Buchanan – In a move to promote governance, inclusivity, and spiritual growth, the United Methodist Church Liberia Annual Conference (UMC/LAC) held a groundbreaking two-day Regionalization Rectification Workshop.
The workshop, hosted at the First United Methodist Church in Grand Bassa District from November 29–30, 2024, gathered an impressive array of church leaders, district superintendents, lay representatives, and members from across Liberia.
Banners displayed at the event affirmed the church’s traditional beliefs, with messages such as: “The United Methodist Church of Liberia believes in the Bible and holds to traditional practices” and “The United Methodist Church is not a gay church, and we reject same-sex marriage.”
Delegates hailed from key districts, including Kakata-Farmington, Grand Bassa, St. John, River Cess, and Morweh. Participants represented various groups such as youth, women, men, clergy, young adults, and district superintendents, reflecting the UMC’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that every voice is heard.
The dialogue addressed crucial topics, including the upcoming General Conference 2024, the church’s position on regionalization, and Liberia’s legal and spiritual stance on issues like same-sex marriage. Biblical perspectives enriched these discussions, guiding participants to align their faith with practical solutions to contemporary challenges.
In his opening remarks, Jefferson B. Knight, facilitator of the UMC/LAC Taskforce and Human Rights Monitor, highlighted the transformative potential of regionalization. “This process isn’t just about policy adjustments; it’s about empowering our districts, celebrating our diversity, and strengthening our collective mission to serve God and our communities,” he said.
Knight emphasized that regionalization would help the church maintain its unity. “This dialogue is very educative and provides a foundation for regionalized worship according to our tradition, culture, and constitution. We reject same-sex marriage; the UMC is not a gay church.”
Rev. Dr. Samuel K. Karyeah, Research Officer at the Bishop’s Office, discussed the legal and spiritual implications of regionalization, urging participants to embrace its opportunities. “Our discussions here today will shape the future of our church and inspire a new era of accountability and unity,” he said.
Rev. Caleb Dormah, Chairman of the Taskforce on Regionalization Rectification, reinforced the importance of the initiative. “Our decision will help save the UMC and ensure we remain united. Let’s support regionalization,” he noted.
Interactive group sessions allowed delegates to share district perspectives and propose strategies for implementing regionalization while addressing unique challenges. The second day was action-oriented, focusing on practical steps for rectifying regionalization and concluding with spirited evaluations and resolutions for adoption.
Lay Preacher Ruth Kono Fred, a workshop facilitator, praised the event’s spirit of unity. “This workshop showcases the strength of our church family. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive UMC that meets the needs of all its members,” she said.
Participants expressed gratitude for the initiative, with one noting, “We are grateful for this dialogue because it prepares us for conversations in our districts and churches.” Another remarked, “Nobody brought us to the UMC, and no one can force us to leave unless we choose to. We will remain UMC.”
The workshop concluded with recommendations to be forwarded to the United Methodist Church’s General Conference for consideration. Additional dialogues have already been held in Pleebo, Maryland, and Gbarnga, Bong Counties to prepare for the Annual Conference in February, where a democratic vote on regionalization will take place.
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