House Begins UMC Conflict Hearing
There were more startling revelations into the continuous conflict of the United Methodist Church (UMC) as representatives of the church appeared before the House Committee on Peace and Reconciliation on Monday, August 18, 2025.
The hearing comes on the heel of endless fight over allegation of endorsing same sex marriage (man marring man) at the level of the UMC in the country.
This followed a communication from Maryland County District #2 Representative Anthony Williams.
In his communication, Williams called on his colleagues in plenary to engage the Resident Bishop of the UMC, Reverend Samuel J. Quire, and the President of the (LCC) Liberia Council of Churches, Reverend Samuel B. Reeves, to clarify whether the church is aligned with the 2024 general conference of the global UMC, which lifted the ban on same-sex marriages and LGBTQ clergy.
He contended that Liberia’s Constitution obliges lawmakers to defend the nation “cultural heritage and the sanctity of family life,” while acknowledging Article 14’s guarantee of religious freedom.
He stressed that practices “contrary to public morality and law,” cannot be tolerated.
During the public hearing, the church through its designated representatives that included former River Gee County Senator, Commany B. Wesseh, dismissed such claims.
Wesseh, a ranking member of the UMC denied accusation that the denomination has endorsed same-sex marriage as contended by dissenting members.
On behalf of the church, he termed the report as “false, misleading, and damaging” to the church and the country image.
Mr. Wesseh said the accusations were rooted in misinformation and misinterpretation of the church true values.
“This is a serious issue of misinformation. To say that the church that is far older than the country and one that has produced many national leaders, has endorsed gay practices is ‘false and misleading.’
It is inconsistent with our national laws and inconsistent with our culture. This has never happened and will never happen,” he assured.
The official emphasized that the UMC in the country remains aligned with national law and cultural values, and will not sanction same-sex marriage, thus averring that these claims are clouded around the church properties.