‘The United Methodist Church has ‘crossed the road'” – women leadership breaks away

Published: February 11, 2025

MONROVIA – The Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC) is facing a deepening crisis as the Conference United Methodist Women (CUMW) has publicly rejected the leadership of Bishop Samuel J. Quire, Jr. The women’s group accuses the bishop of supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion, regionalization, and governance reforms that they claim undermine the church’s unity and longstanding traditions.

In a strongly worded letter addressed to Bishop Quire, the CUMW denounced the decisions of the 2020/2024 General Conference, which redefined marriage, approved same-sex unions, and restructured church governance. The women accused the bishop of suppressing dissenting voices, unlawfully suspending clergy and lay members, and fostering division within the denomination.

“The United Methodist Church is no longer at the cross-road, rather it has ‘crossed the road’. We the women of the church must speak out and stand up,” the CUMW declared. In the Liberian palance, ‘crossing the road’ means joining homosexuality.

Doctrinal Disputes and Allegations of Suppression

The women’s group expressed strong opposition to what they describe as an imposed agenda that violates biblical principles.

“We reject the decision of the 2020/2024 General Conference to change the definition of marriage, legalize homosexuality in the church, approve same-sex marriage, and shift the UMC structure from connectionism to regionalization,” their statement read.

According to the CUMW, Bishop Quire denied United Methodists in Liberia the opportunity to discuss these contentious issues at a special session, thereby enforcing changes without broad consultation.

This latest revolt follows a growing schism within the church. Recently, the 72nd United Methodist Church formally severed ties with the UMC, citing similar concerns over the denomination’s stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion and governance reforms. The 72nd UMC’s decision underscores an escalating divide, as more congregations consider disaffiliation to uphold traditional biblical teachings.

Vote of No Confidence and Leadership Criticism

The CUMW further accused Bishop Quire of violating the 2016 and 2020/2024 Book of Discipline by arbitrarily suspending clergy and laypeople, including district superintendents and vocal opponents of LGBTQ+ inclusion.

“Bishop Quire is not a law unto himself. He did not elect himself. There are guide rails and checkpoints. He is not above the Book of Discipline,” the statement asserted.

Additionally, the women’s group passed a vote of no confidence in Conference Lay Leader Tolbert Nyenswah, Associate Lay Leader for Region One Theresa Davies, and Associate Lay Leader for Region Three Allison Paygar, accusing them of poor leadership and complicity in the bishop’s alleged actions.

The letter also criticized Bishop Quire’s handling of the Conference Young Adult Fellowship, alleging that he attempted to unseat its leadership through orchestrated plans that ultimately failed. Furthermore, they condemned the dissolution of the legitimate Board of Ordained Ministry, replacing it with what they describe as “an illegitimate board designed to serve the bishop’s interests.”

Allegations of Financial Influence and Security Concerns

One of the most contentious accusations leveled against Bishop Quire is that he has accepted financial contributions from the global United Methodist Church to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in Liberia. The CUMW argues that this funding compromises the church’s theological integrity.

“We oppose the acceptance of all money from the Worldwide United Methodist Church to promote homosexuality, same-sex marriage, and regionalization in Liberia,” the statement declared.

The group also expressed alarm over reports of armed security personnel being deployed at church gatherings, arguing that such tactics are being used to suppress opposition and intimidate members.

A Call to Action: ‘No Women, No Church’

In response to their grievances, the CUMW announced the suspension of Bishop Quire from his role as Ex-Officio of the women’s organization. They also warned against any interference with their leadership or properties, particularly any attempts to relocate their 78th Conference Women Assembly/Anniversary from Guinea.

“No amount of suspension, fear, or intimidation will stop us from speaking out and standing up for the truth,” they declared.