The United Methodist Church/Liberia Annual Conference (UMC/LAC) is preparing to convene its 192nd Annual Conference in Gbarnga, Bong County, Liberia, from February 10th to 16th, 2025. This significant event will unite clergy, church leaders, and delegates from across the nation to address crucial spiritual, social, and administrative matters impacting the church and its mission in Liberia. The annual conference serves as a pivotal platform for evaluating progress, establishing future goals, and confronting challenges faced by the congregation and the communities it serves. The theme for this year’s conference, “Know That I am God” (Psalms 46:1-11), underscores the UMC’s steadfast commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and tackling critical social issues through its various ministries.
Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., head of the UMC Liberia Annual Conference, emphasizes the transformative potential of the event, highlighting it as a period of spiritual renewal and collective decision-making. He stresses the importance of the conference in ensuring that the United Methodist Church remains a symbol of hope, faith, and positive change within Liberia. One crucial topic on the agenda is regionalization, which would grant African churches the autonomy to worship according to their unique customs, traditions, and constitutions. This is viewed by many, including Rev. Cyrus Tugbe of Mount Scott United Methodist Church, as a vital step in preserving unity within the UMC.
The week-long conference promises a comprehensive schedule of activities designed to inspire and equip church leaders for the challenges ahead. These activities encompass dynamic worship services, educational workshops, presentations showcasing the church’s impact, and the election of key leaders who will steer the denomination’s vision in Liberia. A major focus will be the review of the church’s outreach programs, which have played a significant role in improving education, healthcare, and the well-being of vulnerable communities throughout the country. The UMC’s contributions include promoting literacy through its schools, providing essential medical services in underserved areas, and offering humanitarian aid during times of crisis.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the 192nd Annual Conference is anticipated to bring substantial economic benefits to Gbarnga and its surrounding communities. The influx of hundreds of visitors – clergy, delegates, and observers – is expected to significantly boost local businesses, including hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and transportation services. This is particularly beneficial for Bong County, which is steadily establishing itself as a national gathering hub. Local entrepreneurs are eagerly anticipating the economic opportunities the conference will generate, viewing it as a chance to showcase their hospitality and contribute to the local economy.
Attendees are particularly encouraged to participate in the opening worship service on February 10th, which will feature a keynote sermon by a renowned international guest preacher. This sermon is expected to set the tone for the entire conference, inspiring participants to embrace the theme of transformation in their ministry and daily lives. Throughout the week, delegates will engage in intensive discussions and decision-making sessions to adopt resolutions that will shape the church’s future. These resolutions will address various aspects of the church’s operations, including enhancing programs, improving accountability, and strengthening its role as an advocate for social justice in Liberia.
For almost two centuries, the United Methodist Church in Liberia has served as a pillar of faith, service, and development. The church’s legacy is deeply interwoven with the nation’s history, particularly in the realms of education and healthcare. The UMC operates numerous schools and health facilities, many of which have become vital resources for rural and underserved communities. The 192nd Annual Conference represents another opportunity for the church to reaffirm its commitment to these causes and to position itself for even greater impact in the years ahead. Bishop Quire expresses optimism about the conference’s potential to ignite a renewed sense of commitment among UMC members, emphasizing the church’s ongoing responsibility to be agents of transformation both within their congregations and in the wider society. The conference will conclude on February 16th with the adoption of resolutions and a special thanksgiving service, sending delegates back to their respective communities with renewed purpose and actionable strategies to advance the UMC’s mission.
