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This week, I'll begin meeting with 616 leaders (bishops, denominational officers, pastors and laity) in Leawood, Kansas to discuss, pray and discern God's will for the future of the UMC. 

Although a decision was made at the called session of General Conference in February to tighten the language and penalties concerning marriage, ordination and episcopal consecration of LGBTQ+ individuals, there has been considerable backlash against this decision. Conversations are taking place among some United Methodists about disaffiliation. This includes: individual lay members, individual clergy, churches, conferences, the Western Jurisdiction, our 96 colleges and universities, our health care systems and other organizations currently affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Regardless of where one stands regarding the decisions made at GC2019, the potential for significant disaffiliation is a reality that needs to be addressed. I am honored to be included in this week of conversation about what the future can realistically hold for the UMC.


As we begin this conference, I ask for prayers for clarity and a way to move forward that causes the least harm. I also strongly encourage you to take 20 minutes to watch this video  created by Rev. Tom Berlin. The video was made prior to GC2019, but is still very valuable in helping church members gain some understanding of how we hold different convictions regarding full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in our denomination.

And, if you are a member of AHUMC, I hope you will take a moment to click here to take a brief, anonymous survey. Thank you!


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