The United Methodist Church as we have known it is being dismantled before our eyes. Analysts are sifting through the rubble of the disastrous called session of General Conference (more info) for clues as to what went wrong and potential insights for what needs to be done.
The analysis is painful but necessary and merits thoughtful and prayerful reflection from across the denomination.
I’ve been privileged to assist in the gathering of initial reflections by a diverse group of authors. Where Do We Go from Here, (preorder here) assembled and published by Kevin Slimp of Market Square Books, represents an initial effort to advance the analysis and lay the groundwork for continuing conversation.
Here is an excerpt from my chapter in the collection:
There can be no faithful move forward without consciously and intentionally examining currently misplaced loyalties and priorities. Without such candid, ongoing, and painful self-examination, we will build new structures and practices on fatally flawed foundations where the termites continue their destruction. Without repentance, the organizational and programmatic changes made will be but improved means to unimproved ends.
Let’s continue the search for the way forward that most faithfully bears witness to God’s present and coming reign in Jesus Christ!
Shifting Margins 
Some of th e authors were part of groups creating much of the problem!!
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Ray Long. Please say more. Who/what were the problems as you see it?
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A better read!
Sent from my iPad
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I enjoyed reading the different opinions, ideas and insights. Most are in favor of moving forward to start a new branch of Methodism. It’s not like we haven’t been here before. My main concern is that it has nothing to do with “U.S.” especially since nationalism seems to have more of a foothold than ever. We can be Inclusive Methodists, Liberated Methodists, Wesleyan Methodists, Reconciling Methodists, Methodists of Grace, Open Methodists or any other apt description. Reconciling mostly means something to the churches that are already LGBT friendly, but people outside the denomination may not understand what it means. I immediately understand the words Inclusive and Liberated. Thoughts? Naming is a critical step and we must be the ones to choose it.
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I agree that naming is important! You offer some interesting possibilities. I need to give it more thought!
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