Missions in Liberia

Global Ministries: The United Methodist Church
Liberia was torn apart during the civil wars that began in the 1980s. When the wars finally ended the country was devastated. Returning Liberians (especially the youth) were poor, under-educated, and disillusioned. The Liberian United Methodist Church has taken a major role in addressing many of the postwar issues. They believe that vocational training and education is essential in providing opportunities to the “lost” generation of Liberian youth, whose childhood was destroyed by the atrocities of war. With the access to vocational training in many study areas, economic growth and development has been promoted and encourage in urban and rural communities. These newly skilled citizens have slowly begun to help Liberia’s long-term revitalization. In addition to the vocational training, the Liberian UM also operates nearly 100 elementary and secondary schools, several colleges, and the University of West Africa.[1]



Franciscan Works: A Source of Hope for People Living in Poverty
Franciscan Works is a non-profit organization in Liberia dedicated to the ministry of self-help for children living in poverty through education that is rooted in Catholic values and the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. The Liberia Mission began in 2003 (after the Civil Wars) and consists of a ten-acre campus and an adjoining 15 acre farm property that houses the St. Anthony of Padua School, St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, and separate living quarters for boys and girls. The lack of education is believed to be one of the root causes of many of Liberia’s social and economic problems. The shallow pool of human capital, knowledge, technical skills, and abilities compromises the potential for development. Franciscan Works utilizes their long-term program to help improve the life of Liberia’s children in hope for a better future.[2]

[1] “Liberia”, Global Ministries: The United Methodist Church, accessed February 19, 2015, http://www.umcmission.org/Explore-Our-Work/Africa/Liberia.


[2] “Franciscan Works”, Franciscan Works, accessed February 19, 2015, https://www.franciscanworks.org/about-us.aspx.