What’s Next for Methodism?
A Complicated Simplicity
by Rev. Cheryl Farr Rev. Cheryl Farr The question on the lips of many United Methodists these days is, “who will you go with after the split?” For many, the answer depends on how they interpret what the Bible says about the practice of homosexuality; for others the...
Methodism and Today’s Youth
by Brett Bucklin Brett Bucklin Church attendance is dropping. As time continues to pass, more people are not attending a church, or becoming members of one. Why is church membership declining nation-wide? Has church become a country club where we only belong if...
Racism and the Divide Between the Larger Church and the Local Church
by Rev. Jackie Gardner Rev. Jackie Gardner As guaranteed appointments decline in the connection, reflecting on African American’s history of mistreatment, wonder what will this mean if there is a schism? African Americans have been with the Methodist connection...
Reflections on the Go Global Conference by Rev. David Bush (MDiv, ’87; DMin, ’98)
Rev. David Bush My wife Joanie and I went at the end of April to Montgomery, Alabama for two reasons. First, I was invited to be interviewed for a documentary about the powerful ministry of my friend John Ed Mathison and how it has influenced my ministry. Second, we...
Deacons, Sacramental Authority, and the Role of Women in the United Methodist Church
by Sally Millsap Sally Millsap The word “deacon” comes from the Greek word Diakonos, meaning servant. In the United Methodist Church, deacons are specifically called to “word, service, compassion, and justice.” Deacons are often described as outwardly-focused and...
Where Unity is No Longer Feasible
by Josh Clayton Josh Clayton The Nature and Mission of the United Methodist Church includes this statement: “The UMC mission is inherently corporate, connectional, ecumenical, and global (as well as local).” In the Preamble to the UMC’s constitution it reads, “The...