The Global Methodist Church (GMC) Liberia has pledged to establish itself as an indigenous, self-sustaining denomination, breaking away from what it described as the foreign-dependent model of the United Methodist Church (UMC).
At its first annual conference, held from July 7–14 in Ganta, Nimba County, church leaders set out a bold strategy for growth and independence under the theme: “Building an Indigenous Church for Christ.”
The event, officially named the Green Coast Global Methodist Conference, gathered delegates from across Liberia and international representatives, including a Nigerian delegation led by Bishop John Pina Auta, who presided over the gathering.
A key outcome of the conference was the appointment of Rev. Dr. Jerry P. Kulah as Superintendent of the Green Coast Annual Conference. Speaking at a press briefing in Monrovia, Bishop Kulah outlined four guiding pillars for the church’s mission: Evangelism, Discipleship, Church Planting, and Congregational Integration.
“We want to help people come to personal faith in Jesus Christ,” said Bishop Kulah. “We want to ensure they are properly discipled—to know why they believe what they believe—and help them become faithful followers. Once disciples, they are to be incorporated into congregations where they can use their God-given gifts and abilities.”
In a significant push for expansion, the GMC challenged attendees of its Church Planting Seminar to establish 241 new churches across Liberia within three years. Leaders acknowledged the ambitious target but expressed confidence it could be achieved through partnerships and spiritual dedication.
To support this vision, the conference launched a six-part Capital Campaign Project aimed at financial independence and sustainable growth. Members were encouraged to make monthly, quarterly, or annual pledges in addition to regular tithes.
Among the initiatives announced were the Evander Living Discipleship Trust and the Global Methodist Church School System, which Bishop Kulah said would ensure the denomination is “self-theologizing, self-disciplined, and self-sustaining at every level.”
Presiding elders, referred to as district supervisors in other traditions, have been tasked with leading church planting efforts, revitalizing existing congregations, and overseeing development projects within their regions.
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