The Way Forward: A (Semi)Comprehensive Compendium

by Chris Ritter

NOTE: This Collection of Links will go Dormant in favor a New Compendium covering time times following GC2019. Thanks for checking in. Please bookmark the new link. This document will stay here as an archive.

Updated 2/24/2019

The following are materials generated from the United Methodist Way Forward process. I hope this will be useful for folks trying to keep up with what is happening. Check back on this post often as I will be adding resources as I become aware of them. Realizing the potential for unfortunate omissions, I invite you to make suggestions in the comment section below. Find The Commission on a Way Forward Report here. Find the Advance Daily Christian Advocate for GC2019 here.

Recent Additions

“#GC2019 Update 5” by Chris Ritter (Added 2-26-2019)

“#GC2019 Update 4” by Chris Ritter (Added 2-25-2019)

“Let’s Talk about the Future (Live GC2019 Day Two” Crackers and Grape Juice Podcast. (Added 2-24-2019)

“#GC2019 Update 3” by Chris Ritter (Added 2-24-2019)

“Effort to Delay Traditional Plan Debate Defeated” by Kathy Gilbert and Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 2-24-2019)

“General Conference 2019 – Day Two Wrap Up” by UMNS. Audio resource. (Added 2-24-2019)

“No Way Forward in Sight” by Elaine Stanovsky. (Added 2-24-2019)

“Traditional and One Church Backers Gear Up” by UMNS. (Added 2-24-2019)

“One Church Plan Draws Overflow Crowd” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 2-24-2019)

“#GC2019 Update 2” by Chris Ritter (Added 2-23-2019)

“Court Rules Two GC2019 Petitions Unconstitutional” by Linda Bloom via UMNS. (Added 2-23-2019)

“African United Methodists Won’t Trade Dollars for Bible” by Mark Tooley. (Added 2-23-2019)

“LGBTQI Delegates: ‘Shut Down’ United Methodist General Conference before Traditional Plan Considered” by Jeffrey Walton via Juicy Ecumenism. (Added 2-23-2019)

“GC2019 Update 1: Worldwide Discernment” by Andy Adams. (Added 2-23-2019(

“What Will Happen at the Special Session? Here is What United Methodists Predict” by Religion News Service. (Added 2-23-2019)

“Do Queer People Belong in the Church (Part Two)” by Maybe God Podcast. A very important and worthwhile episode. (Added 2-22-2019)

“Hopes and Fears for the United Methodist Church and Its People” via WCA. (Added 2-22-2019)

“GC2019 Update #1” by Chris Ritter. Perspectives from the Africa Initiative Retreat and One Church Plan Strategy. (Added 2-22-2019)

“Africa Initiative Gathers Delegates for GC2019” by Juju Swen via UMNS. (Added 2-22-2019(

“High Level Strategy for the One Church Plan” shared by Erik Meade via Twitter. The legislative strategy being employed by supporters of the One Church Plan. (Added 2-22-2019)

“Strong on Moral Conviction, Strong on Unity” by Teddy Ray. (Added 2-22-2019)

“United Methodist LGBTQ Vote will Reshape Denomination” by Jeremy Steele via Christianity Today. (Added 2-22-2019)

“Which Tent Do you Want to Live In?” by David Livingstone. (Added 2-22-2019)

“The Bible Says It and That Settles It” by Adam Hamilton. (Added 2-22-2019)

“Living in the Tension: A Church of the Via Media” by Adam Hamilton. (Added 2-21-2019)

“The One Church Plan: Another Step on the Wide Path Not to Be Followed” by Cliff Wall. (Added 2-21-2019)

“A Layperson’s Primer for General Conference 2019 (Part One): The Connection” by Carolyn Moore. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Sexuality and the UMC” by Dale Coulter via First Things. An insightful look at the realities we face at GC2019. (Added 2-20-2019).

“Sexuality and Christian Doctrine” by Jason Vickers via Soundcloud. (Added 2-20-2019)

“In Search of Normative Methodism” by Chad Brooks. A thoughtful read. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Try a Little Tenderness” by Ashley Crowder Stanley via Uniting Methodists. (Added 2-20-2019)

“An Open Letter to the Delegates of the 15th General Conference of The United Methodist Church” by Rebecca Miles and Kalaba Chali. (Added 2-20-2019)

“What are the Laws and Views on Homosexuality in Europe and Eurasia?” by David Scott. (Added 2-20-2019).

“The United Methodist Church will Now Confront Homosexuality” by Scott Jones via The Houston Chronicle. The Bishop of the Texas Conference offers an op-ed in the Houston Chronicle. (Added 2-20-2019)

“GC2019 Morning Video Updates from the Wesleyan Covenant Association” by WCA. The Wesleyan Covenant Association announces they will offer video updates on each morning of General Conference. This is the link to access those. (Added 2-20-2019)

“A Calm Review of What the Modified Traditional Plan Does and Does No Say” by John Lomperis. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Personal Testimonies of the PCUSA and ELCA’s ‘One Church’ Plans” by Dan Moran. See also “What Happened When Other Denominations Passed their Own ‘One Church Plan‘” (Added 2-20-2019)

“67% of U.S. Delegates Support the One Church Plan” by Mark Holland. Mainstream UMC releases their understanding of the support for the OCP among U.S. delegates. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Louisiana Clergywoman Sparks Strands of Unity Movement” by Cynthia Astle. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Comparing the 2019 General Conference Plan on Different Measures” by John Lomperis. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Lessons from Other Denominational Divides” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 2-20-2019).

“Certainty vs. Conviction” by Steve Harper. The author is certain that certainty is dangerous when it comes to the topic of human sexuality. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Former Members on Why they Left” by Mark E. Parsons-Justice via UMNS. Stories of LGBTQ persons who have left the UMC. This perspective piece is silent about the traditionalists who have left the UMC over lack of accountability. The leakage is on both sides of our current debate. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Kenyan United Methodists Oppose Allowing LGBTQ Clergy, Pray for Unity Worldwide” by Religion News Service. (Added 2-20-2019)

“General Conference is Happening: What Can I Do?” by Joe Iovino via UMNS. A brief call to prayer and calm as GC2019 happens. (Added 2-20-2019)

“The Way Forward: Humility as an Intellectual Virtue” by Caleb Speicher. (Added 2-20-2019)

“The Decision” by Jason Micheli. The story of a anonymous midwestern pastor who was ordained in spite of the fact that he rejects the discipline and doctrines of the UMC. (Added 2-20-2019)

“What a New Survey Really Tell Us” by David Livingstone via Uniting Methodists. The author counter-spins a UMNS survey that reveals Conservatives as the largest group in the United Methodist Church in the U.S. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Do What’s Hard: Pass the Connectional Conference Plan” by Ben Gosden. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Some Last Thoughts before General Conference” by Riley Case. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Is Mainstream Selling us Downstream?” by Chappel Temple. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Better Together: The Good News and the Bad News at #GC2019” by Jeremy Smith. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Tearing It Down to the Frame” by Michael Jarrell. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Only God Can Save Us Now” by Steven Long. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Honest Questions for Traditionalist United Methodists on the Eve of our Apocalypse” by Morgan Guyton. (Added 2-19-2019)

“A Response to Matt Miofsky’s Open Letter to the UMC” by Walter Fenton. (Added 2-19-2019)

“LGBTQ United Methodists are Hurting and Leaving” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Lessons from Other Denominational Divides” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 2-19-2019)

“What Are the Laws on homosexuality in the Philippines?” By David Scott. (Added 2-19-2019)

“Do Queer People Belong in the Church? Part One“via Maybe God Podcast. An hour-long podcast on the issues facing GC2019 with Karen Oliveto, Rob Renfroe, Beth Ann Cook, Adam Hamilton, and Steven Rankin. (Added 2-15-2019)

“The United Methodist Church Should Split over LGBTQ+ Inclusion” by Emily Swan. A lesbian pastor explains why justice demands a denominational split. (Added 2-14-2019)

“The One Church Plan: Impacts on Clergy” by David Livingstone. A GC2019 delegate from Kansas says the OCP will have a light impact on our system. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Which Plan Brings the Most ‘Unity in Diversity’” by John Lomperis. A multi-part series: PART ONE, PART TWO, PART THREE (Added 2-12-2019)

“What are the Differences Between the Five Exit Plans?” by David Scott. An analysis of the various exit provisions to be considered by GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Reflections on the Connectional Conference Plan” by Bob Phillips. A candid analysis of the CCP. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Our Way Forward” by Shawn Gilgore. The director of communications for the Susquehannah Conference developed this video outlining the historical context of GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Letter to United Methodists” by Bishop Ken Carter. The Council of Bishops issues a covenant for those who will be presiding over GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“The Sin of Patience at #GC2019” by Dorthee Benz. A proponent of the Simple Plan applies King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail’ to GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

2019 Alphabet Soup – UMC General Conference by Beth Ann Cook. A guide for understanding all the acronyms associated with General Conference 2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Proposed Action Items for GC2019” by Lonnie Brooks. A lay leaders from Alaska puts forth his recommendations for General Confernece 2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Commentary: Covering the Church in a Time of Change” by Tim Tanton. The chief news officer of UMNS provides his thoughts on covering this unique moment in the UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“General Conference 2019: Most Likely Outcome” by Frank Schaefer. A pastor once tried for performing same sex weddings offers his thoughts on the likihood of a UMC division. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Wespath Information on Pension Implications” by Wespath. This is the Q&A page expanded in response to fear mongering about the Way Forward plans. (Added 2-12-2019)

“The One Church Plan: Calm and Rational?” by Walter Fenton. The VP of the Wesleyan Covenant Association responds to Mainstream UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Impact on Future Conflicts” by John Lomperis. The MTP creates the most unified future for the UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Which Plan is Best for Church Growth?” by John Lomperis. The OCP will lead to division and decline and the MTP creates the best environment for growth. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Why ‘Exit Only’ is the Plan Most Likely to Pass GC2019” by David Scott. An argument that all General Conference will pass is an exit provision. (Added 2-9-2019)

“Modified OCP Legislation” by Uniting Methodists. A list of corrections to the One Church Plan being recommended by the Uniting Methodists in light of Judicial Council Decision 1366. (Added 2-9-2019)

“United Methodism 2.0” by Chris Ritter. It is OK for delegates to support the CCP along with their favorite other plan at GC2019. (Added 2-8-2019)

“G roup Urges GC2019 to Defer Exit Plans” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. OCP supporters try to make the rush for the door their plan will cause to be more difficult. (Added 2-8-2019)

“Perspectives on a Way Forward” by UMNS. A video production features four supporters of four different plans: Mark Holland (OCP), Rob Renfroe (MTP), Althea Spencer-Miller (TSP), and Chris Ritter (CCP). (Added 2-8-2019)

“Process Developed to Prioritize Legislative Committee Work at GC 2019” by the Commission on General Conference. On Sunday, February 24 delegates will be ranking legislation as high or low priority. (Added 2-6-2019)

“The Plans’ Impact on Clergy” by Tom Lambrecht. What clergy might experience under the different Way Forward plans. (Added 2-6-2019)

“Narrow is the Way” by Justus Hunter. A response to Bishop Kenneth Carter’s “Embracing the Wideness.” (Added 2-6-2019)

“The Betrayal of Good News: How a 2004 Blueprint Created the #GC2019 Endgame” by Jeremy Smith. A progressive blogger makes the case that the mess we find ourselves in was engineered by entities other than those currently defying the BOD. (Added 2-6-2019)

“Revisions to the Modified Traditional Plan” by Tom Lambrecht. Important: These are the official updates to the Modified Traditional Plan following Judicial Council Decision 1366. (Added 2-5-2019)

“United Methodist Trust Clause: Critical Amidst Struggle?” by Kathy Gilbert via UMNS. The implications of the trust clause in the UMC’s struggle over human sexuality. (Added 2-5-2019)

“Traditional Plan Boosts Penalties” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. A summary of the Traditional and Modified Traditional Plan coming to GC2019. (Added 2-5-2019)

“C ommentary: Why I Stay” by Kim Nelson via UMNS. A gay candidate for ministry in the Alabama-West Florida conference offers his thoughts on why he stays in the UMC. (Added 2-5-2019)

Explanatory Resources on the Plans Coming to GC2019″A Layperson’s Primer for General Conference 2019 (Part One): The Connection” by Carolyn Moore. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Try a Little Tenderness” by Ashley Crowder Stanley via Uniting Methodists. (Added 2-20-2019)

“An Open Letter to the Delegates of the 15th General Conference of The United Methodist Church” by Rebecca Miles and Kalaba Chali. (Added 2-20-2019)

2019 Alphabet Soup – UMC General Conference by Beth Ann Cook. A guide for understanding all the acronyms associated with General Conference 2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Our Way Forward” by Shawn Gilgore. The director of communications for the Susquehannah Conference developed this video outlining the historical context of GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Finding a Way Forward with Tom Lambrecht” a Good News Magazine Podcast. Bob Kaylor interviews Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht. (Added 1-23-2019)

“Why is an Exit Path Necessary?” by Tom Lambrecht. The issues at stake in the question of exit provisions proposed to GC2019. (Added 1-23-2019)

Handy reference chart comparing Way Forward Plans: plans-comparison-english (Here is one that presents the plans from the perspective of the Central Conferences: plans-comparison-central-conferences-english (Added 1-5-2019)

Seeing a Way Forward Videos offered by UMNS. Dozens of short video clips from people of various perspectives about the Way Forward. (Added 1-10-2019)

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

“FAQ’s about General Conference 2019” by the Council of Bishops’ Learning Group. Answers to questions bishops are commonly asked about General Conference 2019. (Added 11-20-2018)

“Laity and the One Church Plan” by Thomas Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner discusses how the One Church Plan disenfranchises the laity. (Added 11-10-2018)

“Way Forward Presentations sponsored by the Mission Council of the South Central Jurisdiction” shared at Extreme Center. Bishop Scott Jones presents the best case for the Traditional Plan, Bishop Gary Mueller presents the Connectional Conference Plan, and Bishop Robert Schaase presents the One Church Plan. (October 12, 2018)

“Important Questions Concerning the Way Forward and the Special Session of General Conference” by Bishop Gary Mueller and the AR Conference. A 13-page Q&A PDF about the Way Forward prepared for the Arkansas Conference. (Added 10-12-2018)

“Critical Meetings and Events Precede Pivotal General Conference” by Walter Fenton via the Wesleyan Covenant Association. A run-down of important things to watch between now and General Conference 2019. (Added 10-12-2018)

“The Way Forward: Five Videos” by Bishop Scott Jones via Extreme Center. The bishop of the Texas Conference offers five brief videos on the Way Forward. One for each of the three primary plans, one on the Catholic Spirit, and one on the Decisive Turn that the One Church Plan represents. (Added 10-1-2018)

“A Chart Comparing the Three Way Forward Plans” prepared in the Great Plains Annual Conference. (Added 10-2-2018)

“Analyses of the Way Forward Report and Plans” by Bishop Scott Jones. The resident bishop of the Texas Annual Conference offers separate analyses of the Way Forward Report, The One Church Plan, The Connectional Conference Plan, and the Traditional Plan. (Added 8-2-2018)

“Commission on a Way Forward: A Live Q&A Event” via the Virginia Conference. This link will take you to a recording of a live 90-minute Q&A featuring Bishop Sharma Lewis, Tom Berlin, Madeline Pillow, and Martha Stokes. (Added 9-27-2018)

Tom Berlin’s Way Forward Presentation to the Virginia Annual Conference (video filmed around June 16) A member of the Commission on a Way Forward and supporter of the One Church Plan presents to his home conference. (added 7-04-2018)

Abingdon Press is in the process of releasing a suite of ten resources under the heading Faultlines: Holy Conversations about Human Sexuality. The link here takes you to a PDF summary of the books which are written from various perspectives. These resources can be ordered here.

Holy Contradictions: What’s Next for the People Called United Methodists? (February 2018) Essayists include Scott Kisker, Jim and Jennifer Cowart, Rob Fuquay, Jay Williams, Kim Reisman, Bryan Collier, Audrey Warren, Phil Wogaman, Eduard Khegay, Magrey deVega, Tom Lambrecht, Laceye Warner, Donna Pritchard, David Field, and Diane Kenaston. Edited by Brian Milford.

The Marks of Hope: Where the Spirit is Moving in a Wounded Church (March 2018) by Matt Rawle;

Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and the United Methodist Church, a Four-Week Study (August 2017) by David L. Barnhart, Jr., Rebekah Jordan, Alex Joyner, and Jill M. Johnson.

Is It Time? Helping Laity and Clergy Discuss Homosexuality One Question at a Time (November 2017) by Adolph Hansen.

Are We Really Better Together? An Evangelical Perspective on the Division in the UMC (April 2018) by Rob Renfroe and Walter Fenton.

The Fight for Marriage: Church Conflicts and Courtroom Contests (April 2018) by Phillip F. Cramer and Willam L. Harbison.

Our Strangely Warmed Hearts: Coming Out into God’s Call (April 2018) by Karen P. Oliveto.

The 19: Questions to Kindle a Wesleyan Spirit (May 2018) by Carolyn Moore.

Our Purpose is Love: The Wesleyan Way to Be the Church (May 2018) by David N. Field.

A New Church and a New Seminary: Theological Education is the Solution (May 2018) by David McAllister-Wilson.

Critique and Analysis of Way Forward Plans

“Louisiana Clergywoman Sparks Strands of Unity Movement” by Cynthia Astle. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Comparing the 2019 General Conference Plan on Different Measures” by John Lomperis. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Lessons from Other Denominational Divides” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 2-20-2019).

“Certainty vs. Conviction” by Steve Harper. The author is certain that certainty is dangerous when it comes to the topic of human sexuality. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Kenyan United Methodists Oppose Allowing LGBTQ Clergy, Pray for Unity Worldwide” by Religion News Service. (Added 2-20-2019)

“A Calm Review of What the Modified Traditional Plan Does and Does No Say” by John Lomperis. (Added 2-20-2019)

“67% of U.S. Delegates Support the One Church Plan” by Mark Holland. Mainstream UMC releases their understanding of the support for the OCP among U.S. delegates. (Added 2-20-2019)

“The One Church Plan: Calm and Rational?” by Walter Fenton. The VP of the Wesleyan Covenant Association responds to Mainstream UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“The One Church Plan: Impacts on Clergy” by David Livingstone. A GC2019 delegate from Kansas says the OCP will have a light impact on our system. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Proposed Action Items for GC2019” by Lonnie Brooks. A lay leaders from Alaska puts forth his recommendations for General Confernece 2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Which Plan Brings the Most ‘Unity in Diversity’” by John Lomperis. A multi-part series: PART ONE, PART TWO, PART THREE (Added 2-12-2019)

“Reflections on the Connectional Conference Plan” by Bob Phillips. A candid analysis of the CCP. (Added 2-12-2019)

“The Sin of Patience at #GC2019” by Dorthee Benz. A proponent of the Simple Plan applies King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail’ to GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“The Plans’ Impact on Clergy” by Tom Lambrecht. What clergy might experience under the different Way Forward plans. (Added 2-6-2019)

“Impact on Future Conflicts” by John Lomperis. The MTP creates the most unified future for the UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Which Plan is Best for Church Growth?” by John Lomperis. The OCP will lead to division and decline and the MTP creates the best environment for growth. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Traditional Plan Boosts Penalties” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. A summary of the Traditional and Modified Traditional Plan coming to GC2019. (Added 2-5-2019)

“Survey Results Reveal Strong Support for Exit Provision” by the Wesleyan Covenant Association. WCA releases internal polling data from its constituency about possible Way Forward scenarios. (Added 1-30-2019)

“United Methodist Church: Care for the Children! #GC2019” by Gregory D. Gross via Hacking Christianity. A gay UM deacon argues that the Traditional view of human sexuality is harming children. (Added 1-30-2019)

“Open Letter to the Bishops of the South Central Jurisdiction” An illustration of why the One Church Plan cannot create a stable peace. (Added 1-30-2019)

“Why Unity Will not be Achieved through Compromise” by Shane Bishop. The pastor of one of the fastest growing churches in America shares why compromise cannot lead to unity. (Added 1-30-2019)

“Calm Amidst Chaos and Crisis” by Mark Holland. Supporters of the One Church Plan cannot admit that their plan will not lead to unity no matter how large the evidence to the contrary grows. (Added 1-30-2019)

“WCA Details Post-General Conference Plans” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 1-30-2019)

“Backers say the One Church Plan preserves unity” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. (Added 1-30-2019)

“New Conferences Proposed in Way Forward plan” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. A feature on the Connectional Conference Plan. (Added 1-26-2019)

“Finding a Way Forward: Cara Nicklas” A video featuring Oklahoma lay delegate to GC2019, an attorney supporting the Modified Traditional Plan. (Added 1-23-2018)

“Why is an Exit Path Necessary?” by Tom Lambrecht. The issues at stake in the question of exit provisions proposed to GC2019. (Added 1-23-2019)

“The One Church Plan: What Are We Voting On?” by Teddy Ray. Will GC2019 be asked to adopt the theological material associated with the OCP? If so, it says that being denied ordination is a source of suffering… and we are committed to ending suffering. (Added 1-22-2019)

“A Home for Everyone? (#OneChurchPlanMyths #umc)” by Matt O’Reilly. Trying to move forward in a church with different visions of human sexuality is not working for us, so why do supporters of the OCP want to perpetuate this? (Added 1-21-2019)

“Are Progressives Punished Under the Traditional Plan?” by Chris Ritter. A summary of what happens to progressives if the Modified Traditional Plan is approved at General Conference 2019. (Added 1-18-2019)

“A Modest Way Forward” by Walter Fenton. How exit provisions will help United Methodists care for one another. (Added 1-18-2019)

“The CCP is (and should be) DOA” by David Livingstone. Conspiracy theories keep progressives from entertaining the Connectional Conference Plan, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. (Added 1-17-2019)

“The Myth of Neutrality (#onechurchplanmyths #umc)” by Matt O’Reilly. The One Church Plan can never be neutral toward same-sex marriage. (Added 1-16-2019)

“Wespath Study Reveals Traditionalist Plan Cruelly Targets Clergy Pensions” by Jeremy Smith. Scurrilous misinformation intended to stoke fear in the hearts of clergy. It is included here as an example of desperation and manipulation we will need to look out for between now and GC2019. Wespath wrote the pension section of all the Way Forward Plans to be fair and equitable to all. (Added 1-16-2019)

“How to Pass the Connectional Conference Plan” by Chris Ritter. The author proposes an addition to the CCP that might aid its passage. (Added 1-15-2019)

“A Calm Critique of the One Church Plan” by Joe DiPaolo via WCA. A summary of problems with the One Church Plan. (Added 1-15-2019)

“Panel Clarifies Options for General Conference 2019” by Sam Hodges via UMNS. The Committee on Reference has approved 78 petitions as in keeping with the call of General Conference 2019. (Added 1-14-2019)

“Commentary: The Best Scenario for the Korean Church” by Sungho See via UMNS. A Korean pastor shares his hope for the Way Forward. (Added 1-11-2019)

“The Modified Traditional Plan: Faithful, Fair, and Gracious” by Walter Fenton. The VP of WCA highlights the merits of the Modified Traditional Plan. (Added 1-11-2019)

“What of the Majority Faction of Bishops Supporting the One Church Plan?” by Robert Sparkman via Juicy Ecumenism. Statistically, the bishops supporting the OCP do not represent a majority of United Methodists. (Added 1-10-2019)

“The One Church Plan and the Rise of the Global South” by Luther Oconer via Good News. The Associate Professor of United Methodist Studies at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio discusses the impact on the One Church Plan upon the Central Conferences. (Added 1-10-2019)

“The One Church Plan Receives Additional Support” via UM Insight. A group of John Wesley Scholars that support the OCP release a statement. (Added 1-10-2018)

“Through a Glass Darkly” by Rob Renfroe via Good News. The President of Good News gives his take on General Conference 2019. (Added 1-10-2019)

“Liberal UMC Clergy Rally Around Oliveto, The One Church Plan” by Dan Moran via Juicy Ecumenism.

“Take a Fresh Look at the Connectional Conference Plan” by Bishop Gary Mueller. The bishop of the Arkansas Annual Conference believes the Connectional Conference Plan is worthy of much more attention than it has received. (Added 1-10-2019)

“Methodist University Leaders Call for Broad Ecclesiastical Support for the LGBTQ Community” by GBHEM. The leaders of church-related institutions call for inclusion beyond any of the three primary Way Forward plans. (Added 1-10-2019)

“Rounding Up the Usual Suspects: Evaluating Talking Points and Battle Lines Preceding GC2019” by Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate surveys the landscape just prior to General Conference 2019. (Added 1-4-2019)

“A New Year’s Message from the Moderators of the Commission on a Way Forward” by Bishops David Yemba and Sandra Steiner Ball. Amidst a debate that have focused on OCP vs. TP, we have this reminder to not forget about the Connectional Conference Plan. (Added 1-3-2019)

“Seven Ways the Liberal Bishops’ Plan WOULD Impact Non-American United Methodists” by John Lomperis. Indiana GC delegate of head of UMAction describes the impact of the One Church Plan upon UM’s in our global Central Conferences. (Added 12-20-2018)

“Congo Central Conference Votes to Elect Bishops for Life” by Pierre Omadjela via UMNS. This article repeats the African Bishops’ assurance that they will form a “UMCA” if the UMC splits over human sexuality. (Added 12-19-2018)

“Simple Plan vs. the One Church Plan: Are Progressives Splitting the Vote?” by Jeremy Smith. A United Methodist clergy analyses whether support for the Simple Plan will help defeat passage of the OCP. (Added 12-19-2018)

“Seeing a Way Forward: The Rev. Alex da Silva Souto and Karen Prudente” via UMNS. This installment of a Way Forward video series highlights the Simple Plan. (Added 12-19-2018)

“Korean United Methodists and Bishops Struggle to Find a Way Forward” by Thomas Kim via UMNS. The One Church Plan would be a hard pill to swallow for Korean United Methodists. (Added 12-18-2018)

“Methodism’s Neutron Bomb” by Mark Tooley. The president of the Institute on Religion and Democracy likens the One Church Plan to a neutron bomb that eliminates the people but preserves the property. (Added 12-18-2018)

“What’s It Going to Take to Fix and Free the UMC?” by Alex Joyner. A reserve delegate to the UMC General Conference reflects on the hope he sees in the One Church Plan. (Added 12-16-2018)

“Opinions Still Vary on the Way Forward” by Jim Patterson via UMNS. A round-up of opinions on the Way Forward process. (Added 12-14-2018)

“The Plans’ Impact on Mission” by Tom Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner analyzes the impact that the three Way Forward plans would have upon mission. (Added 12-8-2018)

OneChurchPlan.org A group of United Methodist bishops supporting the One Church Plan have launched website. Some bishops move away from their “trust the delegates” message and pivot to full advocacy for one plan. (Added 12-7-2018)

“Seeing a Way Forward: The Rev. Tom Lambrecht” via UMNS. Way Forward Commissioner and VP of Good News offers his insights in this UMNS video series. (Added 12-1-2018)

“Decision 1366: Drafting a Duplex Denomination” by Chris Ritter. The author comes out of retirement as a UMC solution-writer to consider a new option created by the recent Judicial Council decision. (Added 11-29-2018)

“Why Centrist and Progressive Leaders Need to Have ‘The Talk’ with their Lay Leaders” by Bryan Bucher. Progressives need to be ready for a Traditionalist win at General Conference 2019. (Added 11-29-2018)

“Why Scripture Compels Me to Favor the One Church Plan” by James Howell. A North Carolina pastor explains the scriptural basis for his support of the One Church Plan. (Added 11-29-2019)

“Telling the Truth to the Church” by Rob Renfroe. The president of Good News speaks to UMC leaders who seem deaf to those who say they cannot live in the church created by the One Church Plan. (Added 11-28-2018)

“Lines in the Sand” by Wes Magruder. Traditionalists have drawn a line in the sand and it is time for Progressives to get together and do the same. (Added 11-28-2018)

“The One Church Plan: Problems of Governance and Theology” by David Watson. The Dean of United Theological Seminary critiques weaknesses in the One Church Plan. (Added 11-21-2018)

“The ‘Done’ Church Plan” by Tim McClendon. A United Methodist clergy critiques the One Church Plan. (Added 11-20-2018)

“Let’s Make a Deal: Projection for GC2019 in Light of Wicked Problem Wisdom” by Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate discusses the options before GC2019. (Added 11-20-2018)

“The OCP: Delusions of Adequacy” by Chris Ritter. The One Church Plan is inadequate to keep the church together and is only adequate at reversing our positions on marriage. (Added 11-15-2018)

“The Mean Girl Manifesto: The Traditionalist Plan” by Christy Thomas. A retired UMC pastor accuses the Traditional Plan of being mean-spirited. (Added 11-15-2018)

“Laity and the One Church Plan” by Thomas Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner discusses how the One Church Plan disenfranchises the laity. (Added 11-10-2018)

“The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” by Randy Burbank. A United Methodist pastor discusses the implications of GC2019. (Added 11-09-2018)

“Augustine and Wesley on the ‘One Church’ Plan” by Cliff Wall. A United Methodist clergy argues that the One Church Plan separates us from our roots. (Added 11-09-2018)

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

“A Statement by the WCA Council” shared by Jeff Greenway. The 26-member Global Council of the Wesleyan Covenant Association makes a statement on the future of the UMC and the WCA Movement. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Nothing New” by Beth Ann Cook. An Indiana General Conference clergy delegate and member of the Commission on the General Conference restates that changing the definition of marriage in the UMC will result in a situation where millions of United Methodists cannot stay in the church. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Is the Traditional Plan Constitutional?” by Tom Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner and petitioner to Judicial Council reflects on the meaning of the October 2018 rulings. (Added 10-30-2018)

“Even Unconstitutional, the Traditional Plan Threatens the #umc” by Jeremy Smith. A progressive bloggers take on the October 26 Judicial Council rulings as related to the Traditional Plan. (Added 10-27-2018)

“Did the Traditional Plan Survive?” by Chris Ritter. An initial analysis of the October 2018 Judicial Council rulings on the Way Forward Plans (Added 10-26-2018)

“Embracing Same-Sex Marriage” by Paul Butler via World Radio. “The World and Everything in It” Podcast features the same-sex marriage debate in the UMC with interviews by Chris Ritter, Mark Holland, and Rob Renfroe. (Added 10-23-2018)

“Decisions Won’t Stop with General Conference” by Sam Hodges via UMNS. A report on the voting at the annual conference and local church levels that would be triggered by the One Church Plan. (Added 10-22-2018)

“Is the Traditional Plan Punitive?” by Thomas Lambrecht. A Way Forward commissioner describes how the Traditional Plan will restore unity to the church. (Added 10-20-2018)

“Let Me Un-Confound You” by Robert Hunt. A response to a blog by Rob Renfroe. Hunt argues the New Testament has no clear teaching on human sexuality. (Added October 19, 2018)

“ELCA: Foreshadowing a UMC Future?” by Carolyn Moore. The author describes what happened in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America when they passed something similar to the One Church Plan. (Added 10-6-2018)

“Upgrading the Traditional Plan” by Tom Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner writes about suggested updates to the Traditional Plan coming to General Conference 2019. (Added 10-6-2018)

“Not of One Mind” by Stephen Rankin. The University Chaplain at Southern Methodist University remarks about a feature of the One Church Plan. (Added 10-6-2018)

“Commentary: Officially or Unofficially, Church Will Separate” by Thomas Bowsher via UMNS. A clergy from South Dakota shares his conviction that none of the three Way Forward Plans can hold the church together. (Added 10-6-2018)

“Traditionalist Plan: More of the Same from the #UMC” by Jeremy Smith. A theory that a conspiracy has been afoot to change the name from “Traditionalist” to “Traditional” on one of the Way Forward plans. (Added 10-6-2018)

“Latino/Hispanic Caucus in NCJ Endorses the Traditional Plan” via Wisconsin Conference News. Report from the September 2018 gathering of the Latino/Hispanic Caucus of the North Central Jurisdiction that met in Madison, WI. (Added 10-4-2018)

“Pension Staff Plans for Possible Ways Forward” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A summary of the ways Wespath has been working to prepare for the various contingencies associated with the Way Forward. (Added 10-3-2018)

“Adam Hamilton and Bishop Robert Schnase on The Way Forward for the UMC” a presentation at Church of the Resurrection’s Leadership Institute. Video from a 1 hour 45 event promoting the One Church Plan. (Added 10-2-2018)

“A Chart Comparing the Three Way Forward Plans” prepared in the Great Plains Annual Conference. (Added 10-2-2018)

“Responding to Talking Points” by Tom Lambrecht via Good News. The Way Forward Commissioner responds to talking points about the One Church Plan from Mainstream UMC. (Added 9-27-2018)

“An Alternative Voice from the Texas Conference” by Diane McGehee et al. A minority statement in support of the One Church Plan, written by the pastor of the only Reconciling Church in the Texas Conference. (Added 9-20-2018)

“Do United Methodists Believe in Truth?” by Riley Case. A voices in The Confessing Movement explores what the One Church Plan says about our understanding of Truth. (Added 9-18-2018)

United Methodists for a Gracious Exit. A theologically diverse group of West Ohio clergy, including Reconciling UM’s, Uniting Methodists, and members of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, start a movement to support passage of a Gracious Exit at GC2019 as a first order of business. (Added 9-19-2018)

“I Confess: I Don’t Understand” by Rob Renfroe. The President of Good News writes about his continued disbelief in the efficacies of the One Church Plan. (Added 9-18-2018)

“Groups Push for Modified Traditional Plan” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A summary article of renewal group support for a modified Traditional Plan. (Added 9-15-2018)

“WJ Mission Cabinet Endorses the One Church Plan” via DSC Communications. The Mission Cabinet of the Western Jurisdiction unsurprisingly endorses the One Church Plan. (9-11-2018)

“What Is a ‘Good’ Witness?” by Tom Lambrecht via Good News. A Way Forward Commissioner explores the witness the UMC will make through our Way Forward decision. (Added 9-8-2018)

“The Traditional Plan: Lighting a New Flame” by Chris Ritter. A summary of the Traditional Plan that focuses on freedom and contextualization. (Added 9-06-2018)

“Seven Reasons Why the ‘One Church’ Plan Should be Rejected” by Timothy Tennent. From May 2018: The President of Asbury Theological Seminary critiques the One Church Plan. (Added 9-05-2018)

“The Not So Simple Plan” by Randy Burbank. The pastor of First UMC in Sheffield, Alabama critiques the “Simple Plan” developed by the Queer Clergy Caucus. (Added 9-05-2018)

“Annual Conference Sessions Weigh In on Possibilities for ‘A Way Forward’” by Dan Moran via Juicy Ecumenism. A Round-up of recent annual conference actions related to the Way Forward process. (Added 9-01-2018)

“New Group Pushes Simple Plan” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. This is the first in a series of articles about alternative plans being presented to General Conference. (Added 8-28-2018)

“The One Church Model, Presbyterian Church (USA) Style” by Brett Webb-Mitchell. The LGBTQ+ Advocate for the Pacific Northwest Conference Compares the One Church Plan to what happened in his home denomination, the PC(USA). (Added 8-26-2018)

“The One Church Plan Converts, Other Plans Compliance” by Jason Valendy. The author supports the OCP by saying it converts rather than forces compliance. (Added 8-26-2018)

“The One Church Plan & Doctrine” by Chris Ritter. Some of the arguments before the Judicial Council state that the One Church Plan conflicts with United Methodist doctrine. (Added 8-25-2018)

“How Did We Get Here? Where Do We Go from Here?” by Dorothee Benz via Reconciling Ministries. One of the founders of Methodists In a New Direction (MIND) addresses her take of the situation before the UMC and strategies for GC 2019. (Added 8-25-2018)

“Is the One Church Plan Constitutional?” by Thomas Lambrecht. Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht describes the constitutional issues with the One Church Plan. (Added 8-24-2018)

“GC2019: That They May Be One as We are One” by Albert Otshudi Longe via UM Insight. Former United Methodist missionary and intern at the General Board of Church and Society writes as an African in favor of the One Church Plan. (Added 8-24-2018)

“Room for All” by Uniting Methodists. Charts aimed to show how the One Church Plan creates room for everyone in the United Methodist Church. (Added 8-22-2018)

“African Leaders Support Traditional Plan” by E. Julu Swen via UMNS. News from the recent gathering of the Africa Initiative from which African bishops and leaders report strong support for the Traditional Plan. (Added 8-22-2018)

“Hispanic/Latino Caucus Support One Church Plan” by Gustavo Vasquez via UMNS. Report of MARCHA’s 42-16 vote to support the One Church Plan. (Added 8-22-2018)

“Moderate United Methodists Should Support Traditional Plan” by Mark Tooley. The President of the Institute on Religion and Democracy makes the case for moderates supporting the Traditional Plan. (Added 8-22-2018)

“The One Church Plan – A Denominational Disconnect” by Riley Case. The Confessing Movement within the United Methodist Church offers this critique of the One Church Plan. (Added 8-21-2018)

“The Connectional Conference Plan” by Walter Fenton. The VP of the Wesleyan Covenant Association describes the details of the Connectional Conference Plan developed by the Commission on a Way Forward. (Added 8-21-2018)

“The Best Reasons to Oppose the One Church Plan are Not Good Enough” by David Livingstone. A General Conference delegate as self-described unequivocal supporter of the One Church Plan discusses his view on the main objections to the plan. (Added 8-21-2018)

“A Way Forward into Cultural Diversity” by Thomas Bandy. A non-United Methodist familiar with the UMC offers insights from his recent book in support of the One Church Plan. (Added 8-19-2018)

“Marriage and the One Church Plan” by Tom Lambrecht. Member of the Way Forward Commission and VP of Good News analyzes the definition of marriage created by the One Church Plan. (Added 8-17-2018)

“UM Voices: Do No Harm?” by Sara Anderson via UMAction. A response to Bishop Carder’s post about splitting the UMC over human sexuality issues being “tacky.” Anderson outlines harm that would come through the One Church Plan. (Added 8-16-2018)

“The One Church Plan: Unlikely Opponents” by Chris Ritter. In addition to unanimous rejection by traditionalist groups, the One Church Plan is drawing criticism from those who affirm same-sex marriage. (Added 7-15-2018)

“The Traditional Plan” by Walter Fenton. The Vice President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association describes the Traditional Plan that is included in the Commission on a Way Forward report. (Added 7-15-2018)

“Problems with the One Church Plan” by Ted Campbell. Professor of Church History at Perkins School of Theology talks about how the One Church Plan excludes laity to the harm of the church, and potentially to the harm of gay or lesbian candidates for ministry. (Added 8-13-2018)

“What’s Wrong with the Traditional Plan – Part Three” by David Livingstone. A GC delegate offers the final part of his critique of the Traditional Plan. (Added 8-11-2018)

“Episcopalians and the One Church Plan” by Thomas Lambrecht. Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht discusses the effects of the One Church Plan upon the Episcopal Church. Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. (Added 8-11-2018)

“The One Church Plan” by Walter Fenton. The Vice President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association analyzes the One Church Plan. (Added 8-10-2018)

“Traditionalism: Hard Hearts and Dull Ears” by Bill Trench. A supporter of Uniting Methodists and One Church Plan attempts to walk back some radical comments made by a group of young adults about Scripture at the recent Uniting Methodist Conference. (Added 8-10-2018)

“Who Will Have Power of Attorney to Care for the Ailing #UMC?” by Jeremy Smith. The author describes the Way Forward plans as siblings vying for legal control of a parent in Hospice, the UMC. (Added 8-10-2018)

“Meet Us in St. Louis” by Austin L. Adkinson. The Love Your Neighbor Coalition (LYNC) is not of one mind whether to support the One Church Plan or the “Simple Plan.” (Added 8-9-2018)

“Conferences Unite on Welcoming Immigrants” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. This roundup of annual conference actions from 2018 includes responses to the Way Forward proposals. (Added 8-9-2018)

“A Second Question for My Traditionalist Friends” by Jack Harnish. A supporter of the One Church Plan wonders why the Traditionalist Plan doesn’t say more about polygamy. Posted August 5, 2018 (Added 8-8-2018)

“A Question for My Traditionalist Friends” by Jack Harnish. A supporter of the One Church Plan wonders about the future of theological education in the Traditional Plan passes. Posted 7-29-2018 (Added 8-8-2018)

“E Unam Pluribus” by Chappell Temple. The pastor of Christ UMC in Sugarland, Texas reflects on the Way Forward options, referencing this post by Bob Phillips. (Added 8-3-2018)

“When Unity at All Costs is Too Costly” by Paul Lawler. This article by the pastor of Christ Church in Birmingham was shared by the Wesleyan Covenant Association. (Added 8-3-2018)

“St. Louis Approaches” an update by Good News. Articles on Rob Renfroe and James Howell’s back and forth, along with news about work being done to promote the “One Church Plan.” (Added 8-2-2018)

“Grocery Store Marketing Explains the WCA’s Plan of Dissolution for the UMC” by Jeremy Smith. Smith believes that WCA has included a plan of Dissolution to make the Traditional Plan seek more moderate. (Added 8-2-2018)

Circuit Rider’s August/September/October Issue is called “Decision 2019” and features a “Foreword” by Bishop Ken Carter, “One Church, Many Contexts” by Bishop Carter, “A Heart at Peace” by Bishop Grant Hagiya, “The Playing Field: Scripture and the Traditional Faith of the Church” by Jessica LaGrone, “How to Love Through Resistance” by Ginger Gaines-Cirelli, “How Does our Decision Affect the Local Church?” by Tom Berlin, “Agreement ‘to’ Rather than Agreement ‘with‘” by Bishop John Schol, “Church Dividing Issues” by Bishop Gregory Palmer, “Economic and Pension Consequences of GC2019 Actions” by Barbara Boigegrain, and “Unity for the Sake of Mission” by Mande Muyombo.

“Just say No to the Local Option, Part Two” by Ben Witherington. An Asbury Seminary Professor Critiques the One Church Plan in Patheos, July 9. See the first post in this series here. (Added 7-31-2018) See also: “Does the UMC Have a Way Forward? The Problem with Outdated Arguments” by Karen Keen via Ministry Matters. A critique of Ben Witherington’s post against the One Church Plan. (Added 7-31-2018)

“The Way Forward” by Steve Wood. The pastor of Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, a very large North Georgia Congregation, reflects on the options before the UMC. (Added 7-31-2018)

“LGBTQ Advocates Conflicted on Way Forward” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. Report from the recent ‘Love Your Neighbor’ Coalition gatherings in St. Louis. (Added 7-31-2018)

“What’s Wrong with the Traditionalist Plan – A Partial List” by David Livingstone. A Kansas clergy and General Conference delegate critiques the Traditionalist Plan. (Added 7-30-2018) (See also Part Two, added 8-3-2018)

“The Connectional Conference Plan and the Scope of the Commission on a Way Forward” by David Scott. The Director of Mission Theology for the GBGM analyzes the Connectional Conference Plan. (Added 7-28-2018)

“Four Reasons for Truly Traditional Annual Conferences” by Chris Ritter. (Added 7-27-2018)

“The Liberal UMC Bishops’ Plan, Part Five: Bringing Peace and Unity, or Something Else?” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action continued his series on the One Church Plan, arguing that it would not bring peace but turmoil. (Added 7-27-2018)

“The Theology of the One Church Plan” by Teddy Ray. The Lead Pastor of Offerings United Methodist Church in Lexington critiques the theology behind the One Church Plan. (Added 7-26-2018)

“The Final Nail in the Mainline Coffin?” by Rev. Lynn Malone. The pastor of First UMC in Monroe, Louisiana (and a former district superintendent) summarized the Way Forward proposals and shares his opposition to the One Church Plan. (Added 7-26-2018)

“Glide Church and the Way Forward” by Riley Case. This analysis of the situation with Glide Memorial and the UMC was offered on The Confessing Movement Facebook page on July 9, 2018. (Added 7-27-2018)

“What’s In the Connectional Conference Plan?” by Tom Lambrecht. Way Forward Commissioner summarizes the Connectional Conference Plan. (Added 7-26-2018)

“The Liberal UMC Bishops’ Plan, Part Four: How It Tramples on Traditionalists’ Consiences, Despite Assurances to the Contrary” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action continues his critique of the One Church Plan. (Added 7-26-2018)

“The Liberal UMC Bishops’ Plan, Part Three: How It Would Harm United Methodists Outside the USA” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action argues that the One Church Plan is harmful to UM’s in the Central Conferences. (Added 7-25-2018)

“The Liberal UMC Bishops’ Plan, Part Two: Going Much Further than a ‘Local Option‘” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action argues that the One Church Plan changes the marriage standards for the entire UMC and gives laity no voice at the annual conference level. (Added 7-25-2018)

“The Liberal UMC Bishops’ Plan, Part 1: Summary” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action summarizes the One Church Plan. (Added 7-25-2018)

“A Response to James C. Howell” by Rob Renfroe. The President of Good News responds to a blog critical of him. In this is an impassioned warning against the effects of the One Church Plan. (Added 7-25-2018)

“Resurrecting the UMC: The Simple Plan” by Jeremy Smith. A Progressive clergy advocates for the plan submitted by the Queer Clergy Caucus. (Added 7-21-2018)

“Rage Against the UMC: The Traditionalist Plan” by Jeremy Smith via UM Insight. (Added 7-21-2018)

“Reversing the UMC: The Connectional Conference Plan” by Jeremy Smith via UM Insight. (Added 7-21-2018)

Wespath FAQs: Commission on a Way Forward. Wespath, formerly the General Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, offers this Q&A about their review of the Way Forward options. (Added 7-20-2018)

“Realigning the UMC: The One Church Plan” by Jeremy Smith. A Progressive blogger argues for the One Church Plan as not Progressive. (Added 7-19-2018).

“What is in the Traditional Plan?” by Tom Lambrecht. Way Forward Commissioner and VP of Good News summarizes the Traditional Way Forward Plan. (Added 7-19-2018)

“The ‘None Church’ Plan of the UMC” by Tim McClendon. The Pastor of St. John’s UMC in Aiken, South Carolina critiques the One Church Plan. (Added 7-18-2018)

Response to the Way Forward Report by Lonnie Brooks. Brooks names the errors of commission and omission in the One Church Plan. (Added 7-18-2018)

“First Read: The Way Forward Report” by Chris Ritter. An analysis of the report offered by The Commission on a Way Forward. (Added 7-17-2018)

“The One Church Plan & The Big Red Button” by Chris Ritter. A General Conference delegate analyzes the potential for harm in the One Church Plan. (06-27-2018)

“Why the 2019 General Conference WILL Fail and CAN Succeed” by Dr. Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate analyzes the hopes and risks for GC2019. (6-24-2018)

“Finding a Faithful Future“, a speech by Tom Lambrecht to the Iowa Chapter of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. A Way Forward Commissioner (and VP of Good News) gives his perspective on the decisions facing the United Methodist Church. He supports the Traditionalist Plan and argues against the One Church Plan. (6-23-2018)

“Branded” by Chuck Griffin. The blog of the Holston Conference WCA argues that the One Church Plan would create even more confusion in the United Methodist brand. (6-22-2018)

“Two Cheers for the Connectional Conference Plan” by Ted Campbell. An endorsement of the Connection Conference Plan developed by the Commission on a Way Forward. (6-21-2018)

“The Fate of the Report of the Commission on a Way Forward” by Lonnie D. Brooks. The Lay Leader of the Alaska Annual Conference argues that the One Church Plan will run afoul of the UMC’s Constitution due to Judicial Council Ruling 1208. This was copied from his Facebook post. (6-14-2018)

One Church Plan Summary by Way Forward Commissioner Rev. Donna Pritchard. These images were tweeted by Rev. Jeremy Smith from a presentation to the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference. (6-13-2018)

“Two Cheers for the Connectional Conference Plan” by Ted Campbell. An endorsement of the Connection Conference Plan developed by the Commission on a Way Forward. (6-21-2018)

“3,000 Words on the Way Forward” by “untiedmethodists.org.” A picture is worth a thousand words. Option One represents the Traditionalist Plan, Option #2 the Connectional Conference Plan, and Option #3 the One Church Plan. (6-10-2018)

“Six Questions for the One Church/Local Option Plan” and “Six Questions for the Enforcement/Traditional Model” by Bob Phillips (6-7-2018)

“Commission on a Way Forward Report Not Released” by Wesleyan Covenant Association. This update cites a Council of Bishops memo from July 6 stating that the translation process HAS NOT BEGUN. (Added 7-9-2018)

“The Past and Future of the United Methodist Church, with Professor Ted Campbell” in The Plain Truth: A Holy Spirited Podcast. “Methonerd Heaven” is reached as academics discuss what went wrong in the development of The United Methodist Church. The Connectional Conference Way Forward Plan is also discussed. (added 7-16-2018)

“N.T. Wright on Authentic Church Unity #UMC” by Matt O’Reilly. “It should be clear that authentic Christian unity is never unity in name only. Authentic Christian unity can only be had when it is gospel-oriented unity.” (Added 9-18-2018)

October 2018 Judicial Council Rulings

“Judicial Council Sets February Docket” by Linda Bloom via UMNS. Tom Lambrecht’s request for reconsideration of Decision 1366 related to exits was denied. (Added 12-12-2018)

“Why I Appealed the Judicial Council Decision on an Exit” by Tom Lambrecht. One of the petitioners before Judicial Council in Decision 1366 shares why he asked the court to reconsider part of their rulings. (Added 12-1-2018)

“W hat the Judicial Review Process Has Revealed about the ‘One Church’ Plan” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action reviews what the Judicial Council’s ruling means for the plan favored by a majority of our bishops. (Added 11-09-2018)

“Back to the Future, UMC Style (or, More Fun Times with the Judicial Council” by David Watson. The Dean of United Theological Seminary argues that Judicial Council decision 1366 took us back to the days of theological pluralism experienced before 1988. (Added 11-07-2018)

“UMC Judicial Review of Traditional Plan: What’s Upheld, What’s Not, What’s Next” by John Lomperis. The Director of UM Action summarizes Judicial Council Decision 1366 with respect to the Traditional Plan. (Added 11-07-2018)

“Judicial Council Sets Special Session” by Linda Bloom via UMNS. The Docket for the Judicial Council meeting set to coincide with the specially-called General Conference in St. Louis. (Added 11-06-2018)

“Is the Traditional Plan Constitutional?” by Tom Lambrecht. A Way Forward Commissioner and petitioner to Judicial Council reflects on the meaning of the October 2018 rulings. (Added 10-30-2018)

“Judicial Council Decision 1366 Reflections” by Tim McClendon. Some thoughts on the significance of the October 2018 Judicial Council rulings by a United Methodist clergy. (Added 10-30-2018)

“Judicial Council Provides Direction for the Special General Conference” by Keith Boyette. The President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association and former Judicial Council member reflects on the far-reaching implications of the October 2018 rulings on the Way Forward plans. (Added 10-29-2018)

“Annual Conference Separation” by Lonnie Brooks. A petitioner to the Judicial Council shares his thoughts on the ruling that annual conferences can leave the UMC under the present constitution if General Conference provides such a mechanism. (Added 10-29-2018)

“Reflections on Judicial Council Decision 1366” by Lonnie Brooks. A petitioner to the Judicial Council summarizes his thoughts on the October 2018 Decision. (Added 10-29-2018)

“Court Ruling Propels GC2019 Strategizing” by Heather Hahn, E Julu Swen and Sam Hodges via UMNS. A round-up of reactions to the October 2018 Judicial Council rulings on the Way Forward Proposals. (Added 10-29-2018)

“Judicial Council Proves We’re Already in Schism” by Steven Rankin. The chaplain of Southern Methodist University reflects on the recent rulings by the Judicial Council on the Way Forward plans. (Added 10-27-2018)

“Did the Traditional Plan Survive?” by Chris Ritter. An initial analysis of the October 2018 Judicial Council rulings on the Way Forward Plans (Added 10-26-2018)

Judicial Council releases decision on Way Forward Plans (Added 10-26-2018)

“Top Court Releases October Decisions” by Linda Bloom and Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 10-26-2018)

“Court: One Church Plan Largely Constitutional” by Linda Bloom via UMNS. (Added 10-26-2018)

“Court Asked to Rule on Validity of Plans” by Linda Bloom, Kathy L. Gilbert and Sam Hodges via UMNS. An article documenting the oral hearings before the Judicial Council on the Way Forward Plans. (Added 10-24-2018)

“What the #UMC Judicial Council will Actually Do this Week” by Jeremy Smith. Blog post about the possible Judicial Council rulings that are coming from the hearings now underway. Check the comment section for some helpful fact checks to information in the post. (Added 10-24-2018)

“Top Court Plays Decision-Making Role” by Linda Bloom via UMNS. I background story on the Judicial Council in preparation for their October 2018 rulings on the Way Forward plans. (Added 10-12-2018)

“Judicial Council Hearings to be Accessible via Livestream” shared via UMNS. A press release from the Judicial Council with information about how to access their hearings on the Way Forward Plans during their October 23-26 session in Zurich, Switzerland. (Added 10-4-2018)

“Arguments Mount on Way Forward Plans” by Sam Hodges via UMNS. A roundup of the briefs being filed in preparation for the October Judicial Council hearings on the Way Forward Plans. (Added 9-06-2018)

“The One Church Plan & Doctrine” by Chris Ritter. Some of the arguments before the Judicial Council state that the One Church Plan conflicts with United Methodist doctrine. (Added 8-25-2018)

“Opening Judicial Council Briefs on the Way Forward Report” shared by Lonnie Brooks. A collection of opening briefs before the Judicial Council in preparation for their deliberation on the Way Forward Plans in Zurich in October 2018. Briefs are filed by Bill Lawrence, Lonnie Brooks, John Lomperis, Tom Berlin, Tom Lambrecht, Keith Boyette, Keith McIlwain, Lonnie Chafin, Nathanael Fugate, Paul Fleck, and Robert Zilhaver. (Added 8-15-2018)

“Top Court Sets October Oral Hearings: Updated” by Linda Bloom @ UMNS. Additional details are added about the October 23-26 oral hearings in Zurich about the Way Forward proposals, including who will participate in oral arguments. (Added 8-14-2018)

“Top Court Sets October Oral Hearings” by Linda Bloom of UMNS. Information about the October 2018 Judicial Council proceedings where a declaratory decision related to the constitutionality of the three Way Forward Plans may be decided. (Added 8-11-2018)

“Brooks Opening Brief on the Constitutionality of the Traditional Plan” by Lonnie Brooks. This brief is submitted for the October 2018 Docket of the UMC Judicial Council on a requested declaratory decision about the constitutionality of the Way Forward Plans. (Added 7-30-2018)

“Brooks Opening Brief on the Constitutionality of the One Church Plan” by Lonnie Brooks. This brief is submitted for the October 2018 Docket of the UMC Judicial Council on a requested declaratory decision about the constitutionality of the Way Forward Plans. (Added 7-30-2018)

“Can the One Church Plan Save the UMC from Schism?” by Megan Briggs via ChurchLeaders.com. This is an outside article from May, 2018 that I missed when it came out. (Added 9-1-2018)

About General Conference 2019″A Layperson’s Primer for General Conference 2019 (Part One): The Connection” by Carolyn Moore. (Added 2-20-2019)

“Commentary: Covering the Church in a Time of Change” by Tim Tanton. The chief news officer of UMNS provides his thoughts on covering this unique moment in the UMC. (Added 2-12-2019)

“General Conference 2019: Most Likely Outcome” by Frank Schaefer. A pastor once tried for performing same sex weddings offers his thoughts on the likihood of a UMC division. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Wespath Information on Pension Implications” by Wespath. This is the Q&A page expanded in response to fear mongering about the Way Forward plans. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Letter to United Methodists” by Bishop Ken Carter. The Council of Bishops issues a covenant for those who will be presiding over GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Our Way Forward” by Shawn Gilgore. The director of communications for the Susquehannah Conference developed this video outlining the historical context of GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Why ‘Exit Only’ is the Plan Most Likely to Pass GC2019” by David Scott. An argument that all General Conference will pass is an exit provision. (Added 2-9-2019)

“What are the Possible Outcomes of GC2019?” by David Scott. A round-up of possible scenarios for the upcoming General Conference, coming from a rare objective source. (Added 1-26-2019)

“Africa Initiative Calls for Global Prayer, Fasting” by E. Juju Swen via UMNS. Leaders from the church in Africa call the global UMC to prayer as GC2019 approaches. (Added 1-26-2019)

“Why is an Exit Path Necessary?” by Tom Lambrecht. The issues at stake in the question of exit provisions proposed to GC2019. (Added 1-23-2019)

“Now that the Committee on Reference has Met, What Plans will be Before GC2019?” by Dr. David Scott. A summary of what legislation is properly before GC2019. (Added 1-17-2019)

“Rural advocates open letter” United Methodist Rural Advocates submit an open letter to General Conference 2019 delegates. (Added 1-16-2019)

“How to Pass the Connectional Conference Plan” by Chris Ritter. The author proposes an addition to the CCP that might aid its passage. (Added 1-15-2019)

“A Year for the UMC” by Carolyn Moore. The Vice President of WCA’s Global Council offers context as we approach General Conference 2019. (Added 1-15-2019)

“Commentary: The Best Scenario for the Korean Church” by Sungho See via UMNS. A Korean pastor shares his hope for the Way Forward. (Added 1-11-2019)

“Remembering Our Ordination Vows” by Timothy Tennent. The President of Asbury Theological Seminary discusses biblical authority and faithfulness to vows as the UMC approaches GC2019. (Added 1-5-2019)

“LGBTQ Churchgoers Wary of Bishops’ Letter” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A roundup of reactions to the UM Bishops letter to the LGBTQ Community. (Added 1-4-2019)

“Fifty Days and Counting” by Beth Ann Cook. A member of the Commission on the General Conference offers a prayer focus during the 50 days leading up to General Conference 2019. (Added 1-3-2019)

“Against Heterosexuality” by Michael W. Hannon via First Things. How the basic framing of the human sexuality debate assures that the wrong conclusion will be reached. From 2014, but highly relevant to 2019. (Added 1-2-2019)

“Council of Bishops’ Letter to the Global LGBTQ Community” issued 12/28/2018. (Added 1-2-2019)

“What’s at Stake?” by Tom Lambrecht. A member of the COWF employs the Christmas season to discuss what is at stake at General Conference 2019. (Added 12-14-2018)

“A Simple Majority is a Foundation of Sand” by Daryl Stephens. A solution to the human sexuality debate that one garners 50.01% of the vote at General Conference will not be sufficient to unify the church. (Added 12-14-2018)

“Committee on Reference to Meet in January” by Commission on the General Conference via UMNS. A press release about the January 11 meeting of the committee that will decide which petitions are properly before General Conference 2019. (Added 12-14-2018)

“Gracious Exit: Understanding the Stakes” by Chris Ritter. A discussion of the issues surrounding the topic of whether GC2019 should approve a gracious exit provision. (Added 12-6-2018)

“Lines in the Sand” by Wes Magruder. Traditionalists have drawn a line in the sand and it is time for Progressives to get together and do the same. (Added 11-28-2018)

“FAQ’s about General Conference 2019” by the Council of Bishops’ Learning Group. Answers to questions bishops are commonly asked about General Conference 2019. (Added 11-20-2018)

“Let’s Make a Deal: Projection for GC2019 in Light of Wicked Problem Wisdom” by Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate discusses the options before GC2019. (Added 11-20-2018)

“Commentary: Thoughts on GC2019 via United Methodist History” by Elaine Robinson. A professor at St. Paul’s school of theology offers historical context for GC2019. (Added 11-20-2019)

“General Conference 2019 and the Null Hypothesis” by David Scott. The Director of Mission Theology at GBGM explores the possibility that GC2019 will adopt no plan. (Added 11-16-2018)

“Bishops Urge Trust in GC2019 Delegates” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A report from the fall Council of Bishops meeting. (Added 11-14-2018)

“A Fight Between Good and Tame: The Coming United Methodist Schism” by Christy Thomas. A retired UM clergy and columnist argues that a UMC schism will tame the fight in the denomination but will not put the UMC in a better position for the future. She calls out the bishops who attended the recent Global Gathering of the WCA. (Added 11-10-2018)

“Seven Major Benefits of the Mitosis of the UMC” by Bob Phillips. An argument that the Way Forward presents Methodism with an opportunity for the reboot it desperately needs if it is to regain vitality. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Definition of a Dysfunctional Organization: The United Methodist Church” by Christy Thomas. A retired United Methodist Clergy and columnist writes about the inability of the UMC to make common-sense decisions. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Wesleyan Covenant Association Moves Forward” by Walter Fenton. A wrap up of the meetings held by the Wesleyan Covenant Association November 1-3 in Marietta, Georgia. (Added 11-5-2018)

“What a Successful Conference Looks Like” by Elizabeth Glass Turner. Some guiding words relevant to General Conference 2019. (Added 10-27-2018)

“Seeing a Way Forward: The Rev. Gary Graves” via UMNS. A collection of videos providing information from the secretary of the General Conference. (Added 10-25-2018)

“Commentary: Evaluating the GC019 Organizational Plan” by Lonnie Brooks via UMNS. The Lay Leaders of the Alaska Missionary Conference critiques that plan for organization proposed by the Commission on a Way Forward.” (Added 10-12-2018)

“2019 General Conference Process Set” by Thomas Lambrecht via Good News. A report on the format of General Conference 2019. (Added 10-12-2019)

“Game Theory and General Conference 2019” by David Scott via UM & Global. Interesting article on the gamesmanship that is possible at GC2019 with regards to the order of the voting. (Added 10-12-2018)

“Big Crowds for Meetings on Denomination’s Future” by Kathy Gilbert and Sam Hodges via UMNS. A report of meetings held around the Connection concerning the Way Forward. (Added 10-12-2018)

“Plan Approved for GC2019 Decision Making” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A plan for the shape of General Conference 2019 is approved by the General Commission on General Conference. (Added 10-9-2018)

“Ask the UMC: How Often has There Been a Special General Conference?” by UMNS. There has only been one other special General Conference in United Methodism (1970 in St. Louis to complete the merger). (Added 10-6-2018)

“Divide and Conquer: Two Visions for the Future of the UMC” by Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate shares why he believes and mitosis is the only Way Forward that has the potential to address our systemic issues of decline. (Added 9-28-2018)

“Commentary: African Delegates Informed, Ready for GC 2019” by Simon Mafunda via UMNS. The Lay Leaders of the Zimbabwe East Conference responds to a previous commentary stating the African delegates are uninformed. (Added 9-27-2018)

“Two Separate But Overlapping Issues for our UMC” by Bishop Mike Coyner. The Way Forward Plans are not only about homosexuality, but also about how much we insist upon obedience to our covenant. (Added 9-18-2018)

“Commentary: GC Delegate Says Church Should be Considering Hunger, Healthcare” by Martha E. Banks via UMNS. An East Ohio delegate shares her thoughts on GC2019 from her perspective as an African-American woman concerned about the mission focus of the UMC. (Added 9-12-2018)

“Preparing for Nothing (or Anything) from General Conference” by Bishop Mike Coyner via UMNS. A retired bishop lowers the expectations that GC 2019 will mean something definitive for the UMC. (Added 9-11-2018)

“Devotion Series Focuses on Spiritual Preparation for GC2019” by Meagan Ewton. A devotion series offered in the Oklahoma Conference from the Book of Acts: 28 Chapters for the 28 weeks leading up to General Conference. (Added 9-09-2018)

“What Is a ‘Good’ Witness?” by Tom Lambrecht via Good News. A Way Forward Commissioner explores the witness the UMC will make through our Way Forward decision. (Added 9-8-2018)

“Understanding the Present UMC Crisis” by Ted Campbell. Professor of Church History at Perkins School of Theology writes a summary of the present UMC crisis. This includes some possible scenarios for GC2019. (Added 9-07-2018)

“Letter Calls for Hope, Kindness, and Unity” by Kara Witherow. Reports on a letter written by 250 clergy in the South Georgia Conference. (Added 9-06-2019)

UMCPrays.org – The official prayer site of the Way Forward and General Conference 2019 (Added 0-5-2019)

“Commission on the General Conference Determines Petition Process” via UMNS. Press release on how the petitions to General Conference will be sorted. Forty-eight petitions are submitted to enact the three Way Forward Plans. Eighteen were rejected due to improper formatting. The remaining sixty-one petitions will be printed in the ADCA and a the process here outlined will determine if they are properly before the body. (Added 8-27-2018)

“General Conference Statement” by the Extended Cabinet of the Kentucky Annual Conference. “General Conference may prescribe a process for disaffiliation for both congregations and pastors, but if they do not, the Kentucky Annual Conference will have a process.” (Added 8-24-2018)

“February 2019 and the Illusion of Uncertainty” by Chrisie Reeves-Pendergrass. The institution may fail, but the Kingdom will endure. (Added 8-17-2018)

“Preparing for Nothing (or for Anything) from General Conference” by Michael Coyner. A retired bishop argues that the mission will go on no matter what GC2019 does. (Added 8-15-2018)

“LGBTQ United Methodist Clergy: Expect More Protests and Defiance Surrounding General Conference 2019” by Dan Moran. IRD reports from the recent “For Everyone Born” Gathering of LYNC. (Added 8-13-2019)

“Uniting Methodists Panelists: ‘The Bible is Wrong’” by Dan Moran. The IRD reports on comments by Millennial Generation panelists at the Uniting Methodist gathering in Dallas. (Added 8-10-2018)

“Why Are ‘Traditionalist Compatiblists’ So Hard to Find?” by Chris Ritter. A re-post by WCA of an article analyzing the various categories in the UMC relative to the matters facing us at GC2019. (Added 8-10-2018)

“THE Issue Facing American United Methodism” by Bob Phillips. A General Conference delegate discussed the single issue that General Conference 2019 must address and it is not human sexuality. (Added 8-4-2018)

“Executive Summary of the Way Forward Report” from The Texas Annual Conference Website. (Added 8-2-2018)

“For Everyone Born” video links of the St. Louis Gathering of the Love Your Neighbor Coalition, July 26-29. (Added 7-31-2018)

“Landmark Decisions for UMC Predicted at Conference” by Bill Bumpas of One News Now. A news outlet reports on John Lomperis’ thoughts about the upcoming General Conference 2019. (Added 7-31-2018)

“Taking the Ugly Out of General Conference 2019” by Chris Ritter. Strategies for treating each other like brothers and sisters in Christ at General Conference 2019: Use the Golden Rule, Retain Connection, and Think about the Mission. (Added 7-30-2018)

“FAQ’s, Number 2: The State of the United Methodist Church” by The Wesleyan Covenant Association. Questions about the upcoming General Conference are answered. (Added 7-27-2018)

“Seeking Higher Ground: Conversations in the UMC” by Carolyn Moore. The pastor of Mosaic Church in Augusta, Georgia suggests some essential categories when United Methodists conference together. Written June 10, 2018 (Added 7-23-2018)

“Commission Reverses Special Session Registration Fees” by UMNS. Other funds were found to cover the $3.7 million price tag of GC2019. (Added 7-13-2018)

“UMC Bishops Amend Call for 2019 Special Session of General Conference” UMNS. (Added 7-9-2018)

“UMC Bishops Amend Call for 2019 Special Session of General Conference” UMNS. See actual call text here. (Added 7-9-2018)

“Bishops Change Call for General Conference” by Tom Lambrecht via Good News. A traditionalist Way Forward Commissioner shares why he thinks that the change of call is good news. (Added 7-9-2018)

Petitions Submitted to General Conference 2019

“Understanding Pension/Economic Impact of Commission on a Way Forward Plans” by Wespath. Our board of pensions offers this info piece to assure the church they are neutral on the Way Forward plans are assets are secure no matter which plan is enacted. (Added 12-10-2018)

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

“Way Forward Report Released in All Four Official Languages of General Conference” by UMC Council of Bishops. In this long-anticipated “official” release of the final Way Forward Report, versions are offered in English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili. (Added 7-31-2018)

The Commission on a Way Forward Report released as docket-10-2018-12 by the Judicial Council from the Council of Bishops. (Added 7-17-2018)

Petitions available on the Wesleyan Covenant Association site:

Modified-Traditional-Plan-Dunnam-512 Filed by Maxie Dunnam, these modifications to the Traditional Plan are reported as supported by the Wesleyan Covenant Association. This one focuses on episcopal accountability through a modified global structure. See also theModified-Traditional-Plan-Dunnam-2801-rationale (Added 7-20-2018)

Modified-Traditional-Plan-Dunnam-2801 Filed by Maxie Dunnam, these modifications to the Traditional Plan are reported as supported by the Wesleyan Covenant Association. This one focuses on changes to Par. 2801 allowing affiliated autonomous conferences. See also the Modified-Traditional-Plan-Dunnam-2801-rationale (Added 7-20-2018)

Plan of Dissolution submitted by Keith Boyette. This plan of last resort dissolves the United Methodist Church so that new connections can spring up. (Added 7-30-2018)

Rationale-Plan-of-Dissolution-as-Way-Forward (1) submitted by Keith Boyette. Not endorsed by the Wesleyan Covenant Association, this petition was individually submitted by Keith Boyette “just in case all else fails.” It provides for the dissolution of The United Methodist Church so that its component parts can reorganize into different forms. See also Rationale-Plan-of-Dissolution-as-Way-Forward (Added 7-20-2018)

Surrender-of-Charter-and-Disaffiliation submitted by Keith Boyette. Not endorsed by WCA, “a petition has been filed to provide such an exit path. It would allow local churches to leave the denomination with all their property and assets, and their liabilities. And of course, such churches would agree to satisfy their proportionate share of the UM Church’s unfunded liabilities (largely related to pre-1982 pension benefits). All churches and the denomination will benefit from the provision of a generous exit path. Such a provision enables us to do unto others as we would have done to us. Additionally, providing such an exit ramp will permit the UM Church to move forward focused on its mission without the crippling distraction of further conflict over the church’s sexual ethics, teachings on marriage, and its ordination standards. It would be far better off moving ahead with the willing, not the constrained.” See also Rationale-Surrender-of-Charter-and-Disaffiliation. (Added 7-20-2018)

“A Simple Plan” General Conference petitions submitted by the Queer Clergy Caucus. Amendments to the Book of Discipline to remove all prohibitions around homosexual practice. (Added 7-18-2018)

“A Traditional Way Forward with Enhanced Enforcement” by Lonnie Brooks. Legislation proposed by a long-time lay leader of the Alaska Conference. (added 7-18-2018)

“Petition v7(a) JoeK discontinue Karen Oliveto July 2018” by Joe Kilpatrick. This General Conference petition provides for the removal of Rev. Karen Oliveto from the general superintendency of the UMC. The action returns her as a clergy member to her annual conference. Salary and benefits would continue for a time to ease her transition. A delay in action is granted if General Conference passes a mechanism to allow Bishop Oliveto to transfer into a new Progressive Methodist connection. (Added 7-12-2018)

“Lifewatch Proposal to Replace Paragraph 161.G at GC2019” submitted by Paul Stallsworth. (Added 7-12-2018)

Petitions Submitted by Lonnie Brooks, lay member from the Alaska Annual Conference. Brooks explains his multiple proposals here. (6-6-2018)

One Church Plan Summary by Way Forward Commissioner Rev. Donna Pritchard. These images were tweeted by Rev. Jeremy Smith from a presentation to the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference. (6-13-2018)

“What is in the One Church Plan?” by Tom Lambrecht. Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht offers details of the One Church Plan. (Added 7-12-2018)

“The Long and Winding Road to St. Louis” by Keith Boyette. The President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association summarizes legislation being submitted by the Renewal and Reform Coalition. (6-22-2018)

Key Issue: Should a Gracious Exit be Approved as part of the Way Forward?

“What are the Differences Between the Five Exit Plans?” by David Scott. An analysis of the various exit provisions to be considered by GC2019. (Added 2-12-2019)

“Why ‘Exit Only’ is the Plan Most Likely to Pass GC2019” by David Scott. An argument that all General Conference will pass is an exit provision. (Added 2-9-2019)

“G roup Urges GC2019 to Defer Exit Plans” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. OCP supporters try to make the rush for the door their plan will cause to be more difficult. (Added 2-8-2019)

“United Methodist Trust Clause: Critical Amidst Struggle?” by Kathy Gilbert via UMNS. The implications of the trust clause in the UMC’s struggle over human sexuality. (Added 2-5-2019)

“Why is an Exit Path Necessary?” by Tom Lambrecht. The issues at stake in the question of exit provisions proposed to GC2019. (Added 1-23-2019)

“Gracious Exit: Understanding the Stakes” by Chris Ritter. A discussion of the issues surrounding the topic of whether GC2019 should approve a gracious exit provision. (Added 12-6-2018)

“Amicable Separation or Political Leverage?” by Morgan Guyton. A progressive UMC campus minister argues against amicable separation. (Added 11-14-2018)

“What a Real ‘Gracious Exit’ Might Look Like” by David Livingstone. A General Conference delegate shares his thoughts on the issue of gracious exit. (Added 11-9-2018)

“Commentary: Should Be Hard to Leave Denomination” by Lovett Weems, Jr. via UMNS. Church Leadership professor argues against an easy exit from the UMC. (Added 10-9-2018)

“Diverse UMC Clergy Group Wants ‘Gracious’ Way for Churches to Leave Over LGBT Issues” by Michael Gryboski via Christian Post. A news report from outside the UMC about the call for a Gracious Exit. (Added 9-25-2018)

“Whither the Gracious Exit? Committed or Constrained?” by Keith Boyette. The President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association advocates for a path of gracious exit as part of the Way Forward process. (Added 9-13-2018)

“Exit Ramps & the Way Forward” by Chris Ritter (2-13-2018) What form would a denominational exit ramp take? Congregational or connectional?

“W hy I am Not Afraid of the ‘Gracious Exit’” by Bryan Bucher (5-30-2018). This voice from the “Uniting Methodists” offers his analysis on the upcoming votes at General Conference 2019 and why a gracious exit may be warranted.

Gracious Accommodation Resolution. This resolution will be offered in several annual conferences in 2018. This non-binding resolution calls for allowing a gracious exit to those who cannot agree with the decision make at GC2019. This version was offered in the Texas Conference and was defeated by a narrow margin.

“No ‘Gracious Exit’ for Oakland – Or Anyone?” by Joshua Alexander (5-21-2018) The author writes about how the Baltimore-Washington Conference is handling a congregation seeking to leave the denomination and how that relates to the Way Forward.

UMNS: “Church Leaders Hear Way Forward Update” (2-12-2018) The Commission on a Way Forward Promised an Exit Provision with Each Way Forward Model.

“What the Bishops Really Did” by Tom Lambrecht (May 2018) A Way Forward Commissioner interprets the Council of Bishops action, including removing exit provisions from their main proposal: “The bishops decided that their mandate was to provide for the unity of the church, not to encourage the departure of congregations and clergy. Therefore, an exit path will not be part of their One Church proposal. However, at least one form of exit path legislation will be included in the supplemental material, and it could be added by the General Conference delegates to any of the plans. Other exit path proposals could be submitted as part of the regular petition process, if permitted by the Judicial Council, or else submitted independently. The delegates could add any of these exit path proposals to any of the plans.”

“Conference Claims Property of Exiting Church” (UMNS) by Heather Hahn. (5-31-2018)

“Conferences Play Hardball with Exiting Churches” (Good News Magazine) by Tom Lambrecht. (6-15-2018)

A Statement Against Rescinding the Trust Clause by Morgan Guyton on Patheos. The head of a progressive campus ministry in the Deep South shares concerns about how removing the trust clause might affect funding to extension ministries. (6-17-2018)

Key Issue: Will Outside Petitions Be Allowed at GC2019?

UMNS: Council of Bishops seeks a Declaratory Decision from Judicial Council on GC2019. (4-10-2018)

UMNS: Judicial Council Announces Special May 22-25 Session. (4-16-2918)

Docket of Special May 2018 Judicial Council session on this topic.

Read the briefs filed for this Judicial Council Decision. Of Note:

Bishops Ough and Jones disagree on both the facts and the application of church law.
Annual Conference chancellors write to limit actions available to General Conference 2019.
Lonnie Brooks and renewal leaders work to allow petitions from outside groups.

UMNS: The Judicial Council to Hold Oral Hearing on Bishops’ Request. Not all who filed briefs will be allowed to make oral arguments. (5-13-2018)

UMNS: Church Court Asked to Set Scope of Petitions (5-16-2018) A summary of the arguments to be made before the Judicial Council’s hearing.

Link to video of Oral Hearing by the Judicial Council (5-22-2018). Oral arguments before the Judicial Council. Fascinating to watch.

UMNS: “Question to Court: Who Can Submit Petitions?” (5-22-2018)

UMNS: “Bishops Urge Judicial Council to Restrict Petitions to the 2019 General Conference” (5-23-2019)

Good News: “Leadership or Manipulation?” by Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht (5-24-2018)

The Judicial Council Decision (5-25-2018). The Judicial Council voted 8-1 to allow outside petitions to General Conference 2018.

Responses to the Judicial Council Decision:

Council of Bishops’ Response (5-25-2018)
Tom Lambrecht’s article in Good News (5-25-2018)
The Wesleyan Covenant Association’s statement. (5-25-2018)
John Lomperis’ Statement (5-25-2018)

UMNS: “Court Ruling Spurs Competing Interpretations” (5-29-2018)

“Constitutional Methodism in Crisis” (May 2018) by William Lawrence and Sally Curtis Askew in The Methodist Review. This scholarly paper argues that the bishops improperly inserted themselves in the Way Forward process and perhaps illegally edited the work of The Commission on a Way Forward. The overall bent of the paper is that prohibitions against practicing homosexuals are unconstitutional. This claim has been made before Judicial Council several times and has not been supported by that body.

“UMC Roundup: (or ‘Fun Times with the Judicial Council’)” by David Watson. Academic Dean of United Theological Seminary explores the footnote in the recent Judicial Council ruling that says that the Council of Bishops do not have authority to bring recommendations to General Conference 2019. (6-13-2018)

May 2018 Council of Bishops Recommendations: News and Views

Council of Bishops’ Initial Press Release and Recommendations

UMNS: “Bishops’ Proposal Garners Range of Responses.”

UMNS: “Bishops’ Action Leads to Questions” (5-15-2018)

Council of Bishops Outgoing President Bruce Ough Video

The Wesleyan Covenant Association’s Statement on the Bishops’ Recommendations

Reconciling Ministries Network Statement

Adam Hamilton’s Statement

Good News’ Statement

UM Queer Clergy Caucus’ Statement

Mark Tooley’s video comments

Bishop Scott Jones’ Livestream event in the Texas Conference with Commissioners Jessica LaGrone and Leah Taylor. (May 12, 2018) Key revelations (some of which are contained in the online chat Q&A that followed):

The number of bishops actually supporting the One Church Model is higher than 50% but lower than 66%.
The level of support from the bishops for their recommendation only reached 80% with the inclusion of the Traditionalist Model.
The Traditionalist Model was only in sketch form for the bishops and The Commission is fleshing that sketch out now. It must be approved by the Executive Team of the Council of Bishops.
There is not a gracious exit provision in the One Church Model and Connectional Conference plan as presently written.
The Connectional Conference Plan would likely result in two “jurisdictions,” not three.

Council of Bishops’ Clarification on What they Did. (May 18, 2018)

Way Forward Commissioner Tom Lambrecht’s Interpretation of the shape of the Way Forward Report. (May 18, 2018)

UMNS: “Ask the UMC: Can you Explain Way Forward Plans, COB recommendation?” (5-22-2018)

Selected Statements by Individual Bishops:

Bishop Scott Jones of the Texas Conference
Bishop Frank Beard of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference
Bishop LaTrelle Miller Easterling of the Baltimore-Washington Conference
Bishop Rueben Saenz of the Great Plains Conference
Bishop Bob Farr of the Missouri Conference
Bishop Sharma Lewis’ video from the Virginia Conference
Bishop L. Jonathan Holston of the South Carolina Conference
Bishop Sally Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference
Bishop Laurie Haller from the Iowa Conference.
Bishop Ken Carter from the Florida Annual Conference
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar of the New England Conference
Bishop Gregory Palmer of the West Ohio Annual Conference

Council of Bishops video supporting the One Church Model. (5-29-2018)

Rob Renfroe’s speech at the Confessing Movement luncheon at the Texas Annual Conference (6-1-2018). The President of Good News gives a presentation about the weaknesses of the One Church Plan from a Traditionalist point of view.

“Methodists, The Politics of Leverage, and the Future of Protestantism” by Frederick Schmidt. (6-11-2018) Chair of Spiritual Formation at Garrett Evangelical Seminary (an Episcopalian) analyzes what the Methodist crisis reveals about the past, present, and future of Protestantism.

“Six Questions for the One Church/Local Option Plan” and “Six Questions for the Enforcement/Traditional Model” by Bob Phillips (6-7-2018)

NGAC Straw Poll. This Facebook post relays the results of a straw poll taken at the North Georgia Annual Conference related to changing the denominational position relative to homosexual practice. These results have not been verified. (6-14-2018)

One Church Plan Summary by Way Forward Commissioner Rev. Donna Pritchard. These images were tweeted by Rev. Jeremy Smith from a presentation to the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference. (6-13-2018)

“Annual Conferences Mixed on Bishops’ Plan” (UMNS) by Heather Hahn. A roundup of resolutions and actions taken during the 2018 annual conference season related to the Way Forward process. (6-15-2018)

South Georgia Annual Conference Resolution Supporting Enforcement of the Present Standards of the Book of Discipline. This resolution passed 431/179. (6-10-2018)

Northern Illinois Resolution Supporting Theological Diversity and the One Church Plan. This passed was approved after a floor debate that seemed to center on whether to wait for a plan for full inclusion to surface. (June 2018)

Virginia Conference Affirms Unity but not the One Church Plan posted by Robert Stutes on Facebook. The second largest annual conference in American United Methodism affirms a unity statement, but a resolution endorsing the One Church Plan fails. (6-17-2018)

“How Much Diversity Can Unity Tolerate? The United Methodist Church Will Soon Out” by Allen Bevere. The author argues that the fact a special General Conference is being called is ample evidence that issues of human sexuality involve things essential to our faith. (6-19-2018)

“2019 General Conference May Face Constitutional Challenges” by Dr. Ted Campbell. A Methodist historian reflects on “Constitutional Methodism in Crisis” by Lawrence and Askew and the specter of GC2019 not producing any solution. (6-20-2018)

“When Unity at All Costs is Too Costly” by Paul Lawler. An Independence Day message for UM pastors related to the Way Forward issues. (07-04-2018)

“Can a (Different) Book Help the Church Stay Together?” by Dr. David Scott of GBGM. Dr. Scott offers an alternative to The Anatomy of Peace as a guide to United Methodist unity: Christena Cleveland’s Disunity in Christ: Uncovering the Hidden Forces That Keep Us Apart (Downers Grove, IL: IVP Press, 2013). (Added 7-7-2018)

“Uh… Did I Miss Something?” by Chappel Temple. The Way Forward report is delayed (due to incomplete translation work) and Chap argues that it should have been done by now. (Added 7-9-2018)

“Commission on a Way Forward Final Report Being Translated” UMNS. The new anticipated date is July 30. (Added 7-9-2018)

“Failure of Leadership” by Rob Renfroe. The President of Good News responds to the Council of Bishops’ recommendation. (written 7-10-2018)

“Declaratory Decision sought 7-12-2018” COB Press Release. One Commission member told me that the One Church Plan is most in question because it delegates General Conference powers to the annual conferences. (Added 7-12-2018)

“GC Delegates Discuss Way Forward” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. Report of an invitation-only delegate meeting called by Lonnie Chafin and attended by 55 delegates. You can also find a critique of this meeting by a traditionalist attendee. (Added 7-18-2018)

“Uniting Methodists get Strategic” by Sam Hodges in UMNS. A report from the Uniting Methodist July gathering in Dallas. (Added 7-20-2018)

“The COWF Report – unedited” by Andrew Book. The pastor of Courtland UMC in Virginia gives a presentation on the Way Forward options. He shared it on Twitter asking for feedback and does a good a job explaining things in 15 minutes. (Added 8-21-2018)

“Who Shall We Trust to Lead the UMC Into the Future?” by Gilbert Caldwell via UM Insight. Retired clergy member of the former Rocky Mountain Annual Conference and Civil Rights leader argues for siding with Progressives in the denominational human sexuality debate. (Added 8-22-2018)

“C ommentary: Why I Stay” by Kim Nelson via UMNS. A gay candidate for ministry in the Alabama-West Florida conference offers his thoughts on why he stays in the UMC. (Added 2-5-2019)

“The WCA Says, ‘Just Turn it Off’ to GLBTQI People” by Christy Thomas. The author must have missed the memo to wait until February 27 to drop the pretense that the Traditional view of marriage will be respected/protected if the UMC just allows a bit more room for dissent.

Official Way Forward Resources

UMC Prays

The official prayer site of the Way Forward and General Conference 2019 (Added 0-5-2019)

The Official Website for the Commission on a Way Forward

The commission has a rather light web presence. This might be due to the fact that their meeting are closed and they ultimately report to the Council of Bishops, not the entire UMC.

Status Updates from the Moderators

The three bishops that moderate the Commission on a Way Forward offer periodic status updates that can be found here:

List of Commissioners

Meet the 32 members of The Commission on a Way Forward

The Official Council of Bishops Guidebook for the Way Forward Process

The Council of Bishops released the handbook prepared to help guide them through the Way Forward Process. It is called Finding a Way Forward: Resources for Witness, Contextual Leadership, and Unity. You can access it as a PDF file here.

The Commission’s Facebook Page and Twitter Feed

The Commission’s Facebook Page is current followed by over 5,000 people. It’s Twitter feed has over 500 followers.

UMNS Coverage of the Commission on a Way Forward

The Council of Bishops’ Three Possible Models

There are three models being outlined by the Commission on a Way Forward for the Council of Bishops to consider. The Council of Bishops is taking a more active lead and will be the body putting forth recommendations to General Conference 2019 in St. Louis. (November 9, 2017 by UMNS)

Major Update Following the February 2018 Council of Bishops Meeting

At the February 2018 Council of Bishops meeting, only two of the three models were seriously studied. This is the report coming from that meeting.

Arkansas Conference’s Study of the Way Forward Options

“Mission Ecclesiology: Engaging the Commission on a Way Forward in Mission” by Dr. David Scott. The Director of Mission Theology for GBGM shares the information he provided to the Commission on a Way Forward to help guide their work. (Added 8-2-2018)

Video Resources 2018:

Commission on A Way Forward Moderators Overview: Bishops Sandra Steiner Ball, David Yemba and Ken Carter share an overview of their role as moderators for the Commission and how service was one of their primary focus. (Length 5:35).
You Tube: https://youtu.be/5tOGnPrLqKg
Dave Nuckols (laity, Minnesota) and Helen Cunanan (clergy, Philippines) – have a conversation about the Commission on A Way Forward sharing their experiences from very different places in the world. (Length 7:50).
YouTube: https://youtu.be/pJCPnFqQgUU
Bishops Gregory Palmer and Robert Schnase, who are members of the Commission, talk about how the work of the Commission points to the larger mission of The United Methodist Church. (Length 5:35). YouTube: https://youtu.be/52EVb7wuva8
Patricia Miller, Executive Director of the Confessing Movement, and Matt Berryman, former Executive Director of Reconciling Ministries Network, talk about their friendship and their experiences serving together on the Commission. (Length 7:55) YouTube:: https://youtu.be/xbR96EBl5Qk
Commission members Mazvita Machinga (laity, Zimbabwe East Conference), David Field (laity, Swiss Conference), and Myungrae Kim Lee (laity, New York Conference), share their thoughts about the work of the Commission. (Length 10:56) YouTube: https://youtu.be/rfL-en8wnho
A Parable for Today is a video featuring Commission consultant, Gil Rendle. Gil shares a story that illustrates the difference between positions and interests. When we are able to move from holding onto our positions to seeking to understand each other’s underlying interests, we are better able to move forward together. (Length 5:14). YouTube: https://youtu.be/D8ZGS6Dpl9g
Gil Rendle gives an overview of the Purpose, Principles and Importance of the work of the Commission. This video was recorded during the final Commission meeting in May 2018. The video gives an in-depth theological and technical overview of the work done by the Commission that helps to frame the task given to the delegates to the February 2019 General Conference. (Length 54:18).
YouTube: https://youtu.be/j9sDqunec2o
Bishop Grant Hagiya, a member of the Commission, shares reflections on the book Anatomy of Peace. Bishop Hagiya explains why the principles of this book can help us make a fundamental shift to allowing spaces where people can have open and honest dialogue with one another. (Length 5:44) YouTube: https://youtu.be/6trW2HJuwP8
Commission members Donna Pritchard (clergy, Oregon-Idaho Conference), Tom Salsgiver (clergy, Susquehanna Conference) and Leah Taylor (laity, Texas Conference) share reflections on their work, the value of connection, and the relationships they formed during their time together as members on the Commission. (Length 7:02) YouTube: https://youtu.be/v15xKo_URFU
Jasmine Smothers, Julie Hager Love and Tom Berlin are Commission members who are also clergy serving in the Southeastern Jurisdiction (SEJ). In this interview, they reflect on their experience and their hopes for the future of the United Methodist Church. (Length 5:46). YouTube: https://youtu.be/85KP5qxfCpA
“Seeing a Way Forward: Bishop Harvey” by Bishop Cynthia Fiero Harvey. The bishop of the Louisiana Episcopal Area filmed videos about the Way Forward. This is first in a new series of videos. (Added 9-06-2018)
“Seeing a Way Forward: Bishop Alsted” by UMNS. A series of videos featuring Bishop Christian Alsted of the Nordic and Baltic Episcopal Area calling for unity. (Added 9-27-2018)
“S eeing a Way Forward: Bishop Bickerson” via UMNS. Bishop Thomas Bickerson of the New York Conference shares his thoughts on the Way Forward via a series of videos. (Added 11-10-2018)

Books

The Marks of Hope: Where the Spirit is Moving in a Wounded Church (March 2018) by Matt Rawle;

Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and the United Methodist Church, a Four-Week Study (August 2017) by David L. Barnhart, Jr., Rebekah Jordan, Alex Joyner, and Jill M. Johnson.

Is It Time? Helping Laity and Clergy Discuss Homosexuality One Question at a Time (November 2017) by Adolph Hansen.

Are We Really Better Together? An Evangelical Perspective on the Division in the UMC (April 2018) by Rob Renfroe and Walter Fenton.

The Fight for Marriage: Church Conflicts and Courtroom Contests (April 2018) by Phillip F. Cramer and Willam L. Harbison.

Our Strangely Warmed Hearts: Coming Out into God’s Call (April 2018) by Karen P. Oliveto.

The 19: Questions to Kindle a Wesleyan Spirit (May 2018) by Carolyn Moore.

Our Purpose is Love: The Wesleyan Way to Be the Church (May 2018) by David N. Field.

A New Church and a New Seminary: Theological Education is the Solution (May 2018) by David McAllister-Wilson.

The Arbinger Institute. (2006) The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict. Oakland, California: Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

This book has been studied by the Commission on a Way Forward and the Council of Bishops as a model for addressing conflict. It does not address the United Methodist Church or our divisions directly, but is often quoted and put forth as a recommended resource. Having inner clarity and peace (a “heart of peace”) is offered as a key to resolving conflict. A summary can be found here.

Booth, Karen (2012)Forgetting How to Blush: United Methodism’s Compromise with the Sexual Revolution. Franklin, Tennessee: Bristol House.

I have not read this one, but the book is reviewed as very well researched. A description by the publisher: “Tracing the historical, scientific, political, religious and cultural trends in relation to the sexual revolution, Karen Booth exposes many assumptions, alliances and errors that are rarely considered in the public dialogues and debates over the church’s stance on homosexuality.”

Cantrell, Wil. (2017) Unafraid and Unashamed: Facing the Future of United Methodism. Knoxville, Tennessee: Market Square Publishing.

Rev. Wil Cantrell is a two-time General Conference delegate from the Holston Conference and a member of the executive committee of the World Methodist Council. His book is a call to humility, understanding, and centrism. It is an accessible, 145 page, work that attempts to describe the impasse we face and offer a “maybe none of us have all the answers” sort of approach.

Field, David N. (2017) Bid Our Jarring Conflicts Cease: A Wesleyan Theology and Praxis of Church Unity. Nashville, Tennesee: General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

David Field, Academic Coordinator for the Methodist e-Academy and lay member of the UMC in Switzerland, offers a theological basis for Methodist unity based on John Wesley’s emphases on inner holiness, the catholic spirit, and cautions against bigotry. This book has been recommended by the Uniting Methodist movement and is written from a progressive compatibilist perspective.

Greenway, Jeff, Pirona, Carlos, Ritter, Chris, Moore, Carolyn, Dunnam, Maxie, Forrest, Andrew, Reisman, Kimberly, and Boyette, Keith. (2017) A Firm Foundation: Hope and Vision for a New Methodist Future. Franklin, Tennessee: Seedbed.

The Wesleyan Covenant Association published this seven-chapter book as a study guide for United Methodists seeking to understand the issues that give rise to the work of the Way Forward Commission. WCA is a membership-based renewal organization that began in 2016. Rather than talking about homosexuality, the book lifts up a vision for a new Methodism that is faithful to the old. Topics discussed are the Lordship of Jesus, The Authority of Scripture, the work of the Holy Spirit, personal holiness, intentional discipleship, and global mission. There is an accompanying DVD that features discussion sessions hosted by Rev. Jessica LaGrone, a members of the Commission on a Way Forward.

Higher Education and Ministry (2017) Unity of the Church and Human Sexuality: Toward a Faithful United Methodist Witness. Nashville, Tennessee: General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

This 572-page book grew out of a March 2017 Theological Colloquy held at Candler School of Theology and sponsored by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. The content of the colloquy can also be found free online. I speculate that the tone of the colloquy turned out to be less hopeful about unity than it was envisioned to be by the planners. One headline was Dr. William Abraham’s paper called “In Defense of Mexit: Disagreement and Disunity in United Methodism.” The 104 page study guide is conciliatory in tone and is designed for local church use. It is available as a free pdf here. The moderators of the Commission on a Way Forward recently mailed the study guide to every General Conference delegate.

Heidinger, James V. (2017) The Rise of Theological Liberalism and the Decline of American Methodism. Franklin, Tennessee: Seedbed.

This sizable book traces the development of theological liberalism within United Methodism and is predecessor bodies. It is a “how did we get here?’ sort of book with a clear ideological perspective. Dr. James V. Heidinger II served as president and publisher of Good News, an evangelical renewal ministry within the United Methodist Church, from 1981 to 2009.

Lawrence, William B. (2018) A Methodist Requiem: Word of Hope and Resurrection for the Church. Nashville, Tennessee: General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

This 2018 release laments the current state of affairs while it attempts to describe what a United Methodist break-up might entail. The author, a professor of American Church History at Perkins School of Theology, reaches back to the split of 1844 for context. Details about how a split might affect church-related institutions is discussed, as is the trust clause. AMethodist Requiem is written from generally a progressive compatibilist point of view.

Online Interpretive Resources

GetReligion Podcast on the UMC Crisis

GetReligion editor Terry Mattingly discusses “Life post Sexual Revolution: Trying to keep the ‘united’ in United Methodists.” (March 23, 2018)

The “Sugar Packets” Talk

Rev. Tom Berlin of Floris UMC in Virginia has been asked to give his famous sugar packet presentation in several different venues. It explains divisions in the U.S. in terms of four categories: progressive incompatibilists, progress compatibilists, traditionalist compatibilists, and traditional incompatibilists. (May 12, 2017)

The Birth Pangs of United Methodism as a Unique, Global, Orthodox Denomination

Dr. Billy Abraham, Albert Cook Outler Chair of Methodist Studies at Perkins School of Theology, offers his hope that the United Methodist Church will move in the direction of classic Christian orthodoxy. (August 2016)

The “Wicked Problem” of The United Methodist Church: Points to Ponder for a Church in Crisis

Rev. Dr. Robert Phillips, pastor emeritus of Peoria First United Methodist Church and retired Navy chaplain, offers his insights into the complex nature of our United Methodist dilemma. (9/20/2016)

A Divided United Methodist Church: How We’ll Fail at the Main Thing

James Howell, pastor of Myers Park United Methodist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, makes his appeal for UM unity. (11/27/2016)

The Big Sort

The impact of United Methodist schism on U.S. annual conferences is discussed. (12/20/2017)

The UMC’s Messy Language About Human Sexuality

A brief history of the UMC’s debate over homosexuality by Chris Ritter. (4/21/2016)

Schism Map 2.0

This post maps the U.S. annual conferences that have officially taken a position of defiance to the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. (7/13/2017)

United Methodist Future(s)

Chris Ritter describes the United Methodist Church as a flotilla of associated conferences, councils, and general agencies and discusses what this might mean if we chart separate courses. (9/6/2016)

Exit Ramps on the Way Forward

From February 2018, this is a discussion of the possible shape of the “exit ramps” promised by the Commission on a Way Forward and their implications for the UMC. (2/13/2018)

The Death of Homogenized United Methodism

This is a Circuit Rider Magazine piece by Chris Ritter in which he breaks down the reasons why our homogenized structure no longer fits our current reality. (4/1/2016)

Tom Lambrecht’s Blog

Tom is a member of the Way Forward Commission and vice president of Good News. He writes insightfully about the issues under discussion.

“The Politics of The United Methodist Church”

Indiana pastor, A.W. Collins explains the proportionality of the left, right, and center in the present UMC debates.

David Scott’s GBGM Blog

David Scott is the Director of Mission Theology at the General Board of Global Ministries and often offers helpful perspectives on the Way Forward. See especially:

Fifty-Five Futures for the UMC (11/21/2017)

Unity and the Modern Denomination (11/28/2017)

“Are There Too Few Mainline Denominations” by David Scott. The Director of Mission Theology for the General Board of Global Ministries asks if diversifying denominational structures might be a good thing. (Added 7-27-2018)

Others

“Constitutional Methodism in Crisis” (Volume 10, May 2018) by William Lawrence and Sally Curtis AsKew in The Methodist Review. A scholarly and lengthy study of the interplay of the constitutional powers of the UMC as related to the human sexuality issue. The link is a PDF.

“Let’s Make a Deal, #UMC Style” (11/14/2018) by Dr. David Watson, Academic Dean of United Theological Seminary. He reviews the three models offered by the Way Forward Commission.

“A Milepost on the Way Forward” (11/11/2017) Reflections on the November 2017 Status Update for the Commission.

“Brown Sugar: Walling Out the Global South” (5/18/2017) by Chris Ritter. This post explores how many otherwise inclusive folks want to nevertheless exclude the global church from decisions affecting the U.S.

“Why is Schism Such a Dirty Word?” (4/26/2017) by Shane Raynor. Borrowing a concept from the business world, Raynor suggests we may “spin off” a new type of Methodism that would allow us each group to better operate with a common mission.

“UMC Unity: The Oliveto Effect” (7/25/2016) by Dr. Chris Ritter. How the presence of Bishop Oliveto complicates efforts at church unity.

“Uniting Methodists and Diocesan Methodism” (10/23/2017) Bishop Scott Jones reflects on proposals by the Uniting Methodists group.

Lonnie Brooks analyses the Way Forward options. An experienced conference lay leaders from Alaska, Lonnie Brooks offers his analysis of the three Way Forward models. This link will take you to his various blogs on UM Insight.

“The Missional Split of 1844.” (3/28/2014 by Dr. Chris Ritter. A brief history of the last large-scale Methodism schism.

“UMC Separation Calmly Considered” (2/18/18) by Dr. Ted Campbell, Professor of Church History at Perkins School of Theology. Campbell argues that other factors besides human sexuality may come into play in a United Methodist separation.

“Barbarians to Bureaucrats: Why the UMC Needs Its Own Donald Trump” (1/9/2018) by Rev. Christy Thomas, blogger and retired clergy from Texas. This provocative piece makes the case that the UMC as an institution does not serve its constituents well and needs disruption.

Alaska Conference Lay Leader Lonnie Brooks argues that ecclesial charges against Attorney General Sessions “has the potential to guarantee the failure of General Conference 2019.” From Facebook (6-20-2018) Also, see this from the Religion News Service. (6-22-2018)

“The Americans Know this Will End in Schism” by N.T. Wright. The Bishop of Durham’s 2009 response to the election of Gene Robinson to the episcopacy in The Episcopal Church. Offered as a summary of traditionalist arguments on the issue of human sexuality. (Added 7-12-2018)

“The EUB Methodist Merger and the Way Forward” by Riley Case. This analysis of the Way Forward in light of the 1968 merger appeared on The Confessing Movement Facebook page in January 2018. (Added 7-27-2018)

Brief Emotional Video shared by First United Methodist Church in Pasadena, California on the Way Forward. (Added 8-3-2018)

“Adam Hamilton: Liberal United Methodists Have a ‘High View’ of Scripture, Too” by Dan Moran. Hamilton’s talk at the Uniting Conference is critiqued as dismissive of scriptures we, in our culture and experience, find problematic. (Added 8-11-2018)

“The #UMC: A Time to Love” by Ken Loyer. Wesleyan Way shares this challenge to use our doctrinal heritage as we discern a Way Forward in love. (Added 8-13-2018)

“Splitting the Church is Just ‘Tacky’” by Kenneth Carder. A retired bishop acknowledges the institution must change, but argues against a traditionalist/progressive split. (Added 7-15-2018)

“The Hopefulness of Mission, or Why I am Not Worried about the Future of the UMC” by Lisa Beth White. The Founder of Sister of Hope Ministries shares her confidence that mission will continue no matter what happens to the UMC. “I choose to live in a posture of hope because the mission work of everyday United Methodists reveals the ongoing call of God through the gift of the Holy Spirit to live in love.” (Added 8-18-2018)

“A Way Forward? To Each Their Own Convictions” by Katie Dawson via Salvaged Faith. A General Conference delegate offers a sermon series on the Way Forward to the church she serves as pastor. See also “A Way Forward? Fixed and Free” and “A Way Forward? 25-cent Words” (Added 8-26-2018)

“United Methodists are Not Very United These Days” by Bob Ditmer via churchleaders.com. An summary of the UMC sexuality debate from an outside point of view in the religious press. (Added 8-26-2018)

“Courageous Conversation about the Way Forward” by Discipleship Ministries. UMC Discipleship Ministries produces format for conversations about the three Way Forward Models. See also the UMNS press release here. (Added 9-01-2018)

“The Future of Methodism” by Billy Cox via UM Insight. A retired military chaplain argues that the human sexuality debate is not unlike other divisive issues that have threatened the unity of the church. (Added 9-1-2018)

“Presentation to the Alabama-West Florida Wesleyan Covenant Association Gathering” by Shane Bishop (video). The pastor of the largest United Methodist congregation in Illinois shares a message with around 450 gathered at the Alabama-West Florida gathering of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. (Added 9-1-2018)

“Three Misleading Claims in WCA/Good News’ Book for GC2019” by Jeremy Smith via UM Insight. A UM Pastor/Blogger critiques Are We Really Better Together by Rob Renfroe and Walter Fenton. (Added 9-04-2018)

“A Good Word for ‘What If?‘” by Bob Phillips via PeopleneedJesus.net. A General Conference delegate calls for believing the best in each other, even amidst uncertainty, as GC2019 approaches. (Added 9-13-2018)

“Why I Changed my Mind about Homosexuality and the Church” by Bishop Ken Carder. A retired United Methodist bishop shares why he changed his mind years ago about homosexuality. (Added 9-27-2018)

“Acts 15 Doesn’t Mean What You Think It Means” by Bill Arnold. Professor of Old Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary discusses the misuse of Acts 15 by those who want to change the church’s teachings on human sexuality. (Added 10-2-2018)

“Delegates to First Wesleyan Covenant Association Legislative Assembly to Consider Resoltuions” by Walter Fenton. Items to be considered by the November 2018 Legislative Assembly of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, including a statement on the Way Forward options (Resolution-Concerning-General-Conference.GLAdraft2 and founding principles for a new Methodist denomination (features-principles-final.GLAdraft2) should that become necessary. (Added 10-24-2018)

“Methodism’s Road to Crisis” by Scott Kisker. A video recorded at the meeting of the Northeastern Jurisdictional Evangelical Connection at Evangelical Seminary in Myerstown, PA on October 20, 2018. It was the first of two talks that Dr. Kisker gave on the state of United Methodism. (Added 10-27-2018)

“Unashamed of the Gospel” by Bishop Scott Jones. A presentation by Bishop Jones at the November 2018 Global Gathering of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. (Added 11-05-2018)

On November 3, 2018, the Wesleyan Covenant Association convened its first-ever legislative assembly. The body received this report (A Statement by the WCA Council November 2018) from the WCA Council. Elections were held to the 2021 class of the WCA Council and the following statements were approved: Resolution Concerning General Conference, Doctrinal Standards Working Document, Next Steps Resolution, Principles and Features of a New Methodist Denomination, WCA Radical Hospitality Statement.

“Can Wesleyanism Evolve or Does it Belong in the 18th Century?” by Morgan Guyton. A UM Campus minister posits that things have evolved beyond what John Wesley could have imagined and it is time for something new. (Added 11-05-2018)

“A Call for Unity of the Church” by Inter-Ethnic Strategy Development Group. A gathering of the various ethic caucuses of the UMC gathered to say they are not of one mind on human sexuality but support the unity of the church. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Large South Carolina Church Asks to Withdraw from the UMC” by Jessica Brodie. Christ UMC in Myrtle Beach, SC asks to withdraw from the UMC because both the One Church Plan and the Traditional Plan would paint them in a bad light to their community. (Added 11-05-2018)

“Gauging the Way Forward’s Impact on Mission” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. A report from the October 31-November 2 meeting of the Connectional Table. (Added 11-06-2018)

“UMC: Telegraphing” by Steve Harper. Critique of the WCA Global Gathering, which the author views as telegraphing separation. (Added 11-7-2018)

“A Narrative of our Leadership” by the UMC Council of Bishops. From their November 2018 meeting, the episcopal leaders of the UMC provide a narrative of their actions related to the Way Forward. (Added 11-8-2018)

“The WCA is Just an Insurance Policy in Case their Takeover of the UMC Fails” by Jeremy Smith. A UM Progressive Blogger questions the goals of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. (Added 11-10-2018)

“Amicable Separation or Political Leverage?” by Morgan Guyton. A UM Progressive blogger questions the goals of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. (Added 11-10-2018)

“The Fallacy of the Big Tent” by Tom Lambrecht. Seeing the church as a big tent is problematic when that tent includes separate moral standards. See also the response by David Livingstone, “Which Tent Do you Want to Live In?” (Added 11-20-2018)

“Want Schism? Kiss Young People Goodbye” by Trevor Warren. A young adult laity from Texas says that young people will walk away from a church that fractures over human sexuality issues. (Added 12-19-2018)

“S even Shifts that Shape the Future of Methodism” by Stephen Fife via Wesleyan Way. The author proposes a list of megatrends to watch, including a prediction of multiple denominations coming from the UMC. (Added 1-3-2019)

“Simple Plan Supporters Talk Strategy” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. (Added 1-15-2019)

“Toward a Progressive Methodist Vision” by Sarah Rohret. Talk has begun on the shape of a Progressive Methodist Church coming out of General Conference 2019. (Added 1-21-2019)

“Why Was My Petition Invalidated?” by Lonnie Brooks. A lay leader from Alaska questions why one of his petitions was ruled not in harmony with the call of General Conference. (Added 1-21-2019)

“The Real United Methodist Crisis: Loss of U.S. Political Power to the Growing Church in Africa” by Lloyd Narayota. An African pastor serving in Canada offers his perspectives. (Added 1-21-2019)

“Three Realities Facing General Conference 2019” by Andrew Ponder Williams. A former General Conference delegate and church consultant argues against division. (Added 1-21-2019)

“LGBTQ UMC Agenda: Organized, Strategic, Funded, and Powerful” by Lee Cary and Philip McLarty via Juicy Ecumenism. (Added 1-22-2019)

“WCA Details Departure” by Mainstream UMC. More questionable reporting from a group committed to passage of the One Church Plan. (Added 1-23-2019)

“We Should Welcome to UMC’s Inevitable Fracture for Missional Reasons” by Jack Jackson. The E. Stanley Jones Associate Professor of Evangelism, Mission, and Global Methodism and Director of the Center for Global Methodism at Claremont School of Theology argues that Methodism, at its best, favors mission over unity. (Added 1-24-2019)

“Be of Good Cheer. I Have Overcome the World” by Brad Scott. Encouragement to remember that Jesus is the Lord of the Church as we approached GC2019. (Added 1-30-2019)

“Important Wespath Pension Information on the Way Forward” by Bishop Mike Lowry. A UMC bishops shares information from Wespath issued to counteract erroneous information being shared about the pension implications of the plans. (Added 2-3-2019)

“RMS Titanic vs. UMC Titanic: A Happy Ending” by Bob Phillips. Two expressions of United Methodism will be the best outcome of General Conference 2019. (Added 2-3-2019)

“The United Methodist Church Should Split over LGBTQ+ Inclusion” by Emily Swan. A lesbian pastor explains why justice demands a denominational split. (Added 2-14-2019)

“Sexuality and the UMC” by Dale Coulter via First Things. An insightful look at the realities we face at GC2019. (Added 2-20-2019).

“Sexuality and Christian Doctrine” by Jason Vickers via Soundcloud. (Added 2-20-2019)

“In Search of Normative Methodism” by Chad Brooks. A thoughtful read. (Added 2-20-2019)

“What are the Laws and Views on Homosexuality in Europe and Eurasia?” by David Scott. (Added 2-20-2019).

Global & Multi-Cultural Perspectives

“European/Eurasian Delegates Unhappy with Lobbying” by Sam Hodges via UMNS. The activity of caucus groups is straining already divided central conferences in Europe and Eurasia. (Added 1-26-2019)

“Africa Initiative Calls for Global Prayer, Fasting” by E. Juju Swen via UMNS. Leaders from the church in Africa call the global UMC to prayer as GC2019 approaches. (Added 1-26-2019)

“European and Eurasian Delegates Discuss GC2019” by Bishop Alsted, shared via UM& Global. Great differences of opinion exist among European United Methodists. (Added 1-22-2019)

“Commentary: The Best Scenario for the Korean Church” by Sungho See via UMNS. A Korean pastor shares his hope for the Way Forward. (Added 1-11-2019)

“Seeing a Way Forward: Bishop Yambasu” shared via UMNS. The bishop of the Sierra Leone Episcopal Area is featured in this series of videos about the Way Forward. (Added 10-5-2018)

“Four Interpretations of the African UMC’s Bishops’ Statement” by David Scott via UM & Global. The Director of Mission Theology for the General Board of Global Ministries reflects on various interpretations of the recent statement by African Bishops. The Uniting Methodists (erroneously, I think) interpreted the statement as a nod to the One Church Plan. See the UMNS Article about this. (Added 9-27-2018, Updated 10-2-2018)

“African Bishops Reaffirm Stance on Marriage, Vow to Maintain Unity” by Phileas Jusu via UMNS. A news report from the gathering of African UM bishops in Sierra Leone. (Added 9-25-2018)

“Commentary: African Delegates Need Information Before Forming Opinions” by Lloyd Nyarota via UMNS. A pastor native to Zimbabwe, now serving in Canada, writes in support of the One Church Plan. (Added 9-13-2018)

“Central Conference and U.S. United Methodists Meet to Listen” by Greg Nelson via UM Insight. Report of a meeting sponsored by the Love Your Neighbor Coalition to engage overseas delegates on the upcoming human sexuality votes at General Conference. (Added 8-30-2018)

“Homosexual Marriage in Light of the Incarnation: Marriage, Symbol, and the Imago Dei” by Jefferson Labala. A 2014 theological paper presenting a United Methodist and African perspective on same-sex marriage. This has been re-shared recently. (Added 8-27-2018)

Whither the Central Conferences in a Loosened Connection?, Part One & Part Two by Dr. David Scott of the General Board of Global Ministries

Why Africans will Determine the Outcome of General Conference [2019] by Dr. David Scott of the General Board of Global Ministries

The Global Nature of the United Methodist Church by Rev. Jerry Kulah of the Liberia Annual Conference. This is from 2008, but it represents the thinking of many African delegates to General Conference. Also see his address to General Conference 2016.

“Elaine Robertson: #MyHope4Methodism” posted on UM & Global. Professor of Methodist Studies and Christian Theology at St. Paul’s School of Theology speak of the current United Methodist impasse in the context of Global Christianity & Methodism. (Added 7-14-2018)

“UMC Challenges: Geography, Finances, Theology” by Mark Holland. The Executive Director of Mainstream UMC explains why Africans participation is problematic in The United Methodist Church. See also this PDF Version. From February 2017 (Added 7-23-2019)

“What are United Methodist views on Homosexuality in the Philippines?” by Dr. David Scott. The Director of Mission Theology for GBGM reflects on views related to human sexuality in the Philippines. (Added 8-8-2018)

“Filipinos Discuss Way Forward Plans” By Gladys Mangiduyos via UMNS. A roundup of reactions to the Way Forward Plans from the Philippines. (Added 7-30-2018)

“Korean United Methodists Choose Prayer Over Plans” by Rev. Thomas Kim via UMNS. Korean United Methodists take their concerns about the Way Forward plans to prayer. (Added 8-11-2018)

“Hispanic/Latino Caucus Support One Church Plan” by Gustavo Vasquez via UMNS. Report of MARCHA’s 42-16 vote to support the One Church Plan. (Added 8-22-2018)

Legislative Sketches for General Conference 2019

An “Option One” Accountability Plan (COWF Model One)

Dr. Chris Ritter offers his thoughts on what The Commission on a Way Forward’s “Option One” might look like. He limits his proposals to things that can be accomplished within our current constitution.

Concerned Alaskans’ Local Option (COWF Model Two)

Concerned Alaskans, a group headed by long-time lay leader Lonnie Brooks, offers legislation that would enact the Local Option. They attempt to make it palatable by localizing our episcopacy: “…the election and consecration of Karen Oliveto to the office of Bishop has made the Local Option untenable without [constitutional] change.” The plan mandates constitutional amendments which require super-majority passage and 2/3 ratification votes around the world.

Hybrid Way Forward Legislation Version 2.2(COWF Model Three)

Dr. Chris Ritter offers a synthesis of the three Way Forward Models to create a structural solution that can be accomplished without amending our constitution. It probably fits best under Option Three, a multi-branch plan. It creates affiliated autonomous conferences within the U.S. that remain tied to the UMC through a pre-approved concordat agreement.

Movements and Caucuses

Reconciling Ministries

The largest group dedicated to the full inclusion of LGBTQI persons in The United Methodist Church. Much of their funding comes from outside the denomination.

The Wesleyan Covenant Association

Launched in October 2016 with around 1800 attendees at an organizational meeting in Chicago, WCA is a membership-based organization dedicated to an orthodox, global direction for the UMC. They had their second global gathering at The Woodlands United Methodist Church in October 2017 with dozens of live-streaming sites all over the nation. Over a thousand United Methodist clergy are dues-paying members of WCA. There are also individual lay members and entire congregations that have joined.

Love Prevails

Love Prevails has vowed to disrupt United Methodist proceedings until their demands of full inclusion for LGBTQI people are met.

UM Action

The Institute on Religion and Democracy’s wing dedicated to influencing The United Methodist Church in a conservative direction. UMAction has stood opposed to schism and has promoted accountability to the Book of Discipline‘s current language.

Good News

Good News has existed since 1967 as a major renewal group in the UMC. They publish Good News Magazine which is a primary resource for the evangelical/orthodox perspective within United Methodism.

United Methodist Queer Clergy Caucus

From their website: “The United Methodist Queer Clergy Caucus (UMQCC) is made up of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people who are called, commissioned, and ordained clergy in the United Methodist Church.”

The Confessing Movement

A group dedicated to doctrinal renewal within United Methodism.

Uniting Methodists

Some 250 United Methodists gathered in Atlanta in the fall of 2017 to support church unity and a “local option” solution. Some of these participants were part of a previous association called The Centrist Movement, which was based in West Ohio.

Uniting Methodist Conference videos. These videos are from the July 2018 Gathering of the Uniting Methodist Movement in Dallas which supports passage of the One Church Plan. (Added 7-24-2018)

Methodist Federation for Social Action

MFSA is a voice for progressive action within United Methodism.

Love Your Neighbor Coalition

This is a collection of thirteen member organization that bands together to influence voting at General Conference. (Its counterpart on the conservative side is called the Renewal and Reform Coalition.) Members of LYNC include: Affirmation, Black Methodists for Church Renewal, Fossil Free UMC, MARCHA: Metodistas Asociados Representando la Causa Hispano-Americanos, Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA), Methodists in New Directions (MIND), National Federation of Asian American United Methodists (NFAAUM), Native American International Caucus (NAIC), Pacific Islanders Caucus of United Methodists (PINCUM), Reconciling Ministries Network, United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities, and Western Methodist Justice Movement (WMJM). Below is LYNC’s statement for the Commission on a Way Forward on their website.

The Renewal and Reform Coalition

The conservative counterpart to the progressive Love Your Neighbor Coalition (see above) is The Renewal and Reform Coalition. Like LYNC, this group bands together to influence voting at General Conference. Member organizations include: The Confessing Movement within The United Methodist Church, Good News, Lifewatch, RENEW, Transforming Congregations, and UM Action.

A Round-up of Statements solicited from Caucus Groups

The Commission on a Way Forward solicited input from various caucus groups. This news story shares some of those.

Mainstream UMC – Rev. Dr. Mark Holland, a General Conference delegate from the Great Plains Conference, is taking a year’s sabbatical dedicated to promoting the One Church Plan. This is the website for his organization. (Added 7-17-2018)

“Mainstream UMC Vision and Fundraising Document” How a new organization wants to organize and raise $250,000 to combat the Wesleyan Covenant Association and other traditionalist groups at General Conference 2019. (Added 7-20-2018)

Older Legislative Proposals (for General Conference 2016)

12 thoughts on “The Way Forward: A (Semi)Comprehensive Compendium”

Beth Ann says:

February 15, 2018 at 11:26 pm

Thanks for compiling all of this. I just shared it with our delegation–very helpful.

Luke says:

February 16, 2018 at 9:55 pm

I found Dr. David Scott’s article on unity helpful.
http://www.umglobal.org/2017/11/unity-and-modern-denomination.html

1. critter1969 says:
  
  February 17, 2018 at 12:51 am
  
  Thanks! I should have thoughts of David Scott. I read him often for perspectives on the global UMC.
  
Pingback: Roundup: Legislative Proposals for General Conference 2019 – People Need Jesus
betsypc says:

February 26, 2018 at 2:51 pm

As a pew person, what gives me the greatest pause in this is the number of organized factions. I was taught that Methodism was its own unique faith tradition that was only a small part of the much larger Body of Christ–and that is the type of church I thought I was pledging to uphold with my prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness. What exactly am I upholding? Which version of Methodism am I supporting? And to make matters more complicated, it turns out I live in a truly theologically diverse area and differences in pastors are no longer just defined by their individual strengths and weaknesses but by what they believe the church needs to be doing! I don’t have to go church hopping–if I sit still long enough a new church will appear. How do I support this? I have not found that continually adapting to a “new and improved” way to “do church” promotes a deeper understanding of God!

Wade H says:

August 10, 2018 at 6:05 pm

Chris, this is great work and very helpful. Thanks a lot for this work you have done here. I do have a question. In this mountain of opinions is there a time line of the Report of the Way Forward from inception to the COB release? And an unbiased (as best as can be) summary of each of the three plans. I need a resource to help inform my congregation. Thaks

1. critter1969 says:
  
  August 10, 2018 at 6:13 pm
  
  Thanks, Wade. I don’t know of a Way Forward Timeline as such, but the Way Forward Report itself includes a historical narrative. As for summaries, my writings are the only unbiased stuff out there:-) Each plan in the Way Forward report includes introductory material along with a summary. Each is fairly objective, but written to promote that particular plan.
  
Mike Cooper says:

September 1, 2018 at 12:10 pm

I noticed 2 things in the Discipleship Ministries Courageous Conversations:
1. There is a separate session for each of the 3 plans. However, only the One Church Plan pushed by many of the Bishops has a video supporting it.
2. There is a summary of each of the 3 plans near the end. That summary significantly leaves out that the Traditional Plan has a gracious exit provision for those who could not live under it, and that the One Church Plan contains no such provision.

Thanks for posting all of these. I check your site frequently for updates.

In Christ,

Mike Cooper

betsypc says:

October 19, 2018 at 2:24 pm

You should check out this article by what I presume is a local pastor who attended a jurisdictional gathering for GC2019 delegates.

http://unsettledchristianity.com/methodists-and-mission/

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	Martha Newton Berry on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	DAVID RASH on Methodist Mitosis 2.0: New Tho…
	Eileen Thrift on Retired Clergy and The Ghost o…

	Martha Newton Berry on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	DAVID RASH on Methodist Mitosis 2.0: New Tho…
	Eileen Thrift on Retired Clergy and The Ghost o…

	Martha Newton Berry on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	Jay Smith Westfall on Why Your Pastor Isn’t Ta…
	DAVID RASH on Methodist Mitosis 2.0: New Tho…
	Eileen Thrift on Retired Clergy and The Ghost o…

NOTE: This Collection of Links will go Dormant in favor a New Compendium covering time times following GC2019. Thanks for checking in. Please bookmark the new link. This document will stay here as an archive.

Recent Additions

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

Critique and Analysis of Way Forward Plans

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

October 2018 Judicial Council Rulings

Petitions Submitted to General Conference 2019

Daily Christian Advocate: 2019 Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Volume 1: Delegate Handbook, Reports, and Petitions. English Version (Added 11-6-2018)

Key Issue: Should a Gracious Exit be Approved as part of the Way Forward?

Key Issue: Will Outside Petitions Be Allowed at GC2019?

May 2018 Council of Bishops Recommendations: News and Views

Official Way Forward Resources

The Commission’s Facebook Page and Twitter Feed

Books

Online Interpretive Resources

Others

Global & Multi-Cultural Perspectives

Legislative Sketches for General Conference 2019

An “Option One” Accountability Plan (COWF Model One)

Concerned Alaskans’ Local Option (COWF Model Two)

Hybrid Way Forward Legislation Version 2.2(COWF Model Three)

Movements and Caucuses

The Renewal and Reform Coalition

Older Legislative Proposals (for General Conference 2016)

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