Effort Holds Thanksgiving and Intercessory Service for Deacon Amb. Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., President-Elect of the Republic of Liberia
On Sunday, 21 January 2024, the worship service at Effort Baptist Church was not only colored by prayers and thanksgiving for Liberia.
Hundreds of worshippers from all walks of life also trooped in at Effort to confirm their prayers and best wishes for our Deacon, H. E. Joseph N. Boakai, as he assumes leadership over our country (Liberia) on Monday, 22 January 2024.
It was a Thanksgiving and Intercessory Service that would remain a lasting memory in the hearts of Effort members and those that attended.
Of course His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. President-Elect of the Republic of Liberia and Vice President-Elect Jeremiah K. Koung were present, along with myriad of national and international dignitaries.
But what stand out tall about the service was the inspiringly powerful sermon delivered by our senior pastor, Rev. Trocon W. Langford, Sr.
Rev. Langford Gospel Message dwelled on the theme: “Two Nations, Two Priorities,” from text Genesis 25:29-34.
Rev. Langford, in his sermon, urged the incoming Boakai-Koung government to tackle negative cultural norms and combat corruption from all spectrums of the country.
Over the years, Liberia has shown a culture of impunity, often shielded by cultural knits, underlined by interrelationship, intermarriage, friendship, and reconciliation.
Rev. Langford also called for change in the status quo as he expressed frustration with the current state of affairs and the long-standing struggle with corruption in Liberia.
He stated that corruption has extended throughout the Liberian society, including the church. He added that it’s now time for genuine change in mind and attitude.
Rev. Langford underscored the need for a collective effort to combat corruption, stressing that when a nation sets wrong priorities, it fails to provide for essential needs and engages in detrimental practices.
The Intercessory Service was graced by the Baptist World Alliance, Africa Baptist Union, former President of Liberia, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the Liberian Legislature, led by House Speaker Fonati Koffa and Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karngar-Lawrence.
Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Youh, several other religious leaders, and foreign diplomats were also in attendance.