Pray AND Speak

The General Conference of the UMC is now just a few months off: April 23–May 3, 2024. Each of us has ways we can prepare and contribute even if we are not planning to attend.

Be aware of and in prayer for key issues before the General Conference delegates, including removal of discriminatory language, regionalization plans, and the revised Social Principles.

In another big area, you are especially qualified to speak, as well as to pray. Talk to your delegates about the petitions and resolutions pertaining to climate justice:

• Efforts to make The United Methodist Church fossil-free.

• Requirement for Annual Conferences to have coordinators of Caretakers for God’s Creation.

• Goals for Annual Conferences and local churches to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

• Development of green teams in local churches.

   

Information about these petitions and resolutions can be found in this newsletter.

Pray for your delegates and all the delegates convening from around the world. This Holy Conferencing will be a momentous time in The United Methodist Church and prayers are needed.

Karen McElfish

Delegate, Virginia Annual Conference