The Monrovia District of the Lutheran Church of Liberia ended its 12th Annual Convention Sunday, held at the St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Wood Camp, Paynesville, outside Monrovia.
The convention, which was held under the theme, “Making a New Beginning”, Isaiah 43:18 and 19, brought together nine parishes of the Monrovia District: Reed Memorial Parish, David A. Day Parish, St. Peter’s Parish, Barnersvile Parish, Good Shepherd Parish, St. Matthew Parish, St. Andrew Parish, Christ Lutheran Parish and Trinity Parish.
Speaking at the convention, the Dean of the Monrovia District of the Lutheran Church of Liberia, Rev. Robert S. Gonoe, challenged the church in Liberia to change with positive attitude towards people surrounding them.
Rev. Gonoe stated that Liberians need to share with their fellow men and women in the society, noting that Jesus will say to people on judgement day, “Depart from me, I do not know you,” if they fail to help each other on Earth.
According to him, pastors in the rural areas of Liberia are living under difficult conditions in their effort to spread the Gospel to the people—more than people in the urban areas. He said they therefore need to be supported.
He noted that “believers do not abide by God’s instructions but God continues to show mercy on us as well as bless His people”.
Rev. Gonoe underscored that Liberians making a new beginning is about mindset towards the church, country and people: transforming their minds in the strong socio-economic development building of the nation and the people.
He maintained that transparency and accountability should be hallmarks to change the living standard of Liberians.
Rev. Gonoe pointed out that corruption in the church, government and private sector is undermining the growth and development of every sector in the nation, and Liberians should desist from such an ugly act.
Rev. Gonoe asserted that people have a very short time to live on earth, yet they want to accumulate so much through corrupt acts that deny others of their just benefits in the society.
He explained that it is about time for Liberians to extend assistance to other Liberians who cannot afford financially in communities across the nation.
According to him, what makes a man great is his extending a helping hand to other people—and not those who have but refuse to extend their hands.
Rev. Gonoe assured Liberians that no matter how difficult things are God will restore their hope once again, noting that He is the same God of yesterday, today and forever, and that He can never change.