Buchanan, Grand Bassa County – Liberia’s story is far from over, according to Rev. Paula White-Cain, senior advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump for the White House Faith Office. She told thousands present at the nation’s 179th Independence Day Thanksgiving and Intercessory Service that the country has been “divinely preserved for a greater purpose” and is destined to become a beacon of freedom and hope throughout Africa.
On Sunday, July 26, 2026, White-Cain gave the keynote address at the First United Methodist Church in Buchanan. She declared that Liberia’s ability to endure civil wars, political unrest, economic hardship, epidemic outbreaks, and other national crises was evidence of God’s sustaining hand.
“History says Liberia survived. Faith declares Liberia has been preserved. That is testimony. It is evidence that the preserving hand of Almighty God remains upon this nation,” she added.
According to the White House spiritual adviser and American televangelist, Liberia is about to embark on a new phase of national rebirth and restoration. “I believe this is a rebuilding season for your nation, a season that will become your greatest testimony. I believe Liberia is entering its best chapter yet,” she narrated.
Presenting on the national Independence Day theme, “Strengthening National Identity Through Liberia-Led Historical Leadership,” White-Cain pointed out that a nation’s identity is built in remembering its past and urged Liberians to cherish their history while keeping an eye on the future.
“You cannot know your destiny if you do not know your history,” she said, adding that “while faith influences destiny, history shapes identity.”
She compared Liberia’s journey to the reconstruction of ancient Jerusalem, drawing heavily from the biblical story of Nehemiah, and stated that the nation has the chance to rebuild not only its institutions but also its confidence, unity, and sense of purpose.
“Nehemiah rebuilt much more than walls. He regained self-assurance. He regained his identity. He gave hope again. He reassured others who were feeling down that God’s promises were still greater than their difficult past,” she remarked.
“Where you have been does not determine where God intends to take you,” White-Cain continued, urging Liberians not to let past struggles define the future of their country. “God’s promises are still more important than your history.”
President Joseph N. Boakai was also commended by White-Cain, who described him as more than just a foreign leader she had met while traveling around the world. “I have traveled to more than 140 countries. When I completed my official disclosure documents, your name required special detail, not because you are simply a president I have met, but because you are someone I consider a genuine friend.”
She praised First Lady Kartumu Yarta Boakai for her humility, generosity, and compassion and commended President Boakai for his “faithful leadership and unwavering commitment to Liberia.”
White-Cain emphasized Liberia’s special position in African history as the first sovereign republic on the continent and stated that the country’s founding requires a duty that goes beyond its boundaries. The word “Liberia” itself means freedom, liberty, and deliverance. “I think God has kept Liberia intact because His plans for this country are still incomplete,” she said.
According to the US spiritual advisor, Liberia’s people are its greatest value rather than its natural riches. “Your minerals are not your greatest asset. These forests are not yours. It’s not your farming. It is your people.”
White-Cain called on Liberians to reject separation and embrace a common commitment to reconstructing the country, advocating for servant leadership, national unity, and spiritual regeneration. “Unity is necessary to build a nation. Covenant is necessary. Each citizen must strengthen the hands of one another. We should never be imprisoned by history. It ought to get us ready for what is ahead,” she continued.
“Liberia’s future is full of promise,” White-Cain declared as she concluded her speech with prayers for national reform and regeneration. “I think Liberia is going to receive favor. Liberia will soon have an opportunity. Liberia is about to experience greatness. Liberia, your destiny will no longer be delayed.”
President Boakai, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, senior government officials, members of the legislature and judiciary, diplomats, traditional leaders, clergy, and citizens from all over the nation attended the 179th Independence Day Thanksgiving and Intercessory Service, which featured her speech as one of the ceremony’s memorable moments.
