The Global Methodist Church Bishop, Dr. Jerry P. Kula, recently visited Nimba County to express gratitude to local members and leaders for their loyalty and support during the church crisis. The visit, which took place on Friday, September 25, was publicized heavily on community radio stations. However, despite the publicity, Bishop Kula was poorly received in both Ganta and Sanniquellie. The bishop's visit aimed to strengthen ties between the national leadership and county congregations.
Bishop Kula's election as the leader of the Global Methodist Church, a breakaway faction of the United Methodist Church, followed doctrinal and governance disagreements within the United Methodist Church. The church crisis in Liberia resulted in the formation of three branches: the United Methodist Church, the Global Methodist Church, and the Independent Methodist Church. Each branch is expected to have its own bishop, with Bishop Kula leading the Global Methodist Church.
During his visit, Bishop Kula encouraged continued unity among congregations in Nimba County and reaffirmed the Global Methodist Church's commitment to pastoral care and spiritual guidance while the legal process continues. The visit helped to boost the morale of local members, who are facing uncertainty about the church's legal status. The case before the Supreme Court will influence how leadership and property disputes are resolved for congregations aligned with the breakaway group.
The Global Methodist Church has claimed land and property previously associated with the United Methodist Church, leading to a dispute over ownership pending before Liberia's Supreme Court. Members of the Independent Methodist Church say they are not occupying those properties. The church's financial situation is also a concern, with members reporting that promised international scholarships, travel opportunities, and financial support have not materialized.
The district office of the Global Methodist Church in Ganta, where the district superintendent and other executives are based, has fallen into disrepair. As a result, officials are using private homes as temporary offices. The building's condition reflects the challenges faced by the church in maintaining its infrastructure.
The Global Methodist Church had planned to take over the Ganta United Methodist Hospital by February 2026, but the transfer has not occurred. Some Methodists say the split was driven in part by internal power struggles over leadership positions, including bishoprics. Both sides await the Supreme Court's decision regarding property ownership and related claims.
Despite the challenges, Bishop Kula's visit was seen as timely and morale-boosting by supporters. Local church officials said the visit helped to strengthen ties between the national leadership and county congregations. The Global Methodist Church's commitment to pastoral care and spiritual guidance has been reaffirmed, and members are awaiting the outcome of the Supreme Court's decision.
Key points
- The Global Methodist Church's visit to Nimba County was poorly received despite heavy radio publicity.
- The church faces uncertainty about its legal status and financial challenges.
- The Supreme Court's decision on property ownership will significantly impact the church's leadership and positions.
