Congregational Meeting / Charge Conference

Congregational Meeting / Charge Conference

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Since General Conference February 2019 of the United Methodist Church, congregations and annual conferences all over the globe have taken up the charge to clarify values regarding persons of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.  Northfield UMC had 4 opportunities last spring to consider this, and an additional 3 gatherings since February of this year to prayerfully take up these questions for our own congregation.  This led to a June survey (results published in the July Herald), in which 94% of 172 respondents affirmed that their discernment had led to the conclusion God's call on this congregation is to welcome all people in the life of the church, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.  The next step for this process will be a congregational meeting and charge conference after worship on July 14, where a welcoming statement  will be considered.  Here is the statement:
 
We affirm that all people are created in the image of God and, as beloved children of God, all are worthy of God’s love and grace, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, family status, race, ethnicity, physical or mental ability, socio-economic status, or age. We unreservedly support and affirm the full inclusion of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in all facets of ministry at Northfield UMC, including ordination and marriage. Following Christ’s example, we open our hearts, minds, and doors to welcome all who come to us in God’s grace. 
 
Pastors Rachel and Jerad remain available for individual conversations before and after that gathering - rmorey@northfieldumc.org and jmorey@northfieldumc.org to set up a coffee or conversation.