United Methodist delegates from Alabama will arrive in Charlotte on Tuesday to attend the United Methodist General Conference. This conference, which serves as the worldwide policy-making meeting for the denomination, will be held until May 3.
Delegates have identified three major issues that need to be addressed: the elimination of derogatory language regarding homosexuality, the need for regionalization to allow for greater self-governance in different areas of the world, and the revision of the Social Principles.
“The three major issues at hand are significant,” emphasized Rev. Kelly Clem, a retired minister for the North Alabama Conference and one of the 862 voting delegates.
Over half of the churches in Alabama and a quarter of churches nationwide within the United Methodist denomination have left due to a denominational split. It is widely believed that the General Conference will face less opposition from conservative members regarding issues such as lifting the bans on same-sex marriage and ordaining openly gay clergy.
Clem is optimistic about the upcoming denominational meeting, expecting it to be a more smooth-sailing experience compared to her previous encounters. She notes that many of those who no longer wished to be part of the denomination have already departed.
Clem expressed his optimism for the upcoming General Conference. He believed that there was a strong sense of unity and hope among the United Methodist Church and its members. According to him, the tension and conflict that once existed have subsided, leading to a more positive and productive atmosphere.
Lisa Keys-Mathews, a lay leader of the North Alabama Conference and a reserve delegate at the General Conference, expresses her belief in the presence of a sufficient number of conservative activists within the denomination. According to her, these activists possess the determination to firmly oppose any progressive proposals.
Keys-Mathews expressed her disappointment and hurt over the negative voices within the United Methodist Church. She finds it saddening and hurtful.
There is still disagreement regarding the removal of language that refers to homosexuality as “incompatible with Christian teaching,” according to her.
Keys-Mathews expressed concern about the presence of individuals who are determined to create chaos at the General Conference. She shared her sadness and unease regarding this matter.
Rev. Brian Erickson, the senior pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church of Homewood and a reserve clergy delegate, believes that there is a chance for change.
“He said that he believes the proposal to eliminate the language concerning homosexuality is the fairest, most balanced, and moderate approach moving forward. This approach allows for the greatest amount of flexibility to accommodate our differences,” he stated.
The General Conference kicks off with an opening service on Tuesday at 2 p.m. and wraps up on May 3. The initial week is packed with committee meetings, where 17 legislative committees will carefully review over 1,000 proposals.
The North Alabama Conference, sponsored by Erickson, has put forward a proposal suggesting the removal of language against homosexuality within the denomination.
Clem expressed the importance of eliminating offensive language that labels and restricts individuals. He believes in the power of removing words that create divisions and categories among people.
Clem is a member of the committee on financial administration, tasked with managing budget cuts following a significant departure from the denomination.
Clem stated that the budget for the general church will be reduced, but the percentage asked of the members at the local church will also decrease.
Clem expressed his view on the overall reduction in the church’s budget, acknowledging the sensitivity of the local church’s situation post-Covid and the loss of members. He highlighted that there would be less financial burden on individual members when it comes to contributing to the General apportionments, which he considered a positive outcome.
The upcoming General Conference is set to be a significant event, as it will be the first one since 2019. This particular meeting was specially called to address the issue of human sexuality. Unfortunately, the scheduled 2020 conference had to be postponed due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is customary for the United Methodists to convene every four years to attend to their organizational affairs.
Clem acknowledged that there has always been controversy surrounding the issue of homosexuality.
The people within the United Methodist body have intentionally chosen to stay united because they truly believe in the organization’s mission and purpose. They want to be a part of it and are dedicated to moving forward together. There is a strong sense of harmony among these individuals, as they share a common goal and a shared passion for the United Methodist community.
The North Alabama Conference consists of four clergy delegates, four lay delegates, and four reserve delegates. Similarly, the Alabama-West Florida Conference also has the same number of delegates.
Clem expressed their determination and commitment, stating, “We have chosen to be here willingly, and we have no intention of giving up the fight.”
“The individuals who strongly disagreed, particularly regarding human sexuality matters, have already departed. We are determined to progress and focus on advancing the church’s mission without getting entangled in divisive issues. We are witnessing a true unity among those who are committed to moving the church forward. Of course, there will always be differing opinions, but overall, we anticipate a more optimistic atmosphere.”
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