⁃ Borbordee Vows Reconciliation as 5th State Grand Knight
By Vaye A. Lepolu | Monrovia
In a powerful and spirit-filled installation ceremony held at St. Joseph Parish, Worthy Brother S. Clarence Borbordee was officially installed as the 5th State Grand Knight of the Liberia State Council, Knights of Marshall.
Surrounded by religious leaders, fraternal dignitaries, family, friends, and members of the Catholic faithful, Borbordee used his first official address to outline a vision grounded in unity, healing, and service.
“We are fully aware of the responsibilities that come with these new roles,” Borbordee said. “But we look forward to your prayers and support as we carry out this noble task.”
A Platform of Reconciliation
Borbordee’s speech centered on the theme of reconciliation, drawing from the biblical story of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37. He invoked the image of scattered bones being brought to life as a metaphor for reviving fractured relationships within the Noble Order.
“We shall reach out to all corners of the State, gathering and uniting brothers and sisters… prophesying life of unity in our Noble Order,” he declared.
He called on members who may have grown disenchanted or distanced themselves from the Order to return in the spirit of peace and solidarity.
“Let us beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks. Brothers and sisters shall not rise against one another.”
Elders, Youth, and Juniors Recognized
Borbordee expressed gratitude to the elders of the Order, whom he described as the “backbone” of the institution.
“We cannot carry out this task by ourselves. Your guidance and counsel will remain a vital part of our administration.”
He also called on the younger generation to rise to the occasion, emphasizing youthful energy as a force for transformation within the Order.
“Let us use our exuberance to effect positive changes. We can make a difference.”
To the Juniors, he offered reassurance and pride: “You are our treasure. You are our precious jewels. Juniors will be Juniors again.”
Commitment to the Church and Brotherhood
Borbordee reaffirmed the Knights’ enduring commitment to the Catholic Church in Liberia and pledged to deepen collaboration with other fraternal organizations.
He praised the Ancient and Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International, the Order of the Sons and Daughters of the King, and other allied groups for their continued partnership and fraternal spirit.
“We look forward to a time when the only difference between us will be the paraphernalia we wear.”
A Grateful Reflection
The ceremony was graced by clergy including Very Rev. McDonald Nah, Vicar for Priests; Rev. Fr. Peter Savio Kpen-Ana, Parish Priest; and other celebrants. Members of the Supreme Council and Grand Court of the Knights of Marshall were also present to conduct the installation rites.
Borbordee concluded by thanking his family, parishioners of St. Joseph Parish, the combined choir, organizing committees, and all supporters.
Quoting Isaiah 60:22, he ended on a note of divine inspiration:
“Even the smallest can become great under God’s guidance.”
Long Live the Noble Order
As the ceremony closed, a renewed spirit filled the church hall—a vision of unity, action, and reconciliation was declared.
“Long live the Liberia State Council and Court, long live the Noble Order of the Knights and Ladies of Marshall, and long live our mother, the Catholic Church.”
