Marshall, Margibi County — The Resident Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, Samuel J. Quire Jr., has officially dedicated the newly constructed Ken Decker Building at the New Life Recovery Center in Marshall, Margibi County, marking a significant step in the rehabilitation of disadvantaged youth in Liberia.
The dedication ceremony brought together key stakeholders and partners, including Rev. Dr. Jim White, Rev. Dr. Jackie Chandler, Kathy Justice, Rev. and Mother Anthony G. Dioh, and Mr. Jefferson B. Knight, Director of the Center.
Speaking during the program, Mr. Knight expressed profound appreciation to Rev. Dr. White and Bishop Quire for their unwavering support to vulnerable young people across the country. He noted that their contributions continue to restore hope, stability, and purpose in the lives of many who are battling substance abuse.
He also announced a major milestone for the Center, revealing that six residents have successfully completed their recovery program and are now ready to return to their communities as transformed individuals.
“We are committed to making a positive impact in our country. Through the New Life Recovery Center, we will continue to change lives and build a better future for our young people,” Mr. Knight stated.
Delivering the keynote address, Rev. Dr. Jim White, President of Recovery Liberia, emphasized that the Center is not only restoring lives but also advancing the mission of Jesus Christ.
“The New Life Recovery Center is transforming the lives of people who are struggling and helping them rediscover themselves,” he said, while reaffirming his commitment to supporting rehabilitation efforts across Liberia. He also commended the residents for their courage, honesty, and dedication throughout their recovery journey.
In emotional testimonies, several residents shared how the program has profoundly changed their lives. Many recounted their struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, often linked to peer pressure, and expressed determination to embrace a new path.
“We are headed for recovery, and there are reasons for our existence. This family—the New Life Recovery Center—has given us a new life and a way back to society,” one resident shared.
Established in 2023, the New Life Recovery Center has become a beacon of hope, restoring broken lives and impacting hundreds of disadvantaged Liberians.
Board members, including Rev. Dr. Jackie Chandler, Kathy Justice, and Edward Brewer, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Center’s programs, which aim to restore human dignity and reintegrate individuals into society.
In his remarks, Bishop Quire urged residents to remain steadfast in their transformation.
“When you are truly changed, you do not go back to what you used to do. Go out and be disciples of change—help others leave drugs and live better lives,” he admonished.
He encouraged the residents to properly maintain the facility and commended them for their discipline and progress. The Bishop further reassured them that their struggles do not define them.
“Drugs will not stop you. With God, you will reach your destination,” he declared.
The newly dedicated facility, supported by partners including Ken Decker, features seven rooms, a health post, a mini-clinic, and office spaces. It has the capacity to host up to 50 residents and is equipped with full-time electricity.
Bishop Quire used the occasion to highlight the growing challenge of substance abuse in Liberia, describing it as a serious social issue affecting the nation, particularly among young people. He noted that schools remain among the most vulnerable environments where drug use begins and emphasized that ignorance continues to be a major contributing factor.
Despite the challenges, the Bishop expressed optimism that institutions like the New Life Recovery Center will continue to play a vital role in addressing the crisis and building a healthier, more productive society.
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