Bishop Samuel Quire Reaffirms United Methodist Church Liberia’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage Amid Growing Speculation

As rumors surrounding the United Methodist Church’s stance on homosexuality continue to spread, Bishop Samuel Quire of UMC Liberia has firmly distanced the local church from any endorsement of same-sex marriage. The bishop, who has come under fire due to recent claims that a gay marriage took place in one of the church’s branches, addressed these concerns directly in a press conference on Monday.

In his statement, Bishop Quire clarified that while the UMC in the United States has made strides towards accepting same-sex marriage following a decision at this year’s annual conference, UMC Liberia has not made any such move. “Our church here in Liberia remains committed to our traditional beliefs,” he emphasized. “There has been no decision, and no acceptance of homosexuality or same-sex marriage within our congregation.”

The U.S. chapter of the United Methodist Church has granted its international branches an 18-month window to decide on their stance regarding same-sex marriage, following their decision earlier this year to allow it. However, Bishop Quire was clear in stating that UMC Liberia has no intention of endorsing or accepting same-sex marriage, reaffirming the church’s traditional values in the face of mounting speculation.

“The decision in the U.S. does not reflect our position here in Liberia,” Bishop Quire continued. “We are aware of the global shifts in conversations around these issues, but the UMC Liberia remains rooted in our commitment to the biblical principles we have always upheld.”

As conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and same-sex marriage gain momentum globally, tensions within the church have heightened. Many members of the UMC in Liberia are concerned about the future of the church and its identity amidst these changes. For Bishop Quire, the priority is to ensure that the values of the Liberian church are preserved, even as the broader church navigates more progressive waters.

Bishop Quire’s address comes at a time when the global Methodist community is grappling with diverse views on same-sex relationships. His clear stance is likely to provide some reassurance to the conservative majority within UMC Liberia, as the church continues to face internal and external pressures. The coming months may prove crucial as various branches around the world deliberate on their paths forward, but for UMC Liberia, the message is clear: no endorsement of same-sex marriage.