Tue, Apr 23
|Charlotte
General Conference Begins April 23
As we approach the General Conference for the United Methodist Church, taking place in Charlotte, NC from April 23 to May 3, it's important for us as a community to be aware of the significance of this gathering and the issues it will address. See below for more details.
Time & Location
Apr 23, 2024, 9:00 AM – May 03, 2024, 3:00 PM
Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
About The Event
This quadrennial event serves as a pivotal moment in the life of our denomination, where delegates from around the world come together to make decisions that shape the future of the United Methodist Church.
One of the key topics that will be discussed at this year's conference is regionalization. This proposal seeks to address the diverse needs and contexts of United Methodists across different regions, allowing for greater autonomy and flexibility in decision-making while maintaining our connectional identity as a global church.
Additionally, the General Conference will consider revisions to our social principles, reflecting our commitment to justice, inclusivity, and the transformation of the world. This process involves discerning how our faith translates into action in areas such as human rights, environmental stewardship, and social justice.
Another significant issue on the agenda is the discussion surrounding same-sex weddings and the inclusion of "self-avowed practicing" gay clergy. These conversations are part of ongoing efforts within our denomination to grapple with questions of human sexuality, inclusion, and theological diversity. While these discussions may be challenging, they also present opportunities for us to engage in respectful dialogue and discernment as a community of faith.
As we approach the General Conference, I invite you to join me in prayer for this important gathering and for the delegates representing the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference. Let us pray for wisdom, discernment, and unity as they engage in deliberations that will impact the future of our church.
To stay informed about the proceedings and outcomes of the General Conference, I encourage you to visit the official United Methodist Church website (https://www.umc.org) and the General Conference 2024 resource page (https://www.resourceumc.org/en/churchwide/general-conference-2020). In addition, I encourage you to view the General Conference guide (see below), which details the key legislation that will be discussed beginning on page 23. These resources provide valuable updates, resources, and insights into the discussions taking place at the conference.
Together, let us approach the General Conference with hope and a spirit of openness to God's leading as we seek to embody our Wesleyan heritage of love, grace, and transformation. Should you have any questions regarding the General Conference, please feel free to reach out to me.
Blessings,
Pastor Dave