The Society of African Missions/American Province has been associated, almost from the beginning of its foundation, with Liberia . In 1948, the first missionaries ordained from the province went to Liberia , a West African country begun by freed slaves from the United States . The freed men and women originally settled off the coast of nearby Sierra Leone (the country where the founder of SMA gave up his life for the glory of God). Later, they moved to Providence Island and, vigorously supported by the U.S. government, established the Republic of Liberia . Liberians never lost their identity as "children" of the USA . The capital city, Monrovia , is named for President James Monroe. Sections of towns are called West Point, Philadelphia , and Bunker Hill . Schools are named for Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter. A hospital is called JFK. And, the Liberian flag can easily be mistaken for our own...or for the insignia of Ralph Lauren!

This republic has passed through many a fire of purification since its beginnings: Corrupt leaders, exploitation of resources, political rebellions, and civil war. It is now facing another type of purification with the democratic elections slated for Oct. 11 of this year. The SMAs have endured with the Liberians through most of these trials. The last few elections were marred by violence and the suffering of the population. The 1985 election results were challenged by a number of groups (internationally and nationally), resulting in a failed coup and the arrest of many opposition leaders. The SMAs, through our justice and Peace Office, appealed and won the release of those imprisoned.

By 1997, weary Liberians desired peace and wanted to get on with their lives. In that year's elections, Charles Taylor was elected president, even amidst the cry, "He killed my pa, he killed my ma, I will still vote for him." This brought only more violence and suffering. Taylor proved to be another corrupt leader who was eventually, in 2003, forced to step down. A shaky peace, depressed economy, and devastated infrastructure describe the state of the country today.
Now Liberia is preparing for new elections. With over a million people registered to vote and more than 50 candidates running for the highest office, the hope of a future is tirring. It is our hope that October's election will move this "child" of ours onto the right path of peace and justice. We ask for prayers for our Liberian brothers and sisters and appeal to its "father country", the USA , to once again vigorously support their efforts.

We thank you for all your support over the years (through prayers and donations) and ask that you keep all Liberians in your prayers and hearts. Especially on their fateful election day.

*** Fr. Michael Moran served in Liberia for 18 years and witnessed first-hand both its pain and its potential. Now working in the United States , he is currently Vice-Provincial of SMA and Director of its Office of Justice and Peace in Tenafly , New Jersey . He is also on the board of the Africa Faith and Justice Network in Washington , D.C. , a group that works with various agencies for the good of Africa .