Liberia, situated on the West Coast of Africa between Sierra Leone and the Ivory Coast,  is about the same size as the State of Ohio, but with a smaller population of 3.5 million people.  The country’s historical ties with the United States began in 1822 when freed slaves from this country were repatriated to the place in Africa called Liberia ("Liberty") today.  While many of the freed slaves were Christians, the historical ties with the Episcopal Church began in 1936, when missionaries were sent to Liberia.  Liberia became an independent country in 1847.  The bond of unity between the two countries has been maintained to the present time. The Episcopal Church, individual Episcopal congregations, organizations and individuals continue to seek ways to reach out to the people of Liberia to relieve the intense suffering caused by 14 years of bitter civil war (1989 - 2003).

Partners-in-Ministry-in-Liberia (PIMIL) was established in 2005 at St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Westerville, OH.  It was established to continue the missionary efforts of parish member, The Rev. Abeoseh (Abby) Flemister who had served in Liberia from 1997-2004 until she retired from active ministry in Liberia.  PIMIL is the coming together of individuals and organizations in the United States to support Liberian children in their educational needs.  According to statistics published by UNESCO in 2004, only approximately 65% of primary school age and 24% of secondary age children were enrolled in school due to the economic conditions of the country.  PIMIL is in place to bridge that gap through individual student tuition sponsorship.  School tuition starts at US $100 per year for Primary school and increases by educational level. 

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