has made a heartfelt appeal for forgiveness from Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr and his wife, expressing deep regret over past actions that have caused division and pain within the United Methodist church.
Bishop Kulah, who spent decades in service as a dedicated pastor and advocate for peace and reconciliation, acknowledges the hurt caused by his actions.
He calls for unity and healing, urging those he may have wronged to accept his sincere apology and join him in working toward building a more harmonious future.
He emphasizes the importance of grace, understanding, and the power of forgiveness in mending broken relationships.
“I am truly sorry for my mistakes, and I ask for your forgiveness. I hope we can move forward in love and cooperation, as we have always been a family bound by faith,” Dr. Kulah says in a message here, adding, “No one is perfect. Still, through forgiveness, we can grow stronger as individuals and as a community.”
His appeal for forgiveness has resonated with many within the UMC and the wider Liberian community, who have praised his humility and willingness to own up to his past.
Church leaders have commended the former minister for his courage, with several noting that his actions reflect the core Christian values of repentance and reconciliation.
In response, Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire. Jr. accepted the apology and turned a new page.
“We have forgiven you and we are glad that you are back with the United Methodist Church through this time and struggle”, he notes.
Dr. Kulah, in his recent public statements, described the Resident Bishop of the United Methodist Church, Samuel Jerome Quire, as the worst Bishop in the history of the Church, saying, “He is a dictator and doesn’t listen to advice.”
His remarks sparked discussions in the United Methodist Church with mixed reactions; some say the statement by Bishop Emeritus was bad and bent on breaking the church apart, while others applaud the statement.
The retired Bishop’s apology comes at a time when the UMC is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on rebuilding trust and strengthening relationships among its members.
Many are hopeful that Kulah’s call for forgiveness will catalyze peace and renewal in both the church and broader society. Editing by Jonathan Browne
