Liberian clergyman Rev. Dr. Jerry Kulah has been elected Bishop of Episcopal Area 5 of the Global Methodist Church, covering Africa, Europe, and the United States. Episcopal Area 5 consists of Ethiopia Nazrawiyan, Great Lakes, Virginia, Southern Nigeria, Oasis, and the Grain Coast Annual Conference (Liberia).
Dr. Kulah secured 257 of 316 votes during the election by the Assembly of Bishops, emerging as one of eight bishops elected for the first time in the history of the Global Methodist Church.
The election represents a significant elevation for Liberia within the newly established global denomination. His tenure is scheduled to begin in November 2026 for a period of six years.
It places the Liberian congregation as a direct voice in the emerging leadership structure of the GMC, with responsibility extending beyond the country's borders.
The Global Methodist Church says episcopal leadership carries responsibilities beyond administrative authority, describing bishops as individuals entrusted with the sacred duty of shepherding the Church, guarding the faith, teaching, and upholding sound doctrine.
In his new role, Bishop-elect Kulah is responsible for supporting clergy and congregations across the episcopal area, equipping members for ministry and advancing the denomination's mission.
The Grain Coast Annual Conference, which includes Liberia, will form part of the episcopal area under his oversight alongside conferences and church communities in other parts of Africa and the United States.
GMC-Liberia has welcomed the election, expressing confidence that Bishop-elect Kulah will approach the responsibility with humility, faithfulness, and shepherding love. It is convinced that Rev. Kulah will uphold the denomination's commitment to spreading scriptural holiness throughout the region.
Bishop-elect Kulah and the other newly elected bishops are expected to be formally consecrated on September 5, 2026, in Johannesburg, South Africa.