—– UMC West Africa Conference Denies Rev. Jerry Kulah, Others Entry
IPNEWS: The West Africa College of Bishops has elected Bishop Samuel Jerome Quire Jr. as its new President during a significant gathering held in Accra, Ghana. Bishop Quire, a revered spiritual leader and advocate for community development, assumes this prestigious role at a critical time for the United Methodist Church in the region.
Bishop Quire, who currently serves as the Resident Bishop for the Liberia Episcopal Area, brings decades of experience in church leadership and social justice advocacy. His election is seen as a recognition of his commitment to uniting diverse communities and addressing pressing societal issues, including education, health care, and environmental preservation.
In addition to Bishop Quire’s election, the conference also welcomed two newly elected bishops:
Bishop Ande Emmanuel from Nigeria, a seasoned church leader known for his focus on youth empowerment and interfaith dialogue.
Bishop James Boye Calker, now presiding over the Sierra Leone Episcopal Area, recognized for his contributions to peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts in post-conflict Sierra Leone.
A Vision for the Future
As President of the West Africa College of Bishops, Bishop Quire will oversee the coordination of United Methodist Church activities across the region. His priorities are expected to include strengthening regional partnerships, enhancing theological education, and fostering sustainable community development.
In his acceptance speech, Bishop Quire emphasized the importance of unity and faith in addressing the challenges facing the church and its communities. “Together, we can lead with purpose and bring transformation to our congregations and the communities we serve,” he stated.
Regional Significance
The West Africa College of Bishops plays a vital role in shaping the spiritual and administrative direction of the United Methodist Church across the region. The election of Bishop Quire and the new bishops signals a renewed commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in West Africa.
The event in Accra has left the United Methodist community with high hopes for a future marked by growth, inclusivity, and impactful ministry under the leadership of Bishop Quire and his fellow bishops.
Earlier Saturday, December 7, at the start of the United Methodist Church , 10th Quadrennial Session of the West Africa Central Conference (WACC) of (UMC), held in Accra, Ghana, affiliates of the Global Methodist Church (GMC) were denied entry.
The authoritative The Independent Probe Newspaper can confirm that those turned away were Rev. Dr. Jerry P. Kulah UMU suspended VP ,Rev George Wilson, and Rev Dr.Isaac Chukpue-Padmore,, along with other suspended members from the Liberia Annual Conference.
Sources in high places of the conference disclosed that Rev. Kulah and others were denied participation to the ongoing Conference in the Ghanaian Capitol on grounds that they are facing investigation following their suspension from the United Methodist Church of Liberia and the Liberia Annual Conference activities.
Grounds for Denial
The individuals were reportedly barred on the grounds of their suspension from the UMC in Liberia, where they are under investigation for alleged violations of church policies. These actions are tied to their involvement with the Global Methodist Church, a breakaway denomination formed amidst the ongoing denominational split within the global Methodist community.
The decision to deny their entry reflects the WACC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and unity of the UMC amidst these challenges. According to sources at the conference, the suspended members’ attendance would have contravened the church’s standing rules regarding participation by individuals under disciplinary action.
Background on Suspensions
The denied individuals have been accused of advocating for and facilitating the transition of UMC congregations to the Global Methodist Church, actions that are seen as divisive within the UMC. In response, the Liberia Annual Conference initiated disciplinary measures, including suspensions and investigations, to address these concerns.
Reaction and Implications
The exclusion of the Global Methodist surrogates has gain weight as supporters of the decision argue that it was necessary to safeguard the unity of the conference and prevent disruptions to its proceedings.
“Those who are denied cannot be in the Church and denigrate the Church. They should stay out of the UMC Conference and its activities and submit themselves to the investigative committee,” an anonymous source.
This development highlights the broader tensions within the global Methodist family, as the denomination grapples with doctrinal disputes, property concerns, and leadership realignments.
Resolution At The Conference
A resolution is on the way to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman in line with the holy bible and traditional and state laws in Africa and Liberia is of no exception.
Focus on the Conference’s Agenda
Despite the controversy, the WACC continues its deliberations with a focus on unity and mission under the theme “By Your Spirit, Make Us One with Christ, One with Each Other, One in Service to the World.” The conference aims to address critical issues, including leadership transitions, mission strategies, and the role of the church in fostering social and spiritual transformation across West Africa.
As the Methodist Church navigates these turbulent times, the decisions made at this session will significantly influence its direction in the years to come. The exclusion of suspended members underscores the church’s resolve to address internal challenges while maintaining its mission-driven focus.
