ST Nagbe UMC Closed!!
. . . As Methodist Trouble Deepens
The ‘satanic’ troubling situations at Methodist Churches have entered another phase with the closure of Stephen Trowen (ST) Nagbe in Sinkor, outside Monrovia.
It is due to the enduring crisis, some church goers, on condition of anonymity, said the executive committee expressed regret to the public for whatever wrongs any members have committed against God.
In the aftermath of the imbroglio, the executive committee of the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC), “expresses its deep concern and sorrow over the recent troubling events that have unfolded at ST Nagbe UMC in Monrovia.”
The incidents of the past two consecutive Sundays, including the “disruption of worship, interruption of Holy Communion, and hostile behavior toward duly appointed pastors, are unprecedented and deeply disappointing.”
These actions, the church said, stand in direct opposition to the “teachings of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the values that the UMC holds sacred.”
Methodist’s sacred are peace, love, accountability, order and mutual respect.
“S.T. Nagbe UMC is not just any congregation. It bears the name of the first Liberian Bishop Stephen Trowen Nagbe, and it is in close proximity to the seat of the LAC. Its spiritual and historical importance is invaluable, making the current unrest even more grievous, the church said in a release.
Affirmation of Doctrine
The church added: “Since the conclusion of the 2020–2024 General Conference of UMC, the LAC, alongside all other African conferences, has reaffirmed its position on marriage as a union between one man and one woman.”
This means, Methodists, specifically, the UMC-Liberia, will not condone the practices of gay or lesbianism.
The doctrine of one man, one wife, according to the release, is consistent with the Book of Discipline and country’s laws.
The released said: “A new Book of Discipline reflecting this affirmation is being prepared for publication.”
Despite this clarity, misinformation, disinformation, and misrepresentation have spread among some congregations, causing confusion, fear and conflict.
At S.T. Nagbe UMC, this has escalated into violent conduct, rejection of leadership, and unlawful attempts to align the church with the Global Methodist Church (GMC).
While the Bishop, District Superintendent and pastors have made repeated efforts to mediate and reconcile, a small group has continued to disrupt worship, ignore spiritual authority, and block orderly meetings, rendering further charge conferences ineffective.
Executive Actions Authorized
It is based on the troubling events, the church took a decision to seal it premises that will be sealed to “protect life, property and sacred space, pending an official investigation by LAC of the UMC.”
Relocation of Worship:
In the prevailing situation, the church has announced that: “All worship and church activities are to be temporarily moved to other United Methodist churches.”
Disciplinary Action:
“Individuals involved in misconduct will face charges under paragraph 2702.1 of the Book of Discipline, with proceedings guided by paragraph 2706.”
Reopening Review: “The bishop, cabinet, and appointed pastors will decide when it is appropriate to resume services at the church.”
Leadership Oversight: “The senior pastor, with the district superintendent, is authorized to appoint acting officers for all church auxiliaries during this period.”
Broader Use: “These measures may also be applied to other UMC congregations facing similar disturbances across the country.”
During this period, the release said: “we call upon all members, especially those involved in the conflict to reflect prayerfully on their actions and recommit to the teachings and governance of the UMC.”
“Let us not allow our differences to become weapons of division. Instead, let us pursue reconciliation, humility, and healing.”
“UMC has weathered many storms. We are confident that, with God’s guidance, truth, peace, and justice will prevail. We urge all clergies, laities, and church leaders across the LAC to lift S.T. Nagbe UMC in prayer and support efforts aimed at restoring peace, order and spiritual vitality.”
“May God grant us the wisdom to discern His will, the peace to calm our spirits and the strength to remain faithful through this difficult moment,” the release concluded.