Calls Faithful Ministry A Legacy Worth Celebrating
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Resident Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church (LAC/UMC), Rev. Dr. Samuel J. Quire Jr., has paid glowing tribute to retired Lutheran clergy Rev. Bartholome B. Colley, describing his decades of ministry as a remarkable example of faithfulness, perseverance, and dedication to God’ service and humanity.
During a special retirement service held in honor of the veteran church leader, Bishop Quire delivered a sermon titled “Honoring a Faithful Servant: Finishing the Race with Joy.”
He emphasized that retirement from active ministry does not mark the end of Christian service but rather the beginning of a new season of witness, mentorship, prayer, and encouragement.
Bishop Quire reflected on the Apostle Paul’s declaration: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” He noted that the occasion was not merely a celebration of retirement but a recognition of a life devoted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“Today, we celebrate faithfulness, sacrifice, commitment, and divine calling,” Bishop Quire declared. “The true measure of ministry is not popularity or position, but faithfulness to God’s call. Retirement does not erase legacy.”
The United Methodist Bishop reflected on the lifelong journey of ministry, noting that every servant of God begins with a divine call and is sustained by God’s grace through both joyful and challenging seasons. He commended Rev. Colley for responding faithfully to God’s call and dedicating many years to preaching, teaching, counseling, and shepherding God’s people.
Bishop Quire highlighted the lasting impact of faithful ministry, noting that countless lives have been transformed through Rev. Colley’s service. He said families have been strengthened, churches nurtured, communities impacted, and souls led to Christ through years of devoted leadership.
“The fruits of faithful ministry often extend far beyond what human eyes can see,” he said.
The LAC-UMC Resident Bishop also reminded the congregation that the Christian journey is not about perfection but perseverance.
He praised the retired Rev.Colley for remaining steadfast through challenges, uncertainties, sacrifices, and victories while continuing to serve Christ and His Church with unwavering dedication.
Speaking on the importance of legacy, Bishop Quire said faithful servants leave behind enduring examples of faith, integrity, service, discipleship, and love for Christ. He encouraged younger generations of church leaders to emulate such commitment and remain steadfast in their own callings.
He further emphasized that retirement does not signify the end of ministry, noting that the Church continues to benefit from the wisdom, experience, and spiritual guidance of retired clergy.
“In God’s Kingdom, there is no retirement from discipleship,” Bishop Quire said. “Though active pastoral responsibilities may conclude, the ministries of prayer, encouragement, wisdom, and mentorship continue.”
Among those who paid tribute to Rev. Colley was Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Madam Leymah Gbowee, who thanked the retired clergyman for his leadership and nurturing spirit, which she said helped shape her life and career.
“Take chances with Liberians because you never know what they can become,” Gbowee remarked. “Today, I congratulate you for your service to the Lutheran Church of Liberia and to humanity.”
In his response, Rev. Colley reminded attendees of the importance of living a life that leaves a lasting impact.
“Whatever you do, remember that your legacy will live after you,” he said. “As you live, keep watching your back the Christian way. Even though I am retired, I am not leaving the Gospel.”
Rev. Colley also praised Bishop Quire for his words of encouragement and for the leadership he has demonstrated throughout his years as head of The United Methodist Church in Liberia.
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished Liberians, including Cllr. Meda A. Wesseh, Chairperson of the Interim Management Team of the United Methodist University; Fth. Company A. Wesseh, former Senator of River Gee County; former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia; Cabinet Minister Janah; and many other government officials, clergy, and members of the Christian community.
Several individuals and organizations presented gifts to the retired clergyman in appreciation of his years of dedicated service. A vehicle was also presented to him in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the Church and society.
Rev. Colley was officially retired from the Lutheran Church in Liberia during the Church’s 21st Biennial Convention and 166th Anniversary celebration. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, he was formally decommissioned from active pastoral ministry by Bishop James B. Padmore after completing 46 years of ministry, including 36 years as an ordained pastor.
Prayers of thanksgiving and blessings for Rev. Colley as he enters a new season of ministry focused on mentorship, teaching, advocacy, and continued service to God and humanity.