Freetown, Sierra Leone — At a time when the global Christian community faces growing division and distraction, Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., President of the West Africa Regional Conference of The United Methodist Church (WARC-UMC), has issued a heartfelt appeal for spiritual renewal grounded in genuine, brotherly love.
Addressing clergy and laity during the 146th Annual Session of the Sierra Leone Annual Conference, Bishop Quire urged believers to return to the heartbeat of Christian witness—unity rooted in love. He emphasized that love is not a sentimental ideal but a divine command that sustains the Church’s life and mission.
“Unity,” he noted, “does not emerge by chance; it thrives where hearts are patient, humble, and forgiving.” Drawing inspiration from Psalm 133, he likened shared love to sacred oil that brings healing and renewal wherever it flows.
The Bishop warned that division and self-interest weaken the Church’s testimony, while love strengthens faith communities and revives worship. “Our greatest testimony,” he said, “is not what we build or achieve, but how we love one another.”
Quire’s message resonated as both a caution and a call—to rise above personal and institutional rifts, practice reconciliation, and nurture relationships that reflect the unity of God’s own nature. He reminded the gathering that lasting spiritual vitality can only emerge where believers dwell, not merely visit, in love.
The conference, held at Bishop Baughman Memorial United Methodist Church in Freetown, drew hundreds of participants and church leaders from across West Africa, including Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel and Rev. Dr. Jean Claude Masuka of the General Board of Global Ministries.
