United Methodist Church denounces Bishop Johnson over same-sex marriage claims

Published: August 22, 2025

MONROVIA — The Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC) on Wednesday condemned Bishop Joseph Gardea Johnson of the Restoration Baptist Church for what it described as “deliberate misinformation” linking its leadership to same-sex marriage.

In a strongly worded statement, the church said its resident bishop, Samuel J. Quire Jr., “has never endorsed, promoted, nor officiated any same-sex marriage in Liberia,” dismissing recent claims circulating on social media as attempts to discredit the denomination.

“The United Methodist Church in Liberia has never officiated, nor will it ever officiate, same-sex marriages,” the statement read, citing a resolution passed at the church’s 192nd Annual Conference that rejected same-sex marriage as “unbiblical, unchristian, and contrary to Liberian law, culture, and tradition.”

The LAC/UMC accused Johnson and others of fueling violent attacks against its members and properties last year. In June 2024, Bishop Quire was assaulted by a mob in Ganta, Nimba County, while separate protests targeted churches in Paynesville, Duazon and other areas, according to the church. Lawyers representing the denomination were also beaten in Omega, it added.

“Those who spread the false narrative that Bishop Quire and the United Methodist Church in Liberia are promoting homosexuality are not only spreading dangerous lies but are also inciting violence,” the statement said.

The church urged the public to be wary of “individuals or groups who twist the truth for personal or political gain,” insisting it remains committed to biblical teaching, national laws, and traditional values.

“Bishop Johnson’s statements represent nothing but desperation, misinformation, and a lack of proper understanding of our polity,” the statement added, accusing him of lacking “the requisite leadership and integrity.”

Despite the controversies, the LAC/UMC said it will remain focused on its mission of evangelism, education, healthcare, and service to the Liberian people.