The Episcopal Church of Liberia has welcomed a new phase of leadership in the Lofa, Bong, and Nimba (LOBONI) region with the official assumption of office by the Right Reverend Wilmot Merchant, II, as Suffragan Bishop.
Bishop Merchant officially began his regional leadership responsibilities during a special service held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Gbarnga, Bong County, where Episcopalians from Bong and Nimba counties gathered at the historic occasion.
He pledged to provide committed leadership, strengthen relationships among church members, and support the continued growth of the Episcopal Church throughout the three counties.
Bishop Merchant spoke about the establishment of a new diocese in the LOBONI region as one of his major priorities, noting that such an effort would help strengthen the administration, coordination, and expansion of the Episcopal Church in Lofa, Bong, and Nimba counties.
Bishop Merchant, a native of Bong County, and graduate of Cuttington University, is expected to bring his experience, and understanding of the region to his new role as he works with clergy, congregations, and church leaders.
The installation ceremony attracted Episcopal leaders, clergy members, and worshipers, who described the event as a significant milestone for the church in the region.
Following his engagement in Gbarnga, Bishop Merchant traveled to Lofa County on Monday, July 27, where he held an acquaintance meeting with Episcopal churches, and clergy members.
The engagement allowed him as a new Suffragan Bishop to interact with church leaders, build stronger relationships, and outline his vision to advance the work of the Episcopal Church across the LOBONI region.
As he begins his tenure, Bishop Merchant is expected to focus on promoting spiritual growth, strengthening church unity, and supporting initiatives that will increase the impact of the Episcopal Church in the three counties.
