The Liberia Annual Conference of the The United Methodist Church has intensified efforts to strengthen unity and reduce internal tensions by launching a major peace and reconciliation initiative in Nimba County, amid ongoing discussions surrounding church regionalization.
The day-long workshop, held in Ganta at Suasan Potter Hall within the Gompa United Methodist Mission Station, shifted attention from doctrinal debates toward a broader conversation about communication, unity, and the future direction of the church in Liberia.
The training gathered members from local congregations across the Gompa District Conference and focused on equipping participants with tools to address misinformation, promote reconciliation, and better understand the implications of regionalization within the church structure.
Facilitators at the event stressed that periods of institutional change often require stronger dialogue and clearer communication to prevent misunderstandings from escalating into division.
Among the speakers was Bro. Jefferson B. Knight, Director of the Human Rights Department of the Liberia Annual Conference, who emphasized that regionalization presents an opportunity for African churches to strengthen local identity while remaining aligned with the broader mission and constitutional framework of the denomination.
Knight noted that preserving peace within the church remains essential during moments of transition, warning that misinformation and disinformation can create uncertainty and deepen divisions among members if left unaddressed.
The sessions also featured discussions led by Rev. Agripa Hinneh, Vice President for Administration at the College of West Africa, and Bro. Charles Gbayor, Press Secretary to the Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference. Presentations centered on effective communication strategies, reconciliation efforts, and the wider impact of regionalization on church communities in Liberia and across Africa.
District Superintendent Rev. Patrick Lougan described the workshop as timely, saying the church must continue building understanding among members as conversations surrounding regionalization evolve.
He encouraged participants to serve as agents of peace within their churches and communities, stressing that the church’s mission can only advance in an atmosphere of mutual respect and unity.
Mission Station Superintendent Bro. Benedict Domah also praised the initiative, describing the training as both practical and necessary at a time when many church members are seeking clarity on emerging institutional developments.
Participants at the event echoed similar sentiments, with many describing the discussions as educational and relevant. Several pledged to return to their congregations prepared to encourage responsible communication and help counter false narratives that could undermine harmony within the church.
As discussions around regionalization continue to unfold, church leaders appear increasingly focused on ensuring that conversations surrounding change do not overshadow the broader goals of faith, unity, and reconciliation.
