Many of you are aware of the news splash the United Methodist Church made over the weekend. On Friday, a group of United Methodist leaders announced a proposal for the separation of the United Methodist Church. This is one of several similar proposals that will come before General Conference when it meets May 5-15 in Minneapolis. You can read our bishop’s response to this announcement, as well as the full text of the proposal and an FAQ, by clicking this link: https://www.umcsc.org/bishop-holstons-statement-on-separation-proposal/.
Keep in mind that only the General Conference can speak for the entire denomination. Legislative or structural changes can only be approved by General Conference. Some media sources are reporting as if this is a “done deal,” which is not the case. As General Conference grows closer, we will continue to see news stories such as those we have seen in recent days. The secular media rarely understand how the church operates, so please take news reports with a grain of salt. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to me or any of our ministers. We would welcome an opportunity to meet with you.
Also note that on February 9th, South Carolina’s delegation to General Conference will hold a listening session at Central. This is an opportunity to let our delegation hear your concerns and for the delegation to share their thoughts and concerns with us.
In his response, Bishop Holston offers these words:
“As we enter this new year and a new decade, I invite you to:
• Pray as your first and best response and continue to earnestly seek God’s will in your life.
• Engage in discussions, conversations, and debates in ways that honor God and allow the fruit of the Spirit to be made known. It is of vital importance to be willing to listen to others who may or may not agree with you.
• Practice the Three Simple Rules: to do all the good you can, to do no harm, and to stay in love with God.”
I echo the bishop’s sentiment and encourage us to continue the journey together in Christian love.
Yours in Christ,
Thomas W. Smith