Document
Letter to H.E. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia, 31 January,
2006
Your Excellency,
On behalf of the constituency of the World Council of Churches and in my
own name, I congratulate you on your inauguration as President of the Republic
of Liberia. Indeed, this is a task of no small measure, but I am convinced you have
the fortitude, the integrity, the love for God and your people and the ability to
perform with grace and endurance.
Liberia has played major roles in Africa's democracy and development. From
its birth, Liberia has been a beacon of hope and light for many African sisters and
brothers. Its recent past spanning over 14 years of brutal civil war, however, moves
us to offer to you our unflinching support to rebuild not only the infrastructure
of the nation, but for the total re-weaving of the fabric of the society which would
bring about improvements in the lives of each and every Liberian.
The challenges are many; yet I know that, as you have stated, Liberians are a
resilient people and able to survive and rise from the ashes of civil strife to make
a new beginning, embracing the virtues of forgiveness and reconciliation. Please
know that the World Council of Churches stands with you and avails itself to
work cooperatively with you and the Liberian people to create a culture of justice,
the rule of law where the dignity and rights of every person are respected.
Your Excellency, the World Council of Churches, as the premier ecumenical
organization in the world, is encouraged by your faith in God and your quiet
strength to persevere. We offer to you and the people and churches of Liberia our
profound prayers and support as you begin this onerous task of leading your people
at this critical juncture.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia
General Secretary
