The Future Is Bright – Discerning the Times, Encouraging the Church, Leading with Purpose

At the Sixth Episcopal District Mid-Year Convocation in Macon, Georgia, the Rev. Dr. Tar-U-Way Richard Allen Bright, Sr., officially announced his candidacy for Episcopal Office in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in 2028.

Under the theme “The Future Is Bright,” Dr. Bright offers a vision of episcopal leadership grounded in three commitments: discerning the times, encouraging the Church, and leading with purpose.

Dr. Bright’s platform includes expanding health and wellness initiatives, strengthening intergenerational relationships, developing clergy and lay leadership, and encouraging meaningful civic engagement and prioritizing youth and young adult participation in the life of our church.

“The future of this Church is not something we wait for; it is something God calls us to help build,” Dr. Bright declared. “I believe the Church’s best days are ahead of us. When we are rooted in prayer, anchored in Scripture, willing to answer the call, the future is bright.”

Dr. Bright believes the future of the AME Church requires leaders who are spiritually grounded, attentive to the needs of God’s people, and prepared to address the challenges facing the Church and the communities it serves. His vision embraces faithful stewardship, financial integrity, transparency, accountability, leadership development, and a renewed commitment to the Church’s historic mission of faith, justice, and service.

As pastor of Turner Chapel AME Church, one of Georgia’s oldest and largest AME congregations, Dr. Bright has demonstrated a commitment to building relationships, strengthening congregations, mentoring clergy, and empowering communities. His leadership reflects the conviction that prayer is not simply preparation for ministry, it is the foundation.

For Dr. Bright, discerning the times means understanding the changing needs of congregations and communities while responding through the lens of Scripture and the Gospel. Encouraging the Church means recognizing the gifts of God’s people, nurturing new generations of leaders, and strengthening relationships throughout the connection. Leading with purpose means ensuring that the Church’s ministries and resources advance its God-given mission.

His commitment to stewardship is reflected in a record of mobilizing more than $4 million annually for ministry and community initiatives and securing resources exceeding $500,000 to address urgent needs. He understands that faithful stewardship demands responsible management, financial accountability, and the integrity necessary to sustain the trust of the connectional Church.

Dr. Bright has served as a pastor, episcopal district leader, board member of AME University and Turner Theological Seminary, and as a valued community partner. As the father of two Generation Z children, Dr. Bright recognizes the importance of engaging younger generations and creating opportunities for them to shape the Church’s future. His approachable leadership style and ability to connect across generations and backgrounds reflect his belief that every person has value and a place in God’s work.

Dr. Bright is married to Dr. Retta S. Bright, a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. They are the proud parents of Tar-U-Way Jr., a Howard University graduate and TaRetta, a North Carolina A&T State University graduate.

As he seeks election to the episcopacy in 2028, Dr. Bright pledges to serve the entire connectional Church with humility, collaboration, spiritual discernment, and a steadfast commitment to its mission and legacy.

His candidacy represents a call to strengthen the Church, restore and sustain confidence through faithful leadership, invest in future generations, and embrace the opportunities God has placed before the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The times call for leadership rooted in faith, guided by integrity, and committed to purpose. The Church is ready. Bright is prepared. The Future Is Bright!

MONROVIA – Dr. Jude Ememe at the head of a 7-man high-level delegation under the auspices of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Nigeria, arrived in Liberia on Thursday, October 15 and has been involved in series of activities including capacity – building aimed at enhancing the leadership ability of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Liberia.

By Augustus D.R Bortue

Other members of the delegation include Dr. Godwin Edozie, Barrister Isaac Okpanachi, National President of Nigeria (FGBMFI), Bro. Stephen Okruefe and Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Mamodu.

The fellowship established in 1952 by an American Christian businessman, Demos Shakarian, in California is a global movement of Christians from different denominations and diverse expertise, working together to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ in fulfillment of the Great Commission.

Although the fellowship started initially with frustration and disappointments characterized by poor attendance in initial meetings and lack of money, it has been organized in about 163 countries worldwide.

In addition, millions of lives have been impacted globally through groups of ordinary Christians laymen inspired by a God-given vision that was originally imparted to Demos Shakarian.

During one of the training sessions held at Evelyn Restaurant in Sinkor, Monrovia, Dr. Edozie said Full Gospel is a spiritual work that has a vision and mission.

In order  to become successful in life, Dr. Edozie encouraged his fellow believers to always factor God first in their plan and allow the Holy Spirit to provide guidance and direction in their Christian journey.  

Dr. Edozie added that the fellowship is not a church, but rather a network of professionals having strong passion and commitment in winning souls using their God-given gifts and sharing of testimonies which inspire individuals to join the body of Christ,

On Saturday, October 17, a joint breakfast meeting took place at the Bella Casa Hotel on 2^nd Street in Sinkor, Monrovia  and brought together participants representing four chapters that have been established in Liberia.

In his welcome remarks, the National President of the FGBMFI-Liberia, Arthur Fumbah, extended profound gratitude and described the visit by the

Nigerian FGBMFI as a clear manifestation of their desire to help Liberia become stronger and more effective in managing chapters to the glory of God.

Fumbah reflected on the warm reception accorded to them during their visit to Nigeria in 2019. Regarding progress, he said the guest, Liberia has established four chapters, and expressed optimism that additional chapters would be established in the coming year.

The main speaker at the breakfast meeting was the National President of the FGBMFI of Nigeria, who is a Solicitor, Advocate and Notary Public.

Isaac Okpanachi challenged executives of the Liberian FGBMFI to engage those in authority to always reference God first as they provide stewardship for the country since, in fact, Liberia is a Nation Founded on Christian principles.

He further prayed for the nation and asked God to use the Full Gospel Fellowship in heading and reconciling Liberia.

Moderating the breakfast meeting was Liberia’s FGBMFI Eminent Chapter President, Dr. Nathania T. Blama, Sr., assisted by Bro. Wilson Gaglo-Delali, National Prayer  Coordinator, while sister Mama Wesaye led the praise & Worship Team.    

VATICAN CITY — The global Catholic population increased by 16.69 million to 1.422 billion, while the number of priests rose slightly for the first time in five years, according to the Vatican’s latest Church statistics.

The 2026 statistical dossier, prepared by the Vatican’s Fides News Agency ahead of World Mission Sunday on October 18, also recorded declining numbers of women religious and major seminarians, highlighting contrasting trends in the Church’s global workforce.

According to the Vatican News, the report draws on the latest Church statistical yearbook, with Catholic population figures covering June 30, 2024, and other data reflecting figures as of December 31, 2024. Changes are measured against 2023.

Africa Leads Catholic Population Growth

Catholics accounted for 17.8 percent of the world’s nearly eight billion people, with their numbers increasing across all continents.

Africa recorded the largest increase, adding 7.58 million Catholics, followed by the Americas with 6.99 million. Asia gained 968,000, Europe 911,000, and Oceania 239,000.

The Americas remained home to the largest Catholic population, with 678.87 million. Africa followed with 288.31 million, slightly ahead of Europe’s 287.24 million. Asia recorded 156.17 million Catholics, while Oceania had 11.56 million.

Priest Numbers Edge Up as Seminarians Decline

The number of priests worldwide reached 407,421, an increase of 425 from the previous year.

According to Fides, the increase marks the first rise in the global priest population in five years.

Africa recorded the largest regional increase, with 1,676 additional priests, followed by Asia with 1,065 and the Americas with 199. These gains offset declines in Europe, which lost 2,483 priests, and Oceania, which recorded a decrease of 32.

The number of diocesan priests increased by 496 to 279,238, while religious priests declined by 71 to 128,183.

Despite the overall increase, the average number of Catholics per priest rose by 38 to 3,491, indicating that the Catholic population continues to grow faster than the number of priests available to serve it.

The report also recorded 5,525 bishops, an increase of 95, and 52,102 permanent deacons, up by 669.

Women religious, however, declined by 9,292 to 580,131 worldwide. Africa was the only continent to register growth, adding 2,190, while Europe recorded the largest decrease, with 6,473 fewer women religious.

The number of major seminarians fell by 2,891 to 103,604. Africa was again the only continent to record an increase, gaining 786, while Asia experienced the sharpest decline, with 2,733 fewer major seminarians.

Minor seminarians also decreased, falling by 980 to 94,041.

Lay Missionaries and Catechists Increase

While some traditional religious vocations declined, the number of lay missionaries and catechists increased.

Lay missionaries rose by 18,473 to 463,079, while catechists increased by 22,370 to 2,889,336.

The Americas recorded the largest growth in lay missionaries, while the Americas and Asia led increases in catechist numbers.

The figures point to the growing role of lay members in supporting the Church’s missionary and pastoral work amid changes in the number of ordained priests and religious vocations.

Church Expands Education and Healthcare Services

Beyond its religious mission, the Catholic Church continues to operate an extensive global network of educational, healthcare and charitable institutions.

The report listed 75,448 kindergartens, 103,666 primary schools and 51,810 secondary schools worldwide.

Its healthcare and charitable network comprised 101,110 facilities, including 5,397 hospitals and 13,646 dispensaries.

Africa accounted for the largest number of hospitals and dispensaries in the report’s continental breakdown, underscoring the Church’s role in providing healthcare services across the continent.

The statistics were released ahead of the 100th World Mission Sunday, celebrated on October 18 under the theme “One in Christ, United in Mission.”

The annual observance highlights the Church’s missionary work and its call for Catholics worldwide to support evangelization and service to communities.

MONROVIA — One of Liberia’s most prominent clergymen used his Sunday pulpit to challenge the West African nation’s leaders and citizens to stop letting past failures dictate the country’s future, warning that “Liberia’s children cannot eat yesterday’s speeches by politicians.” 

By Rodney D. Sieh

Rev. Dr. Samuel Reeves, senior pastor of Providence Baptist Church in the capital, Monrovia, delivered the sermon, titled “Yesterday Ended Last Night,” on Sunday, Oct. 18. Founded in 1821 by freed Black Americans who settled the colony, the church is Liberia’s oldest and the site where the country’s Declaration of Independence was signed in 1847. Often called “the cornerstone of the nation,” it has long counted Liberia’s political leaders among its members.

The message comes as Liberia, still recovering from back-to-back civil wars that ended in 2003, debates how to reckon with that history. Lawmakers are weighing competing bills to create a war and economic crimes court, a step long urged by the country’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and international rights groups.

Reeves drew on Philippians 3:12–14, in which the Apostle Paul writes of “forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” The sermon was part of a church series titled “More Than Enough: A Journey into Stress-Free Living.”

A farmer’s lesson

Reeves opened with the image of a Liberian farmer standing in his field after a failed harvest, too haunted by his losses to plant again when the new season arrives.

“The farmer’s greatest danger is no longer last season’s failed harvest,” he told the congregation. “It is allowing last season to destroy this season’s opportunity.”

He built his message around three steps: release the past, reclaim the present and reach toward the future.

Leaders put on notice

The sharpest words were aimed at those in power. Reeves said young Liberians cannot build their futures “on institutions that refuse to learn or leaders who avoid accountability.”

They need education that equips them, institutions they can trust and jobs, he said, as well as “leaders who understand that public office is a responsibility rather than a personal entitlement.”

The country’s institutions, he added, “deserve leaders who put integrity before personal gain and hatred.” The past can inform policy, he said, but it “cannot replace reform.”

Truth before reconciliation

In a passage that echoed Liberia’s national debate over wartime justice, Reeves said the country must remember painful history while working toward a different future.

“Truth must be told. Injustice must be confronted. The suffering of people must be honored. Reconciliation must take accountability seriously,” he said.

“A nation cannot heal by pretending its wounds never existed. But neither can it flourish if its wounds are allowed to determine every possibility ahead.”

Citizens not off the hook

Reeves did not spare ordinary Liberians.

“We cannot demand honesty from our leaders while excusing dishonesty in ourselves,” he said. “We cannot pray for justice while mistreating our neighbors. We cannot ask God to bless our communities while refusing to serve them.”

He called on the church to preach “a hope that inspires responsibility.”

Grace, not escape

Citing the Apostle Peter, who denied Jesus three times and was later restored, Reeves said failure need not be final. But he stressed that forgiveness does not erase responsibility.

“Grace does not excuse wrongdoing. It gives us courage to repent, make amends, and live differently,” he said. “If you have hurt someone, apologize. If you have acted dishonestly, tell the truth.”

For victims, he said, letting go of the past “does not mean calling evil good or abandoning justice.”

‘Reach forward’

Reeves closed with a call to hope rooted in the resurrection of Christ, urging worshippers to act today even when the future is uncertain.

“You may not see the harvest from the seed you plant today. Reach forward,” he said. “Not because you control the future, but because you can trust the God who holds the future.”

“Your past may explain your pain,” he said, “but it does not have to determine your direction.”

MONROVIA – Liberia’s leaders and churches must not mistake the end of the war for the arrival of peace. That was the charge Rev. Dr. Samuel Reeves delivered from the pulpit of Providence Baptist Church on Sunday.

By Rodney D. Sieh

“Listen, church, listen, Liberia, the first generation after conflict must not be satisfied merely because the guns became silent,” Reeves said. “Silence is not the same as reconciliation. Stability is not the same as justice.”

In a sermon billed as “A Message for the Nation,” Reeves went further, singling out the economic yardstick the country has been using to measure progress. “Economic growth, and raising 1 billion dollars in revenue is not the same as human flourishing,” he said. “Institutional survival is not the same as institutional excellence.”

“A nation can rebuild roads and still need to rebuild trust”

Preaching from Philippians 3:9-11 on the theme “The Power of Resurrection Living: Living Beyond Our Fears,” Reeves framed Liberia’s recovery from civil war as a story of death and resurrection. He said the country “knows what it means to pass through a Friday.”

He pointed to the 2003 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which called the nation toward reconciliation, democracy and good governance. “That is resurrection language,” he said. But he warned that resurrection “does not mean pretending the grave never existed. It means refusing to let the grave have the final word.”

“Healing is not amnesia. Reconciliation is not denial. Peace is not the absence of memory,” Reeves told the congregation.

He laid out what he called the nation’s unfinished work. “A nation can rebuild roads and still need to rebuild trust. A nation can construct buildings and still need to construct character. A nation can hold elections and still need to deepen citizenship.”

A call to ordinary citizens

Reeves credited Liberia’s peace not to any single leader but to many hands: women who pressed for negotiations, faith and traditional leaders, teachers who returned to classrooms, and health workers who served through crisis. “God rarely raises a community through spectators,” he said.

He painted a picture of what he called “faith with skin on it.” He described a teacher telling children their circumstances do not determine their possibilities, and a young entrepreneur creating jobs rather than waiting for them. He also pointed to “a civil servant refusing corruption because righteousness matters more than personal gain.”

He also challenged the church itself, calling for “a church that refuses to compete for influence while communities struggle for hope.” He urged universities to teach young people “not simply how to find employment, but how to think, serve, lead, create, and rebuild.”

“Resurrection requires participation”

Reeves closed with a message aimed at both the nation and individuals in the pews. “Your history is real. Your wounds are real,” he said. “But your history is not your destiny.”

“God may open the tomb, but somebody has to walk out of it,” he said. “God may give the vision, but somebody has to build.”

His final words were addressed to the country: “So stand, Liberia. Stand in righteousness. Stand in grace. Stand in truth.”

Monrovia – A Christian ministry known as the Holiness Revival Movement is calling on Liberians to return to what it describes as the Biblical teachings of righteousness, holiness and preparation for eternity.

By Anthony Gray

Speaking ahead of a four-day conference scheduled for October 1–4 in Congo Town, outside Monrovia, Pastor Paul Rika said the movement is in Liberia to “revive holiness” and encourage Christians and non-Christians to embrace what he described as the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Rika said the non-denominational movement was established as a means of bringing Christians together around Biblical teachings, emphasizing that human beings will ultimately face judgment.

According to him, the world is not a permanent place and people must therefore prepare for what comes after life.

He said Jesus Christ came and died for humanity so that people could have access to God, urging Christians to take seriously the teachings contained in the Bible.

Pastor Rika also linked some of the social problems and corruption in society to what he described as a decline in the preaching of biblical truth and the fear of God.

He referenced the Biblical instruction to observe the things written in Scripture, arguing that stronger adherence to Christian teachings could help promote moral discipline and responsible living.

The preacher further challenged those who question the existence of heaven and hell, saying Christians should take seriously the Bible’s teachings about life after death and divine judgment.

Meanwhile, Evangelist Linda Paul Rika shared her personal testimony, recounting what she described as a dramatic transformation from a lifestyle she considered contrary to Christian teachings.

She said that before encountering Jesus Christ, she struggled with alcohol, multiple relationships, drug use, tattoos, what she described as “naked dressing,” and visits to herbalists for charms.

Evangelist Linda said her experience eventually led her to embrace Christianity and dedicate herself to spreading a message of repentance, righteousness and holiness.

She also warned that, in her view, Satan is blinding people to the seriousness of sin and the consequences associated with it.

The Holiness Revival Movement says its Liberian campaign is intended to serve as a catalyst for Christians from different denominations to come together and renew their commitment to Biblical teachings.

Pastor Rika, who is currently on a tour of Liberia, said the campaign seeks to bring what he called “the life of the truth of Jesus Christ” to the Liberian people.

The conference is scheduled to run from October 1 to 4 with morning sessions beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the Oldest Congo Town, opposite SATCOM

Organizers are expecting large numbers of people to attend and are inviting Liberians from across the country to participate in what they describe as a life-changing Christian gathering focused on repentance, holiness and faith in Jesus Christ.

Ganta, Nimba County —  The Global Methodist Church Bishop, Dr. Jerry P. Kula,  was poorly received during his visit to Nimba County over the weekend after heavy publicity on community radio stations.

By Franklin Doloquee

Bishop Dr.  Kulah recently elected bishop of the Global Methodist Church — a breakaway faction of the United Methodist Church visited Nimba County on Friday, September 25 to thank members who supported the Global Methodist Church during the recent church crisis. His visit came as the matter awaits a decision from the country’s highest court.

During the visit, Bishop Kulah expressed appreciation to local members and leaders for their loyalty and support.

He encouraged continued unity among congregations in Nimba County and reaffirmed the Global Methodist Church’s commitment to pastoral care and spiritual guidance while the legal process continues.

Local church officials said the visit helped strengthen ties between the national leadership and county congregations.

Supporters described the bishop’s appearance as timely and morale-boosting amid ongoing uncertainty about the church’s legal status.

Bishop Kulah’s election and the wider split that produced the Global Methodist Church followed doctrinal and governance disagreements within the United Methodist Church.

The case before the Supreme Court will influence how leadership and property disputes are resolved for congregations aligned with the breakaway group.

Speaking at a facility in Ganta, Bishop Kulah said his visit was meant to appreciate Global Methodist Church members in Nimba who supported the denomination during Liberia’s recent church crisis.

Despite his remarks, the bishop faced a chilly reception in both Ganta and Sanniquellie.

Background

In early 2025, the United Methodist Church in Liberia split, producing three branches:

the United Methodist Church (the original body), the Global Methodist Church a breakaway faction, and the Independent Methodist Church.

Observers expect each branch to have its own Bishop:

Bishop Samuel Quire Jr. for the original United Methodist Church, Bishop Dr. Jerry P. Kulah for the Global Methodist Church, and Rev. Dr. James Lalbah for the Independent Methodist Church.

Land and resources dispute

Since the split, the Global Methodist Church has claimed land and property previously associated with the United Methodist Church. Members of the Independent Methodist Church say they are not occupying those properties. The dispute over ownership of church property is pending before Liberia’s Supreme Court.

Membership and expectations

Several Global Methodist Church members, who asked not to be named, said they were promised international scholarships, travel opportunities and financial support when they joined the breakaway denomination.

They said those  benefits have not materialized.  Instead, the church currently depends heavily on weekly offerings from congregants. Members reported falling attendance and shrinking membership as a result.

District office in poor condition

The building that houses the district superintendent and other Global Methodist Church executives in Ganta, located near the United Methodist Church compound has fallen into disrepair.

Because of that, Rev. Elebenzern Belleh and other officials are using private homes as temporary offices.  Church executives in Ganta declined to comment when contacted.

Hospital takeover delayed

Rev. Elebenzern Belleh told Front Page Africa during an interview in early 2026 that the Global Methodist Church had planned to take over the Ganta United Methodist Hospital by February 2026, but that transfer has not occurred.

Cause of the dispute

Some Methodists, who spoke off the record, say the split was driven in part by internal power struggles over leadership positions, including bishoprics. Both sides await the Supreme Court’s decision regarding property ownership and related claims, any ruling could affect the leadership and positions currently held within the factions.

Monrovia — The 2026 Africa College of Bishops Meeting of The United Methodist Church has concluded in Liberia with bishops from across the continent renewing their commitment to expanding the Church’s mission, strengthening institutional sustainability and partnering with governments and civil society to address Africa’s social and development challenges.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh

The five-day gathering, held in Monrovia from August 31 to September 4, marked the first time Liberia hosted the Africa College of Bishops, bringing together active and retired bishops and other senior church leaders from across Africa.

Held under the theme, “Deepening Ecumenical Engagement, Expanding Continental Influence and Strengthening Institutional Sustainability,” the meeting focused on the future of The United Methodist Church in Africa and its role in promoting peace, justice, reconciliation and sustainable development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the bishops issued a statement anchored in Isaiah 54:2: “Enlarge the site of your tent… lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes.”

Regionalization Taking Root

The bishops said the Church’s regionalization process is now taking effect across Africa, allowing United Methodists to conduct mission and ministry in ways that better reflect local contexts while maintaining connections with the worldwide denomination.

They said African regions are updating their Books of Discipline and establishing judicial courts as part of the transition.

The bishops also recognized the continued role of United Methodist general agencies in supporting the Church’s mission and maintaining connections across the denomination.

Several major denominational institutions provided updates during the meeting, including the General Council on Finance and Administration, Global Ministries, United Methodist Committee on Relief, United Methodist Communications, the General Commission on Religion and Race, Wespath and Africa University.

New Bishop Expected for West Africa

The bishops also celebrated what they described as continued growth of The United Methodist Church in Africa, pointing to plans for the election of a new bishop in the West Africa Regional Conference in December 2026.

According to the statement, the additional episcopal leadership is expected to help address the vast geographical responsibilities of the regional conference, which encompasses Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria, as well as mission districts in Senegal and Cameroon.

Guinea-Bissau, the bishops said, is also in the process of formally rejoining the West Africa Regional Conference and is expected to become part of the Sierra Leone Conference.

Discussions were also held on the feasibility of adding more bishops in Africa during the next quadrennium.

Bishops Push Wider Ecumenical Role

The gathering reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to ecumenical engagement, particularly on issues of peace, reconciliation, violence and public health.

The bishops said United Methodists across Africa continue to work with other Christian denominations and ecumenical organizations to confront major challenges facing the continent.

They specifically cited efforts to end wars and violence, promote peace and reconciliation, and respond to pandemics, including Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa.

The meeting brought together prominent Liberian Christian leaders, including the President of the Liberia Council of Churches and keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Samuel B. Reeves; Roman Catholic Archbishop of Monrovia, Most Rev. Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe; and Bishop of the Episcopal Church of Liberia, Rt. Rev. Dr. James Bombo Sellee.

Africa Eyes General Conference 2032

The Africa College of Bishops also received an update on preparations for the 2028 United Methodist General Conference.

The bishops welcomed efforts by the Commission on the General Conference to ensure that African delegates can participate fully and effectively in the global gathering.

But they went further, urging the wider Church to consider hosting the 2032 General Conference in Africa.

The call could give the continent a greater role in shaping the future direction of The United Methodist Church as its membership and influence continue to expand across Africa.

Backing AU Agenda 2063

The bishops also expressed support for the African Union’s Agenda 2063, “The Africa We Want,” saying its objectives are reflected in development and social initiatives being pursued within various United Methodist episcopal areas.

They called on African political leaders to champion equality, justice, peace, reconciliation and the wellbeing of citizens.

The Church, they said, remains committed to partnering with governments, civil society, ecumenical institutions and local communities to help build a peaceful, just, prosperous and sustainable Africa.

Call for Accountability

On church administration and finances, the bishops highlighted what they described as increased giving and apportionment contributions across their episcopal areas.

They also commended support for the Regional Conferences Theological Education Fund.

At the same time, they urged United Methodists to maintain high standards of accountability, transparency, generosity and responsible financial management, stressing that resources entrusted to the Church must be properly managed in support of its mission.

Liberia Receives Special Commendation

The bishops expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of Liberia for hosting the historic gathering.

They said Liberia occupies a special place in the history and mission of The United Methodist Church in Africa, making the country an appropriate setting for the meeting.

During their stay, the bishops interacted with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president and a lifelong United Methodist.

The College also commended the Government of Liberia, ecumenical partners, United Methodists, the Liberia National Police, development and institutional partners, sponsors, media organizations and individuals whose financial, logistical, moral and spiritual contributions helped make the gathering possible.

Host Committee Closes Its Mandate

The Special Committee established to host the meeting also formally concluded its mandate, expressing appreciation to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the event.

The committee was headed by Cllr. Amb. Medina A. Wesseh, Chairperson; Cllr. Ruth Jappy-Samukai, Co-Chairperson; and Jeremiah S. Swen, Secretary.

As the bishops returned to their respective episcopal areas, they said they were leaving Liberia with renewed commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ, stronger fellowship and a shared determination to “enlarge the tent” of the Church’s mission across Africa.

Monrovia – The President of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), Rev. Dr. Samuel Baryogar Reeves, has called on Bishops of the Methodist faith, especially on the African continent to now begin to move aggressively in its growth, while at the same time contributing to nations’ development.

By Emmanuel Conway

Dr. Reeves, who is also the President of the Liberia Baptist and Theological Convention, stated that the African Church is standing in the middle of extraordinary growth; hence, amid the growing congregations, emerging young people and scholars and women in key leadership positions, the next move is to climb the ladder.

Bishop Reeves made these comments Monday, August 31, 2026 at the opening of the ongoing 2026 Africa College of Bishops hosted by the Liberia Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church.

The meeting, which is expected to run up to September 4, being held under the theme: “Deepening Ecumenical Enlargement, Expanding Continental Influence and strengthening institutional sustainability” with text drawn from the Book of Isaiah 54:2 quote: “Enlarge the space of your tent.”

Time To Enlarge The vision.  

The Baptist Prelate, who is also the Vice President of the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia (IRCL), reminded the gathering of Methodist Bishops, members of the Christian community and government officials that the church must move fast enlarge the vision, theological imagination, opportunities for emerging leaders and participation of women.  

He also wants the church to make meaningful contributions to education, health, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding, governance, and human development.  

“But we do not enlarge simply to become larger. We enlarge because the mission is larger than yesterday. We make room for people to encounter Christ. We make must room for young people to discover vocation. We must make room for girls who have been overlooked and for gifts that need to be included and we must make room for communities still waiting for Christ and for the Church to serve them,” the head of the churches in Liberia and the Baptist Church lectured.

The Church Must Engage

Bishop Reeves reminded the conference that vision alone isn’t the answer; it must move us into relationships, into partnerships, and into redemptive action.  

Bishop Reeves is of the conviction that with vision and collaboration, much of the world’s problems would be solved adequately.

“Poverty does not ask which church you attend. Violence does not ask which theology you hold. Migration does not respect national borders. Climate vulnerability does not recognize denominational boundaries. Youth unemployment does not distinguish between churches. Human suffering does not wait for us to settle our differences. Therefore, the Church must collaborate. Collaborate at the scale of the challenge,” he challenged members of the Methodist faith and Christians across Africa and the world.  

According to him, there must be conversations that lead to collaboration,

Collaboration that leads to coordination, coordination that leads to collective action and such collective action must give the Church credible influence.

“If a young person receives an education, our influence matters. If a family survives because the Church stood beside them, our influence matters. If a conflict ends because Christian leaders helped people find peace, our influence matters. If corruption is challenged because the Church found a prophetic voice, our influence matters. And if despair gives way to hope, a daring hope, our influence matters,” he furthered.

With young Africans already shaping the continent through technology, business, science, education, culture, politics, media, and civil society, he further challenged the Church to prepare them for those arenas.  

“We must disciple young people for vocation as well as for worship. We must disciple young people for vocation as well as for worship. We must develop leaders who can think critically, govern competently, communicate intelligently, innovate responsibly, and remain rooted in Christ Jesus.”  

“Women must have genuine opportunities to lead. Lay professionals must be partners in ministry and mission. Theological education must address the questions Africans are actually asking. We need people who can pray faithfully on Sunday and yet govern wisely on Monday.”   

The Church Must Endure

This growth or larger tent, he stated, needs stronger stakes and greater reach that requires deeper roots, and greater influence that requires greater integrity.  

He urged the Church to improve systems and strengthen institutions, financial transparency, accountability, governance, discipline, planning, responsible investment, entrepreneurship, endowment development, and strategic partnerships.  

“The African Church needs a deeper culture of ownership. External partners can help, but internal capacity must grow. We need resources generated, managed, invested, and multiplied so that mission can continue through changing circumstances,” Bishop Reeves advised.   

“Every bishop must eventually face one question: Who will be ready because you served? That is the question of legacy. Mentor your clergy. Empower women. Develop lay leaders. Strengthen theological institutions and prepare successors. A leader’s greatest contribution may be the leaders he or she develops after he or she is gone.” He among other things added.

Call For Steadfastness

Meanwhile, speaking earlier at a special Thanksgiving Service held at the First United Methodist Church on Sunday, August 31, 2026, Bishop L. Jonathan Holston of the Alabama West Florida Episcopal Area in the United States, called on worshippers to remain steadfast in faith and to root their lives in Christ’s teachings.

Bishop Holston asserted that the African church is no longer a mission outpost but “the epicenter of the worldwide church,” and as such, the continent stands in a season of preparation and transition.

He admonished believers, especially of the Methodist Church, to embrace three commitments: to love boldly, by widening the church’s welcome to a new generation without letting tribal divisions or regional politics narrow its reach; to serve joyfully, resisting fear and scarcity even amid economic uncertainty and global crises; and to lead courageously, strengthening spiritual foundations even as the church expands its influence.

At the same time, Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., Resident Bishop of the Liberia Episcopal Area and president of the West Africa College of Bishops, presided over and the conference.

He described Liberia as a mother figure in the history of African Methodism, telling the congregation that those who leave home always have reason to return and pay tribute. He also praised the Liberia Annual Conference’s resilience through past hardship.

Bishop Mande Muyombo, President of the Africa College of Bishops and Resident Bishop of the North Katanga Area, lauded Liberian United Methodists for their hospitality toward visiting delegations. He reaffirmed the church’s commitment to the Book of Discipline in guiding governance and marriage practices across Episcopal Areas, and urged members to remain united, faithful to Scripture, and devoted to the church’s mission despite ongoing challenges.

Clergyman Muyombo also announced that Bishop Ruben Saenz, president of the Council of Bishops, would arrive in Liberia on September 1, and invited the Liberia Episcopal Area to prepare a fitting welcome.

Also present were Conference Lay Leader Tolbert G. Nyenswah, Men’s President Samuel Swen Kun Jr., Women’s President Josephine Snorton, and delegations from the Youth and Young Adult Fellowship.

NEWARK, New Jersey — Cllr. Philomena T. Williams, President of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), has been elected Supreme Trustee of the Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Knights of St. John International. The election occurred during the Order’s 62nd International Convention, held August 2–9, 2026, in Newark, New Jersey.

Delegates from the United States, Africa, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean voted overwhelmingly to elevate Cllr. Williams, placing her among the highest-ranking women in the global Ladies’ Auxiliary. The Supreme Trustee role requires managing the Order’s assets with integrity, institutional knowledge, and constitutional fidelity—qualities delegates cited as hallmarks of her career.

Noble Sister Williams has served the Order for over 30 years, rising through every rank since her initiation in 1994 into St. Philomena Ladies’ Auxiliary #306. Her leadership includes roles as Supreme Subordinate President (2025–present), Supreme Subordinate 1st Vice President (2023–2025), Supreme Subordinate Treasurer (2019–2023), and Grand President of the Monrovia Grand Ladies’ Auxiliary (2011–2017).

She has also held numerous district and local offices, including Supreme Deputy Organizer, Grand Vice President, and President of her home auxiliary. Beyond the Order, Williams has been recognized as Mother of the Year for her embodiment of Catholic motherhood. She has led Catholic Women’s programs focused on spiritual retreats, catechetical formation, and charitable outreach.

Her mentorship of junior members remains a defining legacy, with many former protégés now serving as leaders themselves. As Special Envoy of the Supreme President to Sierra Leone, Noble Sister, Cllr. Williams successfully established the Supreme Subordinate Auxiliary in Freetown, expanding the Order’s international presence and strengthening fraternal ties across West Africa.

Delegates at the convention described her ascendancy as “well-earned” and “a blessing to the international body,” citing her transparent leadership, discipline, and commitment to unity among the Order’s three Grand Auxiliaries.

The Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Knights of St. John International, established in 1900 and formally organized in 1938, maintains members across the U.S., South America, Africa, Germany, the U.K., and Trinidad and Tobago. Williams’ election marks a historic achievement for Liberia’s jurisdiction, which continues to produce leaders who shape the Order’s global mission of charity, unity, and service.

Beyond The Knights:

Outside of the Knights of St. John International, Cllr. Philomena Tugbe Williams remains a prominent Liberian human rights advocate who serves as the President of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) and was re-elected in April 2025 to her second consecutive term.

She has dedicated her career to strengthening the rule of law, protecting vulnerable groups, and promoting survivor-centered justice. AFELL was established on February 10, 1994, in the midst of the First Liberian Civil War to systematically address severe abuses against women and children.

The association is composed exclusively of female legal practitioners—including lawyers, judges, and magistrates—who use their expertise to provide pro bono services. Cllr. Williams’ leadership has also boosted AFELL’s long-standing mandate to offer free legal representation, advice, and dispute resolution for marginalized populations and indigent individuals.

The institution drives national impact litigation, policy reforms, and tracking of gender-based violence cases. Her leadership has also been Instrumental in securing structural legal reforms in Liberia, notably including the passage of the Domestic Violence Act and modernized women’s inheritance laws.