The United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia has expressed serious concerns regarding the recent invitation extended by Rev. Dr. Jerry Kulah to United Methodist Churches (UMCs) in Liberia to participate in an event hosted by the Global Methodist Church (GMC) in Liberia. This action, according to the church, contravenes established church policies set forth by the United Methodist Church’s Judicial Council in its August 2022 ruling (Decision 1449).
“The Liberia Annual Conference (LAC) considers this invitation as an act of provocation and an open challenge to the unity and doctrinal integrity of the UMC in Liberia. The invitation is ‘an agitation and open confrontation’. Accordingly, the LAC is informing all United Methodist Churches listed in the invitation not to participate in activities convened by the Global Methodist Church in Liberia—a newly mile that have been established for over two decades—and, in some cases, for more than a century,” a release, signed by Rev. Caleb S. G Dormah, Director, At-Risk Youth Ministry, Liberia Annual Conference, United Methodist Church, observed.
According to the release, in November 2024, the United Methodist Church (UMC) suspended Rev. Dr. Kulah for violations of Paragraph 2702.1 (c, d, e, & f) of the UMC Book of Discipline. These violations include promoting the agenda of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), a breakaway denomination, and undermining the teachings, unity, and policies of the UMC.
The release noted, “According to the Book of Discipline, ‘Only the Council of Bishops has the authority to enter into ecumenical agreements with other Christian bodies, and these agreements must be approved by the General Conference.’ Since the GMC is not recognized as an official ecumenical partner by the UMC, any formal engagement between the two institutions is contrary to church policy.
“The Judicial Council has explicitly stated that ‘the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church have no ecumenical relationship and should have no dealings until such time as one is officially established.’”
The release further noted, “Rev. Dr. Kulah’s actions, including his recent invitation to UMC churches, are viewed as ‘counterproductive and in violation of United Methodist Church policies on ecumenical relations’. The denomination remains committed to upholding its teachings and preserving unity within its global connection.
“United Methodist members and the broader Liberian public should be aware that the activities of Dr. Jerry Kulah and his associates are a sham— under the pretense of organizing a church denomination.’ Moreover, United Methodists should understand that church properties illegally occupied by the GMC, Independent Methodist, and other factions are being gradually reclaimed by the United Methodist Church through lawful means.
“The United Methodist Church affirms we will not rest until all UMC properties are repossessed through the laws of the Republic of Liberia.
“Dr. Kulah is strongly urged to cease such maneuvers, which the Church considers unlawful, counterproductive, and disruptive to the peace and unity of the United Methodist Church. These actions have already demonstrated the potential to incite disorder, and continued defiance will inevitably lead to further chaos if Dr. Kulah and his associates fail to desist.
“He is reminded that founding a new organization under the cooperative laws of the Republic of Liberia requires adherence to the legal and ethical standards that govern the Christian community—and demands a clear departure from any form of lawlessness.
“We admonish Dr. Kulah and all who have left the UMC to join the GMC which is now registered since January 23, 2025 and was launched on February 14, 2025 to go in peace. We bless your new faith journey. Go in peace. Let it be a journey with Jesus.”
