How do we have difficult conversations in The United Methodist Church? That is a question Bishop David Alan Bard of Michigan raises as we share hopes, dreams and concerns about the ministry of the church with those who identify as lesbian,bisexual,gay,transgendered, or queer.
To assist with this discussion, the bishop invited two individuals that have had these conversations before to share their personal theological and Wesleyan understanding of these positions. They come together, not as representatives of caucus groups, but as two people who love Jesus and love the church and whose conversation can be a model for us. This is not a full discussion of these complex conversations, but a way to gain a more profound understanding of both shared values and differences, and a renewed commitment to compassionate and intelligent conversation, even when the topics are difficult.
Here are additional materials to use in conjunction with this video:
RESOURCES:michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Weaving-the-Future-Resources.pdf
GUIDELINES: michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Weaving-the-Future-Resources.pdf
AGENDA:michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Weaving-the-Future-agenda.pdf
This video was produced by the Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church. It may be widely shared without advanced permission, but attribution required. © 2017 Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church.
