The West Africa College of Bishops, a pivotal body within the United Methodist Church, convened in Accra, Ghana, in December 2024 for a momentous gathering that culminated in the election of Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire, Jr., as its new President. This election marks a significant transition in leadership and sets the stage for a new era of growth and transformation for the church in the region. Bishop Quire, the current Resident Bishop for the Liberia Episcopal Area, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in church leadership and social justice advocacy to his new role. His selection underscores the college’s recognition of his dedication to fostering unity among diverse communities and tackling pressing societal issues such as education, healthcare, and environmental preservation.
Bishop Quire’s presidency is anticipated to focus on several key priorities, including strengthening regional partnerships, enhancing theological education, and promoting sustainable community development. These objectives aim to bolster the church’s capacity to serve its congregations and the wider community effectively. His leadership is expected to galvanize the church’s efforts to address the multifaceted challenges confronting the region and to capitalize on the opportunities for growth and positive impact. His acceptance speech resonated with a call for unity and faith, emphasizing the collective responsibility of the church in bringing about transformation. This message of collaborative action underscores the importance of shared purpose and collective effort in achieving the church’s goals.
The Accra gathering also witnessed the election of two new bishops, further strengthening the leadership of the West Africa College of Bishops. Bishop Ande Emmanuel from Nigeria, known for his emphasis on youth empowerment and interfaith dialogue, joins the ranks, bringing his expertise in fostering engagement among young people and promoting understanding across different religious communities. Bishop James Boye Calker, now presiding over the Sierra Leone Episcopal Area, brings valuable experience in peacebuilding and reconciliation, particularly relevant in the context of post-conflict Sierra Leone. These new additions to the episcopal leadership enhance the college’s capacity to address the diverse needs of the region and to promote healing and reconciliation where needed.
Bishop Quire’s election carries significant weight, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in his ability to navigate the complexities of the region and lead the church towards a brighter future. His deep understanding of the local context, coupled with his commitment to social justice and community development, positions him well to address the challenges and opportunities facing the United Methodist Church in West Africa. His leadership is poised to inspire hope and renew the church’s dedication to serving its communities with compassion and effectiveness.
The West Africa College of Bishops plays a critical role in shaping the spiritual and administrative direction of the United Methodist Church throughout the region. It provides a platform for collaborative decision-making, fostering unity and coordination among the various episcopal areas. The election of Bishop Quire and the two new bishops serves to invigorate this body, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to its mission. This revitalized leadership structure is expected to facilitate more effective responses to the evolving needs of the church and the communities it serves.
The Accra event resonated with a sense of optimism and anticipation for the future of the United Methodist Church in West Africa. The election of Bishop Quire, coupled with the addition of two new bishops, has instilled confidence in the church’s ability to navigate the challenges ahead and to embrace the opportunities for growth and positive impact. The event has left a lasting impression of unity, purpose, and renewed commitment, setting the stage for a future marked by inclusive growth and meaningful ministry under the guidance of its newly elected leadership. This renewed sense of purpose is expected to permeate throughout the church, inspiring its members to work together towards a common goal of serving their communities and spreading the message of faith and hope.
