MONROVIA, Liberia — At a time when public confidence in leadership is frequently tested, the decision by the Monrovia District Conference of the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church to honor former River Gee County Senator Comany A. Wesseh as its Father of the Year sends a message that extends far beyond Father’s Day celebrations.
Rather than recognizing political achievements alone, the Church used the occasion to highlight the enduring value of faith-based leadership, moral integrity, and national service—qualities organizers say have defined Wesseh’s life both in public office and within the Christian community.
The recognition, presented at Stephen Trowen Nagbe United Methodist Church in Sinkor, brought together church leaders, government officials, members of the diplomatic and legal communities, politicians, academics, and worshippers in a ceremony that celebrated fatherhood not merely as a family responsibility, but as a form of national leadership.
The event reflected a broader belief that Liberia’s future depends as much on the character of its leaders as on the policies they implement.
Delivering the keynote sermon under the theme “Quality of a Good Father,” retired Lutheran pastor Atty. Rev. Bartholomew Bioh Colley challenged fathers to measure success not by wealth or status, but by the values they leave behind.
“God calls every father to be an ambassador of Christ—leading his home with love, forgiveness, and righteousness,” Rev. Colley declared. “If you cannot stand for anything, you will stand for everything, and when you do, you stand for nothing.”
His message resonated throughout the gathering, emphasizing that genuine leadership begins with personal integrity before it reaches public office.
Rev. Colley also reflected on Wesseh’s contribution during one of Liberia’s darkest periods, recalling his active participation in peace negotiations that helped bring an end to the country’s fourteen-year civil conflict.
“Father Wesseh was not only engaged but actively involved in the negotiations that brought peace to our country after fourteen years of bloodshed,” he said. “Thank you, Father Wesseh.”
The acknowledgment positioned the honor within a broader national context, recognizing not only Wesseh’s role as a father and church leader but also his contribution to Liberia’s journey from conflict toward peace.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers repeatedly returned to one central idea: leadership is measured less by titles than by lasting influence.
Rev. Colley reminded fathers that while children may eventually forget the words spoken to them, they rarely forget the example set before them.
“Children may forget what a father says, but they will always remember the life he lives before them.”
That message echoed the purpose behind the award itself—celebrating a legacy built on service, faith, and responsibility.
Speaking on behalf of the Monrovia District Conference United Methodist Men Organization, President Father Gareson Bailey congratulated Wesseh and described the recognition as the district’s highest Father’s Day honor.
Resident Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr. also praised the former senator’s steadfast commitment to the mission of the Church and commended his continued example of servant leadership.
The occasion culminated with the presentation of a commemorative plaque honoring Wesseh’s faithful service to both God and humanity.
In his acceptance remarks, Wesseh reflected on the longstanding partnership between the Lutheran and United Methodist Churches, particularly their shared advocacy for peace during Liberia’s civil war.
He also addressed recent controversies surrounding the Church, cautioning against misinformation and emphasizing the importance of truth in preserving institutional unity.
“Lies can do great damage. Our Church has traveled a rocky road because of lies,” Wesseh said. “People have falsely accused our denomination regarding same-sex marriage. Marriage is between a man, a woman, and the state; the Church simply witnesses the ceremony.”
His remarks underscored another theme running throughout the ceremony—that truth, integrity, and reconciliation remain essential foundations for both the Church and the nation.
Wesseh also paid tribute to Associate Justice Jamestta H. Wolokollie, commending her professionalism and distinguished service to Liberia.
As prayers, tributes, and words of encouragement concluded the ceremony, the event left behind a message that reached beyond one individual or one denomination.
In honoring Comany A. Wesseh, the United Methodist Church was not simply recognizing a respected father. It was reaffirming the belief that lasting leadership is built on faith, sacrifice, moral conviction, and service to others.
At a time when Liberia continues to confront social, political, and ethical challenges, the recognition serves as a reminder that the strongest legacies are often shaped not by political victories alone, but by lives dedicated to peace, integrity, and the quiet responsibility of leading by example.
