Methodist Bishop Calls for Calm Amid Same-Sex Marriage Debate in Liberia
Bishop Samuel Quire of the Liberia Annual Conference calls for calm regarding the controversy over same-sex marriage within the UMC. He reaffirms the traditional definition of marriage as between a man and a woman, reflecting the conservative position of the UMC in Liberia. The ongoing schism due to differing views on LGBTQ+ inclusion has led to the formation of the Global Methodist Church by conservative members. Quire’s emphasis is on maintaining church unity and focus on mission despite these tensions.
The Liberia Annual Conference’s Bishop, Samuel Quire, has advocated for calm amidst disputes over same-sex marriage allegations within the United Methodist Church (UMC). By reaffirming the traditional definition of marriage as a sacred union between a man and a woman, Quire aligns with the UMC’s conservative stance in Liberia and mirrors the broader consensus among many African UMC churches.
Currently, the UMC is experiencing fractures over differing positions on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ clergy, leading some congregations to dissociate from the church. The formation of the Global Methodist Church (GMC) serves as a testament to these divisions, where conservative congregations have separated from the UMC due to disagreements about LGBTQ+ inclusion and clergy ordination.
Bishop Quire’s advocacy for traditional marriage underscores the significant theological and cultural divides within the global UMC regarding inclusivity. “Marriage must align with biblical teachings and the laws of our nation,” he asserted, reinforcing the prevailing conservative views held by many African UMC communities.
In light of the ongoing schism, Bishop Quire has expressed a commitment to unity and security within UMC worship places in Liberia. His emphasis on maintaining traditional Christian values reflects the broader resistance among African Methodist communities concerning same-sex marriage.
Bishop Quire’s message also encourages local churches to prioritize worship and community service despite the controversies. It remains to be seen how Liberia’s UMC will manage its relationship with the broader global denomination moving forward, as tensions continue to surface between differing cultural contexts and evolving social norms in various regions.
Bishop Samuel Quire advocates for traditional marriage in light of the ongoing UMC split over LGBTQ+ inclusion, highlighting the conservative theory prevalent in Liberia’s UMC. His statements affirm a traditional stance on marriage and emphasize the necessity for unity amid the global schism. As Liberia navigates its relationship with the larger UMC, Quire’s focus remains on worship and community roles, reinforcing conservative Christian values amidst ongoing controversies.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
