Monrovia, Liberia – The 192nd Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church/Liberia Annual Conference (UMC/LAC) is about to take place in Gbarnga, central Liberia. This historic occasion will bring together church leaders, clergy, and delegates from all over the nation to discuss important administrative, social, and spiritual issues that impact the church and its mission in Liberia.
The UMC calendar’s main event, the Annual Conference, offers a forum for discussing issues facing the congregation and the communities it serves, assessing the church’s success, and establishing new objectives for the upcoming year.
This year’s theme, “Know That I am God,” which is based on Psalms 46:1–11, will take place from February 10–16 and represents the UMC’s steadfast dedication to promoting spiritual development and addressing urgent social challenges through its ministries.
Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., who leads the UMC Liberia Annual Conference, says, “Our Annual Conference is a time for spiritual renewal and collective decision-making; it’s not just a meeting. We want to work together to make sure that the United Methodist Church continues to be a source of faith, hope, and change for our country.”
Delegates will cast their votes at the Annual Conference regarding regionalization, which would enable African churches to worship in accordance with their constitutions, traditions, and customs.
“Regionalization has giving many United Methodist hope of staying United Methodist and I am very sure it will be voted for at this year‘s Annual Conference in Gbarnga,” Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr noted.
According to the Methodist Bishop, the week-long event will include a full schedule of events aimed at preparing church leaders for the challenges that lie ahead. These activities will include interactive worship sessions, educational seminars, presentations on the church’s influence, and the election of important church leaders who will steer the denomination’s mission in Liberia.
The evaluation of the church’s outreach initiatives, which have significantly improved healthcare, education, and the well-being of marginalized groups throughout Liberia, will be one of the conference’s main features, according to Bishop Quire.
The leader of the UMC Liberia Annual Conference clarified that UMC has played a significant role in providing humanitarian relief during emergencies, administering vital medical services in disadvantaged regions, and encouraging literacy through its schools.
The conference is anticipated to have significant economic advantages for Gbarnga and the neighboring towns in addition to its spiritual significance. Hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and transportation services will all benefit greatly from the hundreds of people who will be there, including delegates, observers, and clergy. As Bong County is establishing itself as a center for national events, this is especially important,” he continued.
Participants and attendees are encouraged to attend the inaugural worship service on February 10th, which will include a keynote address by a well-known worldwide guest preacher, according to the UMC Bishop.
The United Methodist Church in Liberia has been a cornerstone of faith, service, and progress for almost 200 years, he said, adding that the church’s heritage is intricately entwined with the history of the nation, especially in fields like healthcare and education.
Numerous schools and health facilities run by the UMC, he said, have turned into lifelines for disadvantaged and rural populations.
The Bishop disclosed that the church has another chance to reaffirm its commitment to these causes and to set itself up for future growth at the 192nd Annual Conference.
Bishop Quire was hopeful that a fresh commitment among UMC members may be sparked by the conference.
Reported by: Prince Saah
Contact: +231778239813
Email: saahprince119@gmail.com
