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Dear friend,
The United Methodist Church General Conference (GC) is the top policy-making body of the United Methodist Church, typically convening every four years to consider revisions to church laws, adopt resolutions on current moral and social issues, and approve plans and budgets for our public witness. It is happening RIGHT NOW through May 3 in Charlotte, NC. This year’s General Conference is distinct due to the recent disaffiliation of 25% of conservative UMC churches, which gives us the votes to create a more equitable regional worldwide structure, revise our Social Principles, and remove all the harmful discriminatory LGBTQ language. Furthermore, this session marks the first GC since 2016 due to Covid, intensifying its significance as it addresses accumulated matters and aims for substantial reforms in church policy and structure. You can read other
For the first time since anti-LGBTQ language was first placed in our church doctrine, we have the votes to create a new church centered on inclusion and liberation! Cameron and I have been INUNDATED with 50+ people from all over the country thanking us for Allendale’s witness. There are lots of influential people here in Charlotte, but Allendale for sure has the highest rate of influence per member. We are a relatively small church with a HUGE IMPACT on the denomination.
Here are the highlights from the first four days of the General Conference in Charlotte:
April 23:
- Bishop Bickerton opened the conference with a strong message of affirmation and solidarity towards LGBTQ+ individuals and those at the margins. He emphasized the need for a season of reformation and revitalization of The United Methodist Church.
April 24:
April 25:
- Bishop Easterling delivered a powerful message against abuse, highlighting the church’s role in tackling violence and supporting survivors.
- The delegates passed a significant piece of legislation on Worldwide Regionalization, which was approved with a significant majority, emphasizing our commitment to decolonizing the church and allowing for self-determination for how the United States and international regions choose to do ministry. It amends our constitution, pending ratification of 2/3 of all annual conference delegate votes.
April 26:
- Bishop Palmer gave a prophetic prayer in solidarity with college campus protests for a free Palestine.
- Committees are passing new language for our church polity that aligns with Allendale’s values, centered in inclusion, equity, love, and justice! This legislation will likely be voted on Saturday, and this coming week beginning on Monday.
Get commentary on what is happening through our Progressive Lens WhatsApp group, and watch the livestream.
Much Love,
Pastor Andy
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