Liberian bishop calls for women’s inclusion

Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr. is calling on all United Methodists in Liberia to be an example of inclusiveness in the execution of its programs and other activities that will include women.

“The United Methodist Church should continue to support and empower women in all of its structure,” said Quire, who leads the Liberian Episcopal Area.

In an episcopal message titled “Message For International Women’s Month,” Quire has directed the entire church to dedicate the Month of March to all women, and called on all United Methodists in Liberia to commence celebrations in their schools, churches and districts throughout March 2017.

Liberian Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr. and his wife, Richlain K. Quire, are honored during the 184th annual session of Liberia Annual Conference in Ganta, Liberia. Photo by Julu Swen, UMNS.

“Women are important to the family. Women care for, nurture and work hard for children to become successful and responsible citizens,” he said. He also pointed out that in the churches and districts, the most vibrant organizations are women’s organizations. “I urge us all to eliminate those vices that have created divisions in our society, including those impacting the lives of women,” he added.  

Quire further pointed out that there are many discriminatory practices in the society against women. “We need to genuinely work to remove all barriers so that we can have a more inclusive and prosperous society,” said Quire, who was elected bishop on Dec. 17, 2016.

The episcopal leader has directed that appropriate schoolwide assemblies and devotions be held to discuss and highlight the work and achievements of women in the society in every United Methodist learning institution. “Focus on what students, parents, school administrators and others must do to be respectful and appreciative of the role of women,” Quire affirmed.

Quire said celebration is only the first step: The church should create conducive environments that will create supportive setting for girls and women to thrive — free from all forms of harassment such as sexual favors or coercion to do favors that are not acceptable in Christian settings.

He urged churches to engage in worship services through teaching and preaching for all United Methodists to know, understand and feel that our collective responsibility to women is not lip service. “We need our clergy to foster, support and lead our congregations in ways that demonstrate to our mothers, aunts, wives, sisters and daughters that they are partners in everything we do,” he said.

Swen is a communicator in Liberia. News media contact: Vicki Brown, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or [email protected]

News media contact: Vicki Brown, news editor, [email protected] or 615-742-5469. To read more United Methodist news, subscribe to the free Daily or Weekly Digests.