BREWERVILLE CITY, Liberia – The spirit of Christmas arrived early in Brewerville as Rev. Bishop Kortu K. Brown and the congregation of New Water in the Desert Assembly launched their annual Christmas celebration with powerful prayers, worship, and a public call for peace and reconciliation in Liberia. The event, held at the church’s premises few days ago, radiated joy, thanksgiving, and an urgent spiritual appeal for national unity.
Bishop Brown, a well–known Liberian clergyman, former president of the Liberia Council of Churches, humanitarian advocate, and long-time pastor of the Apostolic Pentecostal Church International, led the congregation in what he described as an opportunity for the church to “reach out” and allow the true spirit of Christmas to touch the community, the district, the country, and even beyond.”
A Call for Peace With God and Peace Among Liberians
Delivering a deeply spiritual Christmas message, Bishop Brown reminded worshippers that Christmas symbolizes the moment God “sent a redeemer to bring peace between God and man.” He emphasized that genuine peace begins with reconciliation with God and extends to reconciliation with one another — in homes, communities, and the nation at large.
“There is so much confusion in the homes, in the community, even in the churches,” he lamented. “Christmas is about making peace with one another.” He urged Liberians everywhere to forgive, reconcile, and reflect Christ-like love during the festive season.
Bishop Brown Appeals for Protest Postponement During Christmas
In one of the most striking moments of the service, Bishop Brown issued a public appeal to groups planning demonstrations during the Christmas period. While acknowledging their constitutional right to protest, he pleaded for such actions to be postponed until after the holidays, stressing the need for Liberians to experience a peaceful, safe, and joyful festive season.
“We want peace in Liberia during this Christmas,” he said. “Give us time to go to bed in peace and get up in the morning to look for our food to eat.” He also called on the government to “reach out” and create avenues for dialogue, reconciliation, and national fellowship.
Prayers for Families, the Church, and the Nation
The early Christmas celebration featured powerful intercessory prayers for families, the church, the youth, hospitals, prisons, and the nation as a whole. Worshippers prayed for God’s healing, mercy, and provision from January through December of this year, giving thanks for “the grace and faithfulness of God” that preserved their families and communities.
Another minister prayed, “Lord, thank you for your faithfulness toward our families each day… for provision from January to December.” The congregation echoed amens as worship leaders lifted up Liberia’s students, teachers, doctors, nurses, market women, and public servants.
Lighting of the Church’s Christmas Tree
The highlight of the evening was the official lighting of the New Water in the Desert Church Christmas Tree, an annual tradition symbolizing the light of Christ shining over Liberia. As the tree illuminated, the congregation sang hymns including “Glory to the Newborn King,” celebrating the birth of Jesus, “the Prince of Peace.”
Who Is Rev. Bishop Kortu K. Brown?
Rev. Bishop Kortu K. Brown is one of Liberia’s most respected religious leaders.
- Former President of the Liberia Council of Churches
- Senior pastor of New Water in the Desert Assembly
- Longstanding advocate for peace, dialogue, humanitarian relief, and community development
- Frequently called upon in national crises for mediation and counsel
His ministry has emphasized peacebuilding, charity, and strengthening Christian witness in Liberia.
A Christmas Message Anchored in Hope
As the gathering came to a close, Bishop Brown once again encouraged Liberians to embrace peace, compassion, and generosity:
“Reach out. Don’t be mean this Christmas. Share with somebody. Let this country shine.”
With singing, prayer, and the glow of the Christmas tree, New Water in the Desert Church has set the tone for a season of reflection, reconciliation, and renewal.
