Monrovia, Liberia – July 20, 2025 — In a strategic move to strengthen youth engagement and leadership development within the church, the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC) successfully hosted a three-day Capacity Building and Leadership Formation Seminar from July 4–6, 2025, at the Lott G. Matthew United Methodist Church in Topoe Village, Monrovia.
The seminar, themed “Leadership Growth, Mobilization, and Discipleship,” brought together 65 youth officials from 19 districts across Liberia. The intensive event was designed to equip young leaders with spiritual grounding, practical skills, and administrative competencies to serve effectively in both church and civic spaces.
Leadership Development as Church Strategy
The seminar reflected a broader vision of the UMC to empower youth as transformative agents in sustaining the church’s legacy and shaping Liberia’s future. Through a combination of presentations, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and spiritual revivals, the participants were immersed in a leadership framework that emphasized character, discipline, and service.
Opening sessions featured insights from Father P. EmEmery Harris, Director of Connectional Ministries, and Jeremiah S. Swen, Associate Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Their presentations focused on preserving United Methodism’s identity, drawing attention to the denomination’s history, mission, and beliefs. They also highlighted the pivotal role of youth in conflict mitigation and spreading the flames of Methodism in a society grappling with post-war reconciliation.
A standout voice during the seminar was Mr. Winston Varwulo, a youth leader from Gbarnga District, who spoke passionately on the dynamics of leaders and leadership. Drawing from personal experiences, he offered a relatable and motivational roadmap for participants navigating the complexities of spiritual and organizational leadership.
Equipping for Accountability and Governance
On the second day, attention shifted to the financial and administrative responsibilities of youth ministries. Bro. Cephas William, Finance Manager of DGEM, and Bro. Bill Innis, President of the Conference United Methodist Young Adult Fellowship (CUMYAF), led critical sessions on financial stewardship and accountability, arming youth leaders with practical tools to manage church resources responsibly.
Breakout sessions, led by Bro. Swen, engaged participants in mind mapping, strategic planning, and program implementation tailored to their district-specific contexts. These sessions encouraged reflection and initiative, resulting in action plans that align with both church priorities and community needs.
The seminar also addressed church regionalization, with seasoned panelists such as Cllr. Dr. Tolbert Nyenswah, Conference Lay Leader, Dr. Julu Swen, and Rev. Cllr. Albert Knight, discussing structural shifts in church governance and the theological imperative for decentralized ministry. Their contributions linked doctrinal values with administrative reforms.
A New Generation of Leaders Commissioned
The seminar culminated with a spiritually charged induction service officiated by Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., Resident Bishop of the LAC/UMC. The ceremony marked the official installation of the Interim Leadership Team of the Conference Young Adult Fellowship, ushering in a new era of youth leadership.
In his charge to the newly elected leaders, Bishop Quire emphasized humility, vision, and Christ-centered service. He challenged them to “shine their light in the community” and to lead with both conviction and compassion.
The newly inducted interim leadership team includes:
- President: Bro. Winston S.K. Varwulo
- 1st Vice President: Bro. Charles W. James
- 2nd Vice President: Bro. Austine K. Kumeh
- General Secretary: Bro. Jeremiah K. Weah, Jr.
- Assistant Secretary: Bro. Andrew W. Tarr
- Financial Secretary: Bro. Jerry G. S. Tinnie
- Treasurer: Sis. Victoria Myers
In his acceptance remarks, President Varwulo issued a call for unity and reconciliation, encouraging all members to “return and rebuild together.” He acknowledged past tensions but urged the youth to respect leadership and work collectively for the advancement of the church.
Sustained Support and the Path Ahead
Rev. S. Snoh Myers Sr., Director of the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, reaffirmed institutional support for the new leadership team. He stressed the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and ongoing training, signaling the department’s long-term commitment to youth development.
The seminar concluded on Sunday with a recommitment service, leaving participants spiritually renewed and organizationally equipped. As the LAC/UMC charts a new path forward, the investment in youth leadership signals a strategic pivot toward sustainability and growth through the next generation.
