The Rev. Canon Dr. James T. Yarsiah traveled to Liberia

The Rev. Canon Dr. James T. Yarsiah traveled to Liberia this summer to represent the Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey at the ordination and consecration of two new Suffragan Bishops of the Episcopal Church of Liberia.
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Bishop Sally French sent Fr. James, Priest-in-Charge of the affiliated parishes of St. James, Bradley Beach, and St. Michael the Archangel, Wall Township, as her special emissary for the historic celebration. In a letter carried to the Rt. Rev. Dr. James B. Sellee, Bishop of Liberia, Bishop French offered the prayers and congratulations of the Diocese of New Jersey to the newly consecrated bishops, the Rt. Rev. Michael T. Sie and the Rt. Rev. Dr. Wilmot T. Merchant.  

​Fr. James's visit also offered an opportunity to continue building relationships between the Diocese of New Jersey and the Episcopal Church of Liberia. While the two dioceses do not currently have a formal partnership, both are exploring ways to deepen their connections. Bishop French wrote that the Diocese of New Jersey hopes to "strengthen the bonds of our Anglican Communion and explore opportunities for a deeper partnership" with the Church in Liberia.  

​The consecrations come during an important period in the life of the Episcopal Church of Liberia, which is working toward establishing two additional dioceses. The Diocese of New Jersey has offered its prayers and support as that process continues.  
Fr. James's presence in Liberia marks an encouraging step in a growing relationship, opening new opportunities for the churches in New Jersey and Liberia to learn from one another and strengthen the bonds that connect them across the Anglican Communion.

Hailey Hensley
Director of Communications and Evangelism
Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey