MONROVIA – In a ceremony filled with emotion, gratitude, and a strong sense of purpose, the Grain Coast Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church on Wednesday signed a landmark lease agreement that is expected to redefine its presence and operations in Liberia.
The agreement, sealed in the Lakpazee Community, Airfield Sinkor, secures a four-story facility for the church for an initial period of fifteen years, with an option for renewal, offering what church leaders describe as long-awaited stability after years of operating under temporary arrangements.
The signing ceremony, held at the historic Barnes Foundation School where the church has been hosting its activities, drew clergy, members, and partners who gathered to witness what many described as a turning point for the denomination’s mission in the country.
A Long-Awaited Breakthrough
For years, the Global Methodist Church in Liberia has navigated the uncertainty of not having a permanent base for its growing operations. Wednesday’s agreement is therefore being viewed not merely as a property transaction but as a strategic milestone in consolidating its ministry.
The lease was signed between the church and property owners Father David Farhat and Rev. Rose Farhat, whose partnership church leaders hailed as both timely and transformative.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Rev. Dr. Jerry P. Kulah, Country Superintendent of the Global Methodist Church in Liberia, underscored the broader significance of the development.
“Today is not just about a building,” Rev. Kulah declared. “It is about the future of ministry in Liberia. We are deeply grateful to the Farhat family for opening this door for us.”
He assured stakeholders that the facility would be preserved and utilized strictly for Christian purposes, emphasizing that the church remains committed to its spiritual mandate.
“We commit ourselves to ensuring that this facility is preserved and used strictly for Christian purposes, reflecting the values and mission of the Church,” he added.
Partnership Rooted in Faith
In their response, Father David Farhat and Rev. Rose Farhat expressed confidence in the leadership and direction of the Global Methodist Church, describing the lease agreement as the beginning of a broader partnership anchored on shared values.
Father Farhat noted that their decision to support the church was driven by its demonstrated commitment to faith-based service and community impact.
“We are encouraged by the commitment and leadership of the Global Methodist Church,” he said. “This partnership is just the beginning. We are willing to do even more, as long as the Church continues to uphold Christian dignity and remains faithful to its calling.”
Rev. Rose Farhat echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the envisioned role of the facility beyond worship.
“We believe this space will not only serve as a place of worship but also as a center of transformation for the community,” she said. “Our desire is to see lives changed and strengthened, and we are ready to support that vision in every way we can.”
In a further demonstration of trust and support, she disclosed plans to entrust the church with the Barnes Foundation School facility at the end of the current academic year.
Expanding Mission and Community Impact
Church officials indicated that the newly leased building will serve as a multifunctional hub, accommodating worship services, leadership development programs, administrative offices, and community outreach initiatives.
The move is expected to significantly enhance the church’s ability to coordinate its activities and expand its reach across communities in Monrovia and beyond.
Leaders say the decision to dedicate the facility exclusively to Christian purposes reflects a broader commitment to maintaining the integrity of the church’s mission while responding to growing demand for spiritual guidance and social support.
Symbol of Resilience and Growth
For many members of the Grain Coast Annual Conference, the moment carried deep symbolic meaning—representing not only expansion but also resilience after years of uncertainty.
Having operated in borrowed and temporary spaces, the church community now sees the acquisition of a long-term facility as validation of its perseverance and faith.
Observers at the ceremony described the atmosphere as one of renewed optimism, with members expressing confidence that the development will usher in a new phase of growth and stability.
A New Chapter Begins
As the event drew to a close, there was a shared recognition that the agreement marks more than just the signing of a lease; it signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Global Methodist Church in Liberia.
With a secured base of operations and strengthened partnerships, the church is now positioning itself to deepen its impact, strengthen its institutional presence, and extend its mission of faith, service, and community transformation across the country.
For the faithful gathered in Lakpazee, the message was clear: what began as a hope has now become a foundation.