A diverse group of representatives from United Methodist advocacy groups with contrasting views and bishops from around the world has collaborated on a proposed agreement for the separation of The United Methodist Church (UMC) that has the unanimous support of all the parties involved. The agreement, the Protocol of Reconciliation & Grace Through Separation, was achieved on December 17, 2019 and announced today. The action comes amid heightened tensions in the church over conflicting views related to human sexuality after the 2019 Special Session of the General Conference failed to resolve differences among church members. Legislation to implement the Protocol statement – an eight-page document detailing the terms of a split of the 13+ million-member denomination – is expected to come before the United Methodist General Conference for a vote at their legislative meeting in Minneapolis, Minn. in May 2020. To read the full press release go to https://www.moumethodist.org/newsdetail/united-methodist-traditionalists-centrists-progressives-bishops-sign-agreement-aimed-at-separation-13134983. A Frequently Asked Question document about the protocol is available at https://www.unitedmethodistbishops.org/newsdetail/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-united-methodist-mediation-team-13133711.
Puerto Rico Mission Trip
The offices of NextGen Ministry and Mission, Service and Justice are excited to be partnering to offer a mission trip opportunity to Puerto Rico from May 23-30, 2020. This trip will be open to high school seniors (must be 18 or older by May 22, 2020), college-age students and select adult leaders. This trip will have a focus on environmentalism, housing rights, colonial history and the relationship between the US and Puerto Rico. The application closes on March 1, 2020. https://www.moumethodist.org/eventdetail/puerto-rico-mission-trip-13127643
Clergy Benefits Academy
The Clergy Benefits Academy is from Feb. 17-19 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Clergy can earn up to 1.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by attending this event. The early-bird registration price of $149 ($279 with spouse) will last until Jan. 16. https://www.moumethodist.org/eventdetail/clergy-benefits-academy-13127648
