—United Methodist Women Hold Regional Meetings to Strengthen Commitment Ahead of 2026 Conference
Amid the internal divisions and an evolving church landscape, the leadership of the Conference United Methodist Women’s Organization (CUMWO) of the Liberia Annual Conference (LAC/UMC) has embarked on a nationwide regional outreach to strengthen unity, provide reassurance, and reinforce commitment among members.
These efforts are part of the organization’s lead-up to its 2026 General Conference, scheduled for January.
The regional engagement, led by Interim President Josephine D. Snorton, aims to visit all districts across Liberia, ensuring that women of the United Methodist Church remain involved, informed, and spiritually grounded amid recent institutional challenges.
In an exclusive interview following a gathering in Region 1, Mth. Snorton emphasized the importance of reconnecting with local churches and fostering a renewed spirit of solidarity.
Purposeful Outreach in a Time of Uncertainty
“This regional meeting is part of a broader strategy to reach every district before the General Conference,” Mth. Snorton explained. “We divided this region into the three and we’ve already visited the Southeast Region two and Region 3. Seven churches participated today, and we’re happy with the turnout.”
The initiative reflects a deliberate effort by CUMWO to rally its members during a period marked by internal discontent and a noticeable decline in attendance in some congregations. Despite these challenges, Mth. Snorton remains optimistic.
“In ministry, people come and go, but we are not discouraged. Our focus is on retaining and empowering our women so they can serve God where He has called them,” she stated.
Addressing Challenges through Open Dialogue One of the main features of the meeting was a candid discussion of progress, failures, and ongoing challenges faced by various districts, Mth. Snorton noted that transparency and open communication were crucial to restoring trust.
“We gave updates from the women’s office and listened to reports from each district. At the end, we all reaffirmed our commitment to stay united and work for the growth of our church,” she said.
When asked about specific measures to address the setbacks experienced by some districts, she cited proactive outreach and logistical support. “Some districts had issues acquiring their conference kits. We urged them to secure those materials promptly and carry them to their respective areas. We also encouraged everyone to avoid finger-pointing, to pray for each other, and to keep our Methodist identity intact.”
Unity as the Central Message
According to her, the key takeaway from the meeting was one powerful message: unity. “The outcome of this meeting is unity. Unity today, unity tomorrow, unity forever. This is the only church we know. The United Methodist Church is our home,” she affirmed.
She also revealed plans for future engagements, including a major meeting in September at the central office where all district presidents and deans will gather to finalize plans for the upcoming conference.
A Message Rooted in Faith and Reaffirmation
As CUMWO continues its regional engagements, the leadership is reinforcing a singular message—remain steadfast, embrace reconciliation, and preserve the Methodist identity that binds their community.
Snorton concluded with a heartfelt appeal: “The message is simple: love the United Methodist Church, stay in the United Methodist Church. This is the only church we know, and we are grateful to be serving God here.”
Local Voices Echo Concerns and Renewed Hope
Mother Jamesetta Reeves, the CUMWO Coordinator for Grand Bassa District, also shared her reflections on the Region 1 meeting. Like many members, she acknowledged the emotional toll of recent church closures and leadership uncertainties.
“I was very worried about the state of our churches. Things were not clear, and it affected us deeply,” Toe admitted. “But the visit from our interim president changed things. She encouraged us and helped restore our hope.”
Mother Reeves pointed to the closing of churches as a major source of discouragement for members who had no clear direction at a time when spiritual leadership was most needed. However, she now sees a turning point.
“To those who left or are thinking about returning, I say this: the church still stands. Our doors are open. Come back. Let’s worship and rebuild together,” she urged.
The series of regional visits, culminating in the September planning session, is expected to set the tone for the 2026 Conference, with unity and resilience as the foundational themes.
Grand Bassa District Superintendent, Rev. Decontee A. Johnson however, lauded the women group for the initiative and emphasized the importance of unifying the group. According to the District Superintendent, the church will always be despite the challenges it has encounter, adding that the ability of the CUMWO to reunite the women again will make the United Methodist church great again.
Rev Johnson also used the occasion to call on all members of the LAC/UMC to remain steadfast as the church will rise again. “Don’t be moved by what people may say about the United Methodist Church, we are going to remain UMC” she declared.
