Welcome to this collection of links from various sources related to developments in the Global Methodist Church. Inclusion of content is not an endorsement. GMC Links is not an official news organ of the GMC.
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“Global Methodist Church General Conference Reflections with Paul Lawler” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. Livestream with Paul Lawler. (Added 9-30-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Facebook). “I’m checking in with disaster response people in the GMC in affected areas. It sounds like right now is a bit early for nonprofessionals to be flooding in. But there is some infrastructure for aid being built out. I’ll try to make this a resource post for those who want to be collecting goods and making donations.” See also interview with Christopher Goss of Mosiac Church and Rand Jenkins of the One Mission Network. (Added 9-30-2024)
Post by Lonnie Brooks via Facebook. “You see, one of the most condemnatory things that us United Methodists were saying about the GMC was, “Look! Almost all the churches that have withdrawn from the UMC to become part of the GMC are predominantly white and English speaking, and that proves that the GMC is racist. Moreover, since all the bad things are intersectional, it stands to reason the GMC is also sexist, homophobic, and full of bigots.” Then, since the GMC has decided to elect its bishops at General Conference, rather than at jurisdictional conferences, which the GMC has wisely rejected altogether, it held episcopal elections in San Jose, choosing six new bishops to join the three legacy bishop who transferred into the GMC from the UMC and have retained their episcopal status.” (Added 9-30-2024)
“Jerry Kulah” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness. An interview with key leader in Liberia on the topic of discipleship. (Added 9-30-2024)
[Updated with PDF] “New denomination forms amid splintering: What it means for the future of Methodism” by Liam Adams via The Tennessean. “The more conservative Global Methodist Church holds inaugural legislative assembly following exodus of thousands of churches out of UMC.” (Added 9-30-2024)
“Man hiding inside Frisco church ceiling arrested after running away from police” by Ben Sawyers via WFAA. “Police say previous records showed Keith was known to carry a weapon. While officers waited for backup, Keith ran from the car into First Frisco Global Methodist Church at 7659 Preston Road, FPD says. That church is connected to Friends in Christ Preschool, which was placed on lockdown, police say. According to FPD, officers determined Keith was in a separate, isolated building, so children were able to be released. WFAA captured footage of administrators escorting children out as parents came to pick them up.” (Added 9-30-2024)
“Global Methodists Convene” by Mark Tooley via Juicy Ecumenism. Link to an article in The Dispatch. (Added 9-30-2024)
“What I Saw at Another General Conference” by Joe DiPaolo via PeopleNeedJesus.org. Comparing Charlotte and San Jose: “They are two very different visions indeed, likely to reach very different groups of people in North America and around the globe. May each be blessed in all they do that is in accordance with God’s will. But I wonder: how much grief and pain might have been avoided if both sides had been released to do so years – or even decades – earlier.” (Added 9-30-2024)
“Friday Live Stream – “What Exactly Happened at the Convening Conference?” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Anthony McPhail interviewed. (Added 9-30-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb via Facebook. “Of everything we did in Costa Rica this is what will determine the future of the Global Methodist Church. If we will continue to seek God with all our heart, desire the holiness of God and allow our lives to be transformed, we will then be a people who God can truly use to take the light and love of Jesus Christ to a desperate world.” (Added 9-30-2024)
Post by Clayton Lassiter via Facebook. “I can say that I am proud to have been able to witness it. We went through an exodus and into a new era of Methodism. It’s a good beginning. I think Chris Ritter said it best. ‘As the “transitional” season wanes, the real test of the Global Methodist Church has commenced. But it is so very refreshing to have a General Conference from which to launch rather than to heal. As John Maxwell has said, ‘You never have to recover from a good beginning.'” (Added 9-30-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church and the Unleashing of Latent DNA” by Paul Lawler via Medium. “The late Dr. William Abraham passed from this life into glory before seeing the birth of the Global Methodist Church, yet while he walked on this earth, he believed the day would come when a reset of Methodism would come forth. Dr. Abraham once said, “When Methodism relaunches in a new form, a wave of latent DNA will be unleashed, deeply affecting generations to come.” After serving as a delegate to the 2024 GMC General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, I am convinced Dr. Abraham’s observation was prophetic.” (Added 9-30-2024)
“GMC of SC Responding in Relief to Hurricane Helene” via South Carolina Conference. “I am reminded that South Carolina Global Methodists are an incredibly resilient people. We are a determined set of Christ-followers who persevere for God’s purposes, and that must include how we assist those who are hurting from natural disasters. I want to challenge you to use that resilience to make your church a mission outpost amid Hurricane Helene damage.” (Added 9-30-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. “My heart is full. For many months I have been praying for a Holy Spirit-led General Conference. My prayers were answered beyond all expectation. We trusted the Holy Spirit. We trusted each other. It was Christian conferencing as a means of grace. Our time at the Global Methodist General Conference was holy conferencing the way it was meant to be. The delegates were focused on God’s mission. Disagreements were respectful. Logistical glitches (only a few) were accepted with grace. Diversity was apparent. We are global…” (Added 9-29-2024)
Posts by Leah Hidde-Gregory via Facebook. A First, Second, Third and Fourth post reflecting upon the General Conference at which she was elected a GMC bishop. (Added 9-30-2024)
“A New Methodist Denomination Emerges” by Mark Tooley via The Dispatch. “The GMC’s creation in 2022 resulted from the schism of what was once America’s third largest religious body, the United Methodist Church. More than 7,900 congregations, with their property, have exited the denomination so far under a temporary process that officially ended in 2023, although several local regions allowed more exits this year (7,658 left by 2023, and 274 exited this year).” (Added 9-29-2024)
“Well done, Lausanne! Reflections on the full week of Lausanne 4” by Timothy Tennent. “I think many of us recognize that there were several cringe worthy moments when theological rigor and even historical accuracy were lacking in the content of several of the main presenters at Lausanne 4. But, there was also some slippage in basic missiology as well.” (Added 9-29-2024)
“General Conference Final Recap” via GMC (Constant Contact PDF). An e-mail with election information and other pertinent information. Includes a warning that the music on the summary video is under copyright and may mess up your livestream if you show it in worship. (Added 9-28-2024)
Post via Ibrahim Zuppai via Facebook. Quotes Nicolas Munongo: “This proves we are truly a family. Yesterday I was answering a question from the press on what the election of two African bishops represents. A satisfaction, a consideration, and a proof of love. With less that 10% of the African delegates, without any delegation from Nigeria, Bishop John Pena and Bishop Kimba were elected. Wow! Overall, this election puts an end to the malicious statements that the GMC is Neo-colonialism. Tell them out loud that the GMC is truly a family! There is room for everyone! Where there is the Spirit of God, there is love. I love you my Brothers and Sisters!” (Added 9-28-2024)
Tweet by Andy Miller III: “We had the honor of attending the @GlobalMChurch Convening General Conference in Costa Rica. Some of the notable highlights: approving the constitution, developing a healthy plan for the episcopacy, refining educational requirements, and approving the mission statement.” (Added 9-28-2024)
“Bennet Faust Amendment” via Facebook. Video of a lighthearted moment at General Conference. (Added 9-28-2024)
Post by Ibrahim Zuppai via Facebook. “PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT: The newly elected Bishop of the Global Methodist Church His lordship Rev. Dr. John Pena Auta and Bishop emeritus Johnwesley Yohanna will be received officially on Monday 30th September, 2024 by 11:00am at Yola International Airport in a colorful motorcade celebration. Members of the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria are advised to come out enmase in uniforms and welcome the Bishops back to the country after the successful completion of the convening General Conference of GMC in San Jose, the republic of Costa Rica. God bless you as you prepare toward the historic day.” (Added 9-28-2024)
Post by Matt Reynolds via Facebook. [photo] “Our team arrived home safely late last night. It’s going to take some time to reflect on all that we experienced in the past week. Miracle after miracle. For now I will simply say: I’ve never been more excited for how the Lord is moving among Methodists. And we’ve only just begun.” (Added 9-28-2024)
“Surprises at General Conference” by David Watson via Substack. “Over the course of the week, the proceedings of the Convening Conference began to change my expectations. The goal of this gathering was to build up Christ’s church, and that is what we did. Sometimes I would see the old habits of political maneuvering rise up again. I didn’t like it. Neither did the assembled body. We wanted to trust each other, and, by and large, we did. But that was a choice, an act of will. We had to choose to trust, even when our malformed instincts told us not to do so.” (Added 9-28-2024)
Post by Luther Oconer via Facebook. “There was a time, many years ago, when I nearly gave up on Methodism. But through it all, I clung to the hope that God was not yet done with this movement. I am deeply grateful for its early history and the teachings of Wesley, which rekindled my love for the people called Methodists. Though I caught glimpses of old unhealthy habits during the seven-day conference, I also witnessed something far greater—a conscious, collective effort by many to repent and turn away from the ways of the past. This repentance was palpable in the prayers and tears of those who rushed to the altar during powerful moments orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, the one who sanctifies. This moment, this new Wesleyan movement, is the fruit of steadfast prayers—offered both. (Added 9-28-2024)
“Convening General Conference, Days 6 & 7: Scriptural Holiness” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. “It was better than any of us knew it could be.” (Added 9-28-2024)
Post by Brad McKenzie via Facebook. “To say I am thankful to have been present at this historical Convening General Conference of the Global Methodist Church would be an understatement. One of the most impactful and important weeks of my pastoral life.” (Added 9-27-2024)
Post by Tim Turner via Facebook. “My heart is full. I feel confident that The Global Methodist Church is off to an excellent start. Yesterday, we came to a marvelous mission statement: “The Global Methodist Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ and spread Scriptural holiness across the globe.” We also consecrated 6 new part-time bishops, which will greatly assist the world-wide work of equipping the Church for the work of ministry. I’m especially grateful for the call of God on my friend, colleague, and brother in Christ, Bishop Kenneth Levingston. Our next General Conference will be in 2026 in Africa. How wonderful that our first two Conferences are NOT in the United States! We are TRULY a global movement.” (Added 9-27-2024)
Post by John Campbell via Facebook. “My post from a few days ago was about the thousands of UMC churches that disaffiliated but did not join the GMC. I asked that you watch what was happening at our Convening Conference. I have lots of reasons why I love this new spiritual movement, but at the Episcopal consecration Bishop Webb reframed my ask for me. He told us that we have to trust God. In many circumstances and many ways, we must trust God. I realized I was asking people to watch and trust the GMC. I have never heard Bishop Webb preach before, but he reached me several times this week so I’ll heed his advice. I’ll trust God and I’ll ask those disaffiliated congregations to do so as well. The GMC is worth a look if you want to be a part of a tremendous Wesleyan movement. Take a look but trust God to guide you.” (Added 9-27-2024)
Post by Carolyn Moore via Facebook. “…And that is my experience of this convening conference of the Global Methodist Church as it comes to a close or more accurately, ushers in a beginning. I am undone. Gratefully, gloriously undone. Not just “good tired” but emptied and swept away. It may take a minute to find my feet again, but when I do I will walk back down this mountain with this beautiful congregation called the GMC and together we will get to work.” (Added 9-27-2024)
“So The World Will Know 9/26” via YouTube. The recording of the events of the final day of General Conference. (Added 9-26-2024)
“Global Methodist Church | Convening Conference 2024” by GMC (YouTube). A 3-minute highlight video of the convening General Conference. (Added 9-26-2024)
Tweet String by William Lucas: The Global Methodist General Conference adopted a significantly improved mission statement today that reflects our biblical and historical roots. “The Global Methodist Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ and spread scriptural holiness across the globe.” There is also an accompanying vision statement now. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, the [GMC] envisions multiplying disciples of Jesus Christ throughout the earth who flourish in scriptural holiness as we worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly. (Added 9-26-2024)
Post by Jessica LaGrone (Facebook). “Sharing this beautiful post from my best friend, seminary roommate, and roommate here at General Conference. It will be TLDR for many, but if you want to know how it feels to be a clergywoman in this new movement (or those who long for gifted women to lead and preach equally alongside gifted male leaders), just read these words: I am home. ORIGINAL POST. (Added 9-26-2024)
“Global Methodists Find Joy in Costa Rica” by Dan Silliman via Christianity Today. Johnwesley Yohanna, a bishop from Nigeria, agreed. “There is love and joy, and we praise God and are free,” he said. “There is no misbehaving, no fighting, no shouting.” PDF (Added 9-26-2024)
Post by Good News (Facebook). From Christianity Today’ reporting from Costa Rica this morning:
BEHIND THE STORY. From news editor Daniel Silliman: If you’ve ever been in a large group that can’t decide where to go for dinner, you know one of the deep frustrations of democracy. Decision-making processes can be so shambolic that you start to call for a dictator: “Someone just decide.”
But if a deliberative body is run a little better than that and there’s some structure, plus some trust and patience, people can actually come together, work through a process, and make really complicated decisions. It’s kind of a miracle. Reporting on the Global Methodist Church’s convening General Conference in Costa Rica this week, one of my favorite moments was watching a delegate withdraw a second, so that someone else could withdraw an amendment to an amendment, so that someone could withdraw another second, so that someone could withdraw another second, so that someone could withdraw the original amendment. More than 300 delegates from 33 different countries worked together. It was a feat of parliamentary procedure. A testament to goodwill and democracy. And then the church passed a constitution. I’ve never been in a room where people passed a constitution before. The weight of it inspired a little awe.” (Added 9-26-2024)
Post by Ibrahim Zuppai via Facebook. “Our people were deceived by Ande Ikimun Emmanuel from the wake of church crisis that His lordship Bishop Johnwesley Yohanna was planning to be a life bishop of UMCN when he was in UMC and even lied he has no intention to handover at GMC. Today, history is made his lordship Bishop Johnwesley Yohanna has fulfilled his promise that he’ll not go beyond his tenure as bishop…” (Added 9-26-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Day Seven Overview. (Added 9-26-2024)
Overheard: Bishops will be consecrated in a 3:30 pm worship service. (Added 9-26-2024)
Post by Eglise Méthodiste Globale en RD Congo (Facebook). Celebrating the episcopal elections in the GMC. It is highly significant that an African was the first elected bishop in the history of the Global Methodist Church. This post also included election order and totals. (Added 9-26-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Picture of all the newly elected bishops together. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #6: Kenneth Levinston elected. Elections complete! (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #5: No election. Jay Therrell withdraws. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #4: No election. David Banks withdraws. Three candidates remain: Kenneth Levingston, Jay Therrell, and Virgilio Olonan.(Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: All but four candidates were elected or withdrew moving into ballot #4. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #3: Jeff Greenway elected (Added 9-25-2025)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #2: John Pena Auta of Nigeria elected. (Added 9-25-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. (Photos) “We have new interim bishops! The Convening General Conference of the Global Methodist Church has elected Kimba Evariste, Leah Hidde-Gregory, and Carolyn Moore to the role of interim bishop for a two year term beginning in November 2024 and concluding at General Conference in 2026. Praise the Lord in this historic moment.” (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Episcopal Ballot #1: Three elections! Kimba Evariste, Carolyn Moore, and Leah Hidde-Gregory elected. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: A David Watson amendment was approved that would forbid officers and staff of institutions of higher education from voting membership in the commission that approves schools for the GMC. There is an advisory group that does include trustees and staff of seminaries and theology schools. This was to correct a United Methodist University Senate practice wherein the authorizing body was heavily staffed by the institutions it regulates. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: A Celebration of Keith Boyette’s leadership was held to round off the morning activities at the convening General Conference. (Added 9-25-2024)
Overheard: Buyissle Steward Mqobongo from South Africa has removed his name from the pool of episcopal nominees. This leaves 21 remaining candidates. Balloting will be begin after lunch, 1:15 pm local time. (Added 9-25-2024)
Post by John Thomas (Facebook). An image of a large plaque presented to the GMC by the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica, the GMC’s first official ecumenical partner. (Added 9-25-2024)
Post via North Alabama Conference (Facebook). Link to a Day Five summary offered by Toby Chastain. (Added 9-25-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). List of the 22 candidates for the six interim bishop slots to be filled by the convening General Conference. (Added 9-25-2024)
“So The World Will Know 9/24” by GMC via YouTube. Great sermon by Luther Oconer followed by plenary sessions on 9-24-2024. (Added 9-25-2024)
Update: The Pattison Amendment to Petition 114 was approved 231 to 99. The amended petition was approved by an overwhelming margin. This action accepts all 16 previous candidates for interim bishop and allows those conference delegations that have not done so to exercise that option. (Added 9-24-2024)
Tweet by Beth Ann Cook: “Delegates just took great care to support Cross Racial pastors and affirm Cross Racial appointments. By a large margin. #sotheworldwillknow @GlobalMChurch” (Added 9-24-2024)
Daily Journal | September 24, 2024 via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Legislation presented to delegates for voting. (Added 9-24-2024)
Overview: The General Conference approved Petition 29 (Par. 504), a new process for electing bishops in 2026 and beyond. The final vote was 310 to 18. (Added 9-24-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Day Five overview. (Added 9-24-2024)
Overheard: The constitution for the Global Methodist Church has been approved. (Added 9-24-2024)
“Convening General Conference, Day Four: The Thorny Issue of 2024 Episcopal Elections” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. The road toward a fair and free process for electing transitional bishops. (Added 9-24-2024)
Overheard: Hudson Wanck, age 13, was recognized by Bishop Jones as the youngest page at General Conference. (Added 9-23-2024)
Overheard: Elected to the Discipleship, Doctrine, and Just Ministry Commission: Gabriella Kopas, Luther Oconer, David Watson, Jason Vickers, and Suzanne Nicholson were elected as clergy. Evelyn Ann Akumu, Audi Daniel Bulus, Kathy Rohrs, and Walter Warriner were elected as laity. (Added 9-23-2024)
Overheard: Elected to the Connectional Council: Clergy elected were Daniel Topalski, Jessica LaGrone, Jeff Greenway, and Henriette Okele. Laity elected were Cara Nicklas, Gene Floore, and Asaba Chin Ali. (Added 9-23-2024)
Overheard: Elected to the Conferences Commission: Clark Atkins, Wilton Thomas Odongo, Keihwan Ryoo, Virgilio Olonan, Elizabeth Fulmer Sullivan, & Brad DeHaven. (Added 9-23-2024)
Overheard: Zawdie Abiade, Rurel Ausley, Jimmy Towson and Steven Bell were elected as clergy members of the Council on Appeals. Laity elected were Ron Enns, Gideon Salatan, and Vicky Johnson. (Added 9-23-2024)
“GMC Convening Conference Interview – Joe DiPaolo” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Rev. DiPaolo is a theologian and historian who is present in San Jose to get a firsthand experience of what the Lord is raising up in the Global Methodists. He has insights to share. Spend some time with him!” (Added 9-23-2024)
Nominee Biographies via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Spreadsheet containing biographies of those nominated to General Committees and Commissions. See also Nominations List. (Added 9-23-2024)
“9/23 Livestream Link” via GMC (YouTube). Livestream link for the Monday morning plenary session of General Conference. (Added 9-23-2024)
“Episcopacy and Superintendency Legislative Committee” via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Videos of the Episcopacy and Superintendency Legislative Committee and Subcommittees. See also “Constitution Committee,” “Conferences Committee,” “Judicial Administration Committee,” “Ministry and Local Church Committee,” “Courtesies,” “Reference,” “Journal,” “Credentials,” “Connectional Organization,” and “Financial Administration.”
Daily Journals via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. “Daily Journal | 9-22-2024” and “Daily Journal | 9-22-2024 Evening” Legislative and informational reports distributed to delegates of the General Conference. (Added 9-23-2024)
“Watch Party for the GMC Convening Conference – Monday Morning” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). (Added 9-23-2024)
“Legislative Committees and Hands-On Ministry Mark a Fruitful Second Day at the Global Methodist Church Convening General Conference” via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. A print recap of the actions of the General Conference on September 21. (Added 9-23-2024)
“Day Four Overview” via GMC (Facebook). Preview of Monday’s work/agenda. (Added 9-23-2024)
“Convening General Conference, Day Three: Holy Love” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.org. A summary of Day 3 of General Conference, with an emphasis on an unusual move of the Holy Spirit during Sunday worship. (Added 9-23-2024)
“Day 3 of the Convening Conference of the Global Methodist Church” via Plainspoken (YouTube). “This will be a live stream summary report from TJ and me after watching this morning’s proceedings, talking to some folks, and reading some materials. We will do our best to help everyone stay apprised of what has transpired thus far. Many interesting and encouraging things!” (Added 9-22-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Recap video of Sunday morning Holy Communion. (Added 9-22-2024)
Post by Sterling Allen (Facebook). GC Worship Leader: “I walked in my hotel room and began weeping again, and I’m weeping as I type this because I was so amazed by what happened. This must be what the people at Pentecost felt. I’m so glad Jennifer Allen and Hannah Grace were there to experience it.” (Added 9-22-2024)
Post via Good News (Facebook). [GMC Video Link] “This will give you a little taste of our experience at the Colegio Metodista – Oficial in San Jose, Costa Rica. The warmth of the students and our hosts was filled with grace and love. We are so thankful for an unforgettable experience together.” (Added 9-22-2024)
“Convening General Conference, Day Two: Episcopacy and Democracy” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. A Day Two Summary of the convening General Conference in Costa Rica with an emphasis on the work of the Episcopacy & Superintendency Legislative Committee. (Added 9-22-2024)
“So the World will Know 2024- Day 1 Afternoon Plenary” by GMC (YouTube). Video of opening day afternoon organizational session. (Added 9-22-2024)
“Great Joy Marks First Day of Global Methodist Church’s Convening General Conference” via GMC (Constant Contact PDF). The first in a series of official daily recaps. (Added 9-21-2024)
Overheard: The Episcopacy & Superintendency Legislative Committee is currently debating whether to move the General Episcopacy or the Hybrid Plan forward. Both plans were perfected in two separate and randomly populated sub-committees. A motion to reject the Hybrid (Florida) Plan was approved 57 for, 9 against, 1 abstention. This means the General Episcopacy (TLC) Plan will move forward. (Added 9-21-2024)
“So the World will Know 2024- Methodist School Worship Service” via GMC (YouTube). The September 20 Plenary Worship Service of the convening General Conference, help off site at a Methodist School with Carolyn Moore preaching. (Added 9-21-2024)
“Global Methodist Convening Conference – Day 1 Report” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “This is a summary report on the proceedings of the first day of the Convening General Conference of the Global Methodist Church. I watched most of the day’s proceedings with TJ and my brother, Daniel. It was a good day. I can’t capture all of this, but this will give you a sense of what it is like over there and what work and worship was done this first day.” (Added 9-21-2024)
Videos via North Georgia GMC (Facebook). “Update from the Conference Floor” and “The Miraculous Work of the Holy Spirit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.” (Added 9-21-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Praise the Lord! Day 2 of General Conference is underway with committee sessions. These are not live streamed, however, we invite you to enjoy highlights from Day 1 including our Concert of Prayer right here: https://www.youtube.com/live/C5uQIgrT9UY…” (Added 9-21-2024)
“Day One Video Recap” via GMC (Facebook). “The people, the landscape, the presence of the Holy Spirit — For us, San José is holy ground! And these are the days for which we have been praying. We’re doing our best to capture the spirit and heart of what’s happening here — So the World Will Know!” (Added 9-21-2024)
Overheard: Today is comprised completely of legislative committee work. Delegates are divided up to sort through and amend the legislation submitted to General Conference. (Added 9-21-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). “Friends, we’d like to offer this live stream update as we wind down Day 1 of our Convening General Conference. Thank you all for tuning in and sharing your feedback!
We’re grateful to report that Keith Boyette is doing well—he bounced back with his usual grace and humor. We’re also celebrating a huge victory! We are thrilled that all 22 of our African delegates who were unable to join us virtually had their voices heard and accounted for in the room.
We know there were some technical glitches with the live stream, and we’re working hard to resolve them. Between the rain and international tech issues, we appreciate your grace and patience as we do our best! Our media teams are working hard to bring you each event in real time.
We know the enemy is at work trying to hinder this moment, but we refuse to let him win. The Holy Spirit is powerfully present here, and we’re excited to see what God will continue to do! Rest well.” (Added 9-21-2024)
Post via Greater Northwest WCA (Facebook). [photo] Signing of a covenant between The Global Methodist Church and the Evangelical Church of Costa Rica. (Added 9-21-2024)
“Convening General Conference, Day 1: Tears of a Different Sort” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. “The few votes we took today showed a church at peace with itself and ready to follow its leaders. Bishops were affirmed. Rules were passed without debate (a far cry from 2016 when debates over a single rule change took days.) The work of the Transitional Leadership Council was received with gratitude. Spontaneous prayer and praise broke out in lobbies and on buses. It feels such a blessing to be a Global Methodist.” (Added 9-21-2024)
Overheard: Keith Boyette suffered a fall from the back of the platform as preparations were being made for the signing of the covenant between the GMC and the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica. After a time of prayer and singing in the house while medical attention was given, Bishop Jones announced that Keith has a wound to his head, but is going to be okay. Keith came before the body a little before 3pm and was smiling and in good spirits. He joked that someone had to test the emergency services provided by the General Conference. A doctor, ER nurse, and other medical personnel attended to him. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Petition 112 (p,. 132) Resolution moved, Adopting a Covenant Agreement between the GMC and the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica. This will be the first official ecumenical relationship of the GMC with another church body. For: 298, Against: 7, Abstain: 1. Bishop Palomo of the EMCCR greeted the body. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: A motion to approve the TLC Transitional Book of Doctrines and Disciples, along with the Judicial Processes, was moved by Jessica LaGrone of the Trinity Conference. This makes the Book of Doctrines and Discipline the official rules of the church, to be amended by the following actions of this General Conference. For: 304, Against: 4, Abstain: 1. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Motions to put previously deferred petitions before the body, referring them to the proper legislative committee: Burt Palmer moved Petition #152 (Par. 412, granting limited sacramental authority to Supply Pastors under appointment). Vote: 282 for to 34 against, with 2 abstentions. Referred to Committee on the Local Church. | Cory Oliver from North Carolina Conference moved Petition 228 (Par. 420, Interim Ministers) be referred to the Committee on the Local Church. Vote: 245 for, 64 against, 1 abstention. (Added 8-20-2024)
Overheard: Bishops Jones and Webb were officially elected as bishops of the Global Methodist Church, 297 to 1. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Tom Lambrecht was unanimously elected as General Conference Secretary. Lamar Oliver was unanimously elected assistant secretary. (Added 9-20-2024)
Post by Ande Emmanuel via Facebook. Shares a letter from UM Bishop Schol with multiple allegations against Bishop Yohanna and the GMC in Nigeria. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: After a brief break, the Opening Plenary Session is about to begin with organizational work for the operations of the General Conference. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Bishops Jones, Yohanna, and Webb offer an episcopal exhortation as the General Conference opens. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Maxie Dunnam, age 90, leads the convening General Conference in prayer via video. He suffered a fall recently and was unable to travel to Costa Rica. (Added 9-20-2024)
Overheard: Stirring worship and a season of prayer in the Korean Tongsung Kido [Pray aloud together] style begin the convening General Conference of the GMC. Not a dry eye in the house as delegates sang “And Can It Be” and “How Great Thou Art.” (Added 9-20-2024)
“So the World Will Know Livestream” via YouTube. The watch link for General Conference. See also the Plainspoken Watch Party. (Added 9-20-2024)
Post by David Wehrle via Facebook. “While New Room and Methodism are awakening movements and not denominations, nor do they belong to any denomination, here are the people of New Room facing South, extending hands, reading prophecy, praying and pronouncing blessing over the awakening movement that is the Global Methodist Church, holding its convening general conference in Costa Rica.” (Added 9-20-2024)
“Possibilities and Pitfalls in San Jose” by David Watson via Substack. “The frustrations traditionalists felt over progressive theological education could result in an under-emphasis on theological education in the GMC. Frustrations over bishops could result in an ineffective episcopacy. Frustrations over a large bureaucracy in our former denomination could result in an inadequate infrastructure in our new one. None of these will be healthy for us in the long run.” (Added 9-19-2024)
“Building Bridges: Global Connections in Methodism” by Keith Sweat. “The location of our Convening Conference is San Jose. Geographically, Costa Rica is a land bridge between North and South. I pray the events there will open a bridge for the Church of North and South. For too long, my stream of Methodism has ben cut off from Latin America.” (Added 9-19-2024)
“The Mere Methodism Conference | May 2025 | Washington D.C.” via The John Wesley Institute. “I’m excited to tell you that Mere Methodism will happen again in 2025. We had a wonderful gathering for the first conference in March in Washington, DC as leading Wesleyan thinkers and pastors spoke to us, diving into the riches of our tradition. Details about the 2025 event are still in the works, but I’m happy to tell you that it will be held here in the nation’s capitol in May.” (Added 9-19-2024)
Post by GMC (Facebook). [photo] “This morning, the Transitional Leadership Council gathered and spent powerful moments not only meeting but also in prayer—lifting each other, the upcoming conference, and the entire church before God. Each prayed in their native language, opening their hearts and trusting in the Spirit’s guidance. It was a beautiful expression of unity and faith. God is here. God is moving. We can feel it. Can you?” See also Post about the Check-in Process. (Added 9-19-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church: Dreams and Visions for the First Days” via Asbury Seminary. A November 12-14 event on the Asbury Campus (Added 9-19-2024)
Final Petitions Report with Errata (Sept. 13) via SotheWorldWillKnow.org (PDF). This is the final English version of the Petitions report. (Added 9-19-2024)
Pre-Conference Journal (English) via SotheWorldWillKnow.org (PDF). Reports, letter of Welcome, and other delegate materials. (Added 9-19-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #18 – Petitions 105-113, 247” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing series reading through petitions to General Conference. (Added 9-19-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church Will Meet in Costa Rica. Sexuality Is Not on the Agenda.” via Religion News Service. “The estimated 350 delegates who will descend on the Costa Rica Convention Center beginning Friday will approve a rule book called the Book of Doctrines and Discipline and drop the “transitional” label from many of its documents and job titles. Delegates will also debate and vote on how to govern and structure the denomination’s 36 geographic regions, called conferences.” (Added 9-19-2024)
“We’re Going to Costa Rica, Ya’ll!” via Firebrand Podcast. David Watson and Maggie Ulmer discuss General Conference. (Added 9-19-2024)
“Christianity Today and Young, Restless Wesleyans” via Holy Joys. “We are honored to be featured in Christianity Today alongside other Wesleyan groups who are working to recover classical Methodist theology (and, with it, classic Christianity).” (Added 9-18-2024)
Post by Keith Sweat via Facebook. “The World Methodist Council (WMC) claims to represent 80 member churches. That is more than a bit disingenuous. At least 36 of these churches are UMC. They list each national or regional church separately from Albania UMC to Zimbabwe UMC. The headquarters is the UMC facility at Lake Junalaska. The president is a UMC bishop. Of the remaining churches, six are Uniting churches which, by their nature are progressive spiritual organizations with no Methodist distinctiveness. The Uniting Church in Canada does not even require its clergy to be Christian.
Denominations with a distinct Wesleyan/Methodist heritage who are not members include the Salvation Army, dozens of small conservative denominations, and at the insistence of the UMC who always gets their way with the Council, the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 9-18-2024)
“A Firm Foundation: Three Hopes for the Global Methodist Convening Conference 2024” by David Donnan. Have Fun, Build Trust, Honor God. (Added 9-19-2024)
“Wesleyan Theological Revival?” by Mark Tooley via Juicy Ecumenism. “Besides JWI and Seedbed, the CT article also cites More to the Story, the Francis Asbury Society, the Fundamental Wesleyan Society, Firebrand Magazine, and Holy Joys as other examples of groups offering Wesleyan theological formation. And of course, it mentions Wesleyan schools such as Asbury Seminary, United Seminary and Wesley Biblical Seminary, all of which are growing.” (Added 9-19-2024)
Post by Absalom Nuhu Kodei via Facebook. [Document image] “Rev. Salama Hassan has stepped down from contesting the Bishop seat in GMC to rally his support for John pena Auta. Leaders who don’t believe in do or die affairs.” (Added 9-19-2024)
[updated] Posts via Social Media. “Leaving for Costa Rica” posts abound. Sterling Allen, John Beyers, Nate Cravillion, Beth Ann Cook, Rob Price, Scott Pattison, Steven Taylor, BS Mqobongo, Jeff Greenway. Luther Oconer. (Added 9-17-2024)
“I resigned after church legalized LGBTQ – Bishop Yohanna” by Femi Bolaji via Vanguard. “The Bishop does not have authority over church’s properties in the UMCN. The Board of Trustees and the Annual Conferences are the ones who have authority over those. However, there is still a minority group of the UMC members in Nigeria who feel they want to remain in the church after it recognized LGBTQ, while the majority left for GMC…” (Added 9-18-2024)
“Ground broken at rural Gladbrook’s Chapel Church four years after devastating fire” by Sue Koster via Times-Republican (IA). “In 2023, they joined the Global Methodist Church denomination, and their name is now simply Chapel Church. Ever since the church was burned to the ground by a quick-burning fire back in October of 2020, the congregation has been meeting in the Green Mountain Community building. Ultimately, a decision was made to rebuild the church at the original site.” (Added 9-18-2024)
“Parting Words” by Keith Boyette via GMC. “I have been personally blessed by the leadership of Bishops Mark Webb, Scott Jones, and, more recently, Johnwesley Yohanna, and the encouragement of Bishop Emeriti Young Jin Cho, Robert Hayes, Mike Lowry, and Ed Williamson. They will continue to provide God-empowered episcopal leadership to the church. If the convening General Conference chooses to elect additional persons to the episcopacy, they will join these exceptional leaders. The spiritual vitality of our movement will be in good hands.” (Added 9-18-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #17 – Petitions 241-242” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. Jeffrey talks about the petitions he wrote that were deferred until 2026. (Added 9-18-2024)
“7 Reasons Why the GMC Needs to Pump the Brakes on Bishops” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “The Convening Conference of the Global Methodist Church is coming together this Friday to begin several important conversations, one of which being whether or not to immediately elect and mobilize new bishops. I think this is premature and potentially harmful, for reasons I outline in this segment.” (Added 9-18-2024)
“Wheels Up!” by Chris Ritter via Team Caffeine (e-mail). Thoughts on the work of the Episcopacy & Superintendency Legislative Committee thus far, including various suggested edits to the TLC legislation. (Added 9-17-2024)
Overheard: Per Beth Ann Cook: “This will be the location where services from Costa Rica will be live streaming:” (Added 9-17-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. A suggested musical playlist for General Conference. (Added 9-17-2024)
“‘Wesley Is Fire Now’ and Evangelicals Are Being Strangely Warmed” by Clayton Sidenbender via Christianity Today. “Two decades after New Calvinism, some young Christians are turning to Methodist history for theological sustenance.” PDF or Subscribe to CT. (Added 9-17-2024)
Video Post via New Journey GMC (Starksville, MS). Pastor Bob Rambo shares the results a vote to buy land for the construction of a new church building. (Added 9-17-2024)
“The Methodist Fabric of Connection – Preparing for General Conference” via MidSouth GMC (YouTube). “As we approach the 2024 Convening General Conference, we are asking the question… What does it mean to be connected? The various conference gatherings can seem far removed from our daily lives in the local church though the reality of Methodist connection is that we are in mission together and what happens at each level across the Global Methodist Church is meant for making us stronger in holiness and stronger in mission.” See also Guidemap. (Added 9-17-2024)
“Bishops, Generals, and Evangelical Totalitarianism” by Andy Miller III via Firebrand Magazine. “As the GMC anticipates its Convening General Conference, I hope it can learn from the example of the [Salvation] Army, its ecclesial cousin. I don’t believe the GMC is in danger of becoming merely a charitable organization, but its mission could be hindered if too much authority is given to one office. Separated powers can prevent one leader from grasping more power than is healthy. (Added 9-17-2024)
“Consecration Before Crossing: The Most Crucial Work at the Launch of the Global Methodist Church” by Matt Reynolds via Firebrand Magazine. “It’s only those with consecrated hearts who will trust God enough, like the Israelites in Joshua 3, to step into a flooded Jordan out of obedience, believing God will do the miracle we cannot manufacture in our own strength. In the GMC, and in the larger church, now is a time to seek holiness and purity of heart. Consecration always comes before crossing.” (Added 9-17-2024)
“San Jose and the Shore Birds: Ready for the GMC to take flight?” by Scott Field via WCA. “This week as delegates and observers make their way to San Jose and others of us are awaiting the outcomes of the GMC Convening Conference, let’s all face into the wind of the Holy Spirit by ‘withdrawing to a lonely place’ to pray.” (Added 9-17-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #16 – Petition 245 on Capping Salaries” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing series reading through petitions to General Conference. (Added 9-17-2024)
“All Religions Are Different Paths… But to Where?” by David Watson via Substack. “My point here isn’t to throw shade on the Pope. He does, however, seem often to make confusing comments. This is one such occasion. We can respect the innate human dignity of people of other faiths without participating in the illusion that all faiths lead to God.” (Added 9-16-2024)
“My Hopes for a New Church” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Update of a January 2020 list of hopes & dreams for a new Methodismm re-posted for the eve of General Conference. (Added 9-16-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). “Why does the Global Methodist Church hold a General Conference? It’s more than just a gathering—it’s where we unite as a global body to pray, worship, and discern the future of our church. The General Conference allows us to come together to make key decisions, celebrate our shared faith, and seek God’s guidance for the road ahead. It’s a time to reflect on our mission and strengthen our connection as a community of believers.” (Added 9-16-2024)
Overheard: Per Lamar Oliver, Petitions Secretary: “The last update to the petitions reports was posted this morning at sotheworldwillknow.org. Major changes include the Reference Committee’s action last week to move Petition 045 from Ministry & Local Church to Connectional Organization and assign Petitions 112 and 113 to the Plenary as they are part of the agenda for the afternoon of day one. Minor proofreading edits in all languages. No changes to the body or rationale of any petition unless there was a translation clarification. Page numbers of the petitions themselves remain the same. Errata on the last page of each language.” (Added 9-16-2024)
“The cult of kindness: Children need to be taught about Sin” by Tim DeRoche via UnHerd. “In our effort to be culturally sensitive, we’ve purged our moral conversation of concepts that occur again and again across all the wisdom traditions of our species. We’ve created an alien life form in a petri dish, and we’ve unleashed it on our children.” See also Tweet by Historian Tom Holland: “The rejection of original sin as a repressive & outmoded doctrine was the one theological innovation of the sixties that genuinely contributed to the reformation we’re currently in the midst of” (Added 9-16-2024)
“Legislative Power Exercised in the Image of Jesus” by Nate Fugate and Bob Zilhaver via Substack. Eighth article in a series on the proposed GMC constitution. (Added 9-16-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with John Beyers” by Andy Miller via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). An interview with John Beyers of the North Georgia Conference. (Added 9-16-2024)
“35 Axioms of Wesleyan Theology” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “One of the crucial tasks for the next Methodism is the recovery of (1) a clear and robust Wesleyan theology in general and (2) a clear and robust Wesleyan understanding of salvation in particular. To that end, here are thirty-five axioms of a Wesleyan understanding of salvation.” (Added 9-16-2024)
“Perspective on the Episcopacy – Bishop Scott Jones” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). This is a livestream link to an interview scheduled for 11 am Central on Monday, September 16, 2024. (Added 9-16-2024)
“Methodist Nature: Exclusive & Uncompromising” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Substack). Tenth in a series on the nature of Methodism. (Added 9-16-2024)
“Live: Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #15 – Petition 243 on Financial Transparency” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Ongoing video series reading through petitions to the General Conference. (Added 9-16-2024)
“Newnan Global Methodist Church hosts inaugural service” by Kandace Bell via Newnan Times-Herald. A new GMC church in North Georgia begins weekly worship. (Added 9-14-2024)
Post by Malaki Likondi via Facebook. [pictures] “Glory be to God. The family of Global Methodist Church Tanzania Provisional Annual Conference is growing up. 21 new church members have been baptized including a couple who were Muslims before, and decided to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The next day each member was awarded a Baptism Certificate. Thank you so much for your prayers, and continue to pray for the work of God in Tanzania.” (Added 9-14-2024)
Updated with PDF: “The Man who Made Global Methodism Possible” by Dan Silliman via Christianity Today. “Keith Boyette prepares for retirement as the denomination gathers formally for the first time.” (Added 9-13-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #14 – Financial Considerations” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing series reading through petitions to General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Bishops in the GMC: Improving the Selection Process with Chris Ritter” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). An interview about a proposed revised selection process for GMC bishops. See also linktree and audio version. (Added 9-13-2024)
Tweet by Chris Ritter. “I feel the Global Methodist Church should consecrate Keith as a bishop emeritus upon his retirement. He has certainly served as a general superintendent. #GlobalMC” Link (Added 9-13-2024)
“Conferences Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Financial Administration Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Constitution Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Ministry and Local Church Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Judicial Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. See also here. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Connectional Organization Legislative Committee Meeting | September 3, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Episcopacy Legislative Committee Meeting | September 10, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. See also September 3. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Ministry and Local Church Legislative Committee Meeting | September 10, 2024” via GMC (Vimeo). Legislative Committee Meeting via Zoom in Advance of General Conference. (Added 9-13-2024)
Episcopal Candidate Interviews via GMC (Vimeo). “Join Dianne Burnett, the Executive Director of Communications for the Global Methodist Church, as she interviews potential nominees for the office of two-year bishops.” Each nominee was asked the same three questions, and these interviews are presented unedited to provide an authentic and transparent way for all delegates to get to know the potential nominees. Watch to hear their hearts, visions, and perspectives as you prepare for the important decisions ahead.” See David Banks, Baziel Yayuba, Diana Dewitt, Stephen Martin, John Pena Auta, Angela Pleasants, Jeff Buck, John Beyers, Ryan Barnett, Salam Hassan, Rob Townsend, Kimba Evariste, Leah Hidde-Gregory, Jeff Greenway, Kenneth Levingston and Carolyn Moore. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Ritter Episcopal Election Proposal” via PDF. An alternative to Petition 29, Par. 504, which defines how bishops are elected in the GMC. (Added 9-13-2024)
“Virtual Town Hall with Potential Nominees Auta, DeWitt, Martyn and Pleasants” by Global Methodist Church via Vimeo. See also “Beyers, Moore, Townsend 9.12.24” and “Virtual Town Hall with Jeff Buck, Hassan Salama, and Baziel Yayuba” and “Virtual Town Hall with Episcopal Nominees Barnett, Evariste, Stover” (Added 9-13-2024)
Overheard: The Episcopacy and Superintendency Legislative Committee has organized via Zoom and created two sub-teams that will alternately perfect the TLC General Superintendency Plan and the Florida Hybrid Plan. The committee will debate the plans once the perfecting process is complete, realizing the alternate may be presented to the plenary General Conference as a minority report. Supporters of each plan are in both sub-committees. (Added 9-13-2024)
“An Episcopal Win-Win” by James Lambert via Facebook. “Both plans are good. Neither of them should be a deal-breaker for anyone. The most important thing is Biblical faithfulness and ministry in the spirit of Christ.” (Added 9-13-2024)
“[GMC General Conference Exclusive] O for a Heart to Praise My God” via Seedbed. “This is the GMC Convening General Conference commemorative edition of O for a Heart to Praise My God.” Delegates will receive a copy. (Added 9-12-2024)
“Providing Resources for Full Delegate Participation” via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. “…the GM Church is providing resources so delegates in Africa, who were unable to obtain visas, will be able to participate at the highest level possible in the convening General Conference. By leveraging advanced technology, these delegates will be able to interact virtually in both legislative and plenary sessions of the Conference. Delegates will be able to hear and view proceedings occurring in Costa Rica, be seen and heard by delegates in Costa Rica, fully participate in debate, and cast their votes on all matters addressed by their respective legislative committees and in plenary sessions.” (Added 9-12-2024)
“Improving the Episcopal Selection Process” by Andy Miller via More to the Story Podcast (Facebook). A live chat with Chris Ritter on a possible amendment to the TLC-endorsed Episcopacy Plan. (Added 9-12-2024)
“Twelve-day Prayer Guide” via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Sign up to pray during a 12-day vigil for General Conference. (Added 9-12-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Greg Stover” by Andy Miller via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). Continuing series featuring candidates for interim bishop in the GMC. (Added 9-12-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #13 – Petitions 100-104” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing daily series reading through the petitions to General Conference. (Added 9-12-2024)
“Redeeming the Liminal” by Gary Turner via Omnia Methodist. “Because the [interim ministry] legislation was not assigned to a committee, it must receive a two-thirds vote of the plenary session of the CGC to be considered. Spirit Led Interim Ministers believes this ministry to be so essential that we have decided to sponsor a table on the first day of the conference at great expense. We are also translating the legislation into the approved languages of the General Conference.” (Added 9-11-2024)
“Know Before You Go” via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Precautions and travel information for those soon departing for Costa Rica. (Added 9-11-2024)
“The Florida Plan for Residential Bishops in the GMC with Jay Therrell” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. Interview with the President pro tem of the Florida Conference who supports an alternative plan for GMC episcopacy. (Added 9-11-2024)
“North Alabama Conference General Conference Delegation Endorses General Superintendency Plan for Episcopacy Submitted by the Transitional Leadership Council” via North Alabama Conference. “As members of the North Alabama Provisional Annual Conference Delegation to the Convening
Conference of the Global Methodist Church, we enthusiastically endorse the General
Superintendency Plan for Episcopacy. We firmly believe that this plan, submitted by the
Transitional Leadership Council (TLC), accomplishes the following…” See also Article. (Added 9-11-2024)
“The Spirit of a New Connection” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “As our convening General Conference delegates gather in Costa Rica, now is the time for all GM local churches to pray and work together for a new connection empowered by the Holy Spirit. Now is the time for people and local churches to freely give of their time, talent, and resources to build an authentically connected church. A Church that watches over one another love, that extends grace, serves others, proclaims the truth, and holds one another accountable to its great calling.” (Added 9-11-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #12 – Petitions 94-100” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Ongoing video series reading through the petitions to General Conference. (Added 9-11-2024)
“An Open Letter to the Global Methodist General Conference” by Woody Hingle via Juicy Ecumenism. Recommended changes to the Book of Doctrines and Discipline about Scripture and membership. (Added 9-11-2024)
“Perfecting the General Superintendent Plan: Global Methodist Bishops (part 6)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. Suggested tweaks to the TLC-endorsed plan for bishops. (Added 9-11-2024)
“A Conversation on GMC Bishops with Dr. Tesia Mallory and Dr. Ryan Danker” via Firebrand Podcast. David Watson leads a discussion on options for GMC Episcopacy. (Added 9-10-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream 11 – Petitions 093 & 124” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing series on General Conference legislation. (Added 9-10-2024)
“To Teach and Preserve the Faith: Bishops and the Global Methodist Church” by David Watson via Firebrand Magazine. “This article is part of our Counterpoint series, in which Firebrand explores opposing viewpoints on theological topics. For a different view, read: The Hybrid Episcopacy Model: Maximum Flexibility, Minimal Bureaucracy by Nako Kellum, Monteen Pillay, Jeremy Rebman, and Jay Therrell. Each of these articles examines proposals for how bishops will function in the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 9-10-2024)
“David Watson Live….” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). Live discussion with TLC member David Watson on the proposal for the episcopacy. (Added 9-9-2024)
“Lifewatch Newsletter | August 1, 2024” via LifeWatch. Now serving the GMC, too. “Today’s is a new denominational landscape. As many predicted, The United Methodist Church is moving toward progressivism and, at the same time, striving to keep its tent as large and as anchored as possible. The Global Methodist Church is in the process of laying a doctrinal and disciplinary foundation that will, with God’s help, endure for decades to come.” (Added 9-9-2024)
Video via Facebook. News report that United Methodists in Zambia have left the UMC for the Global Methodist Church. (Added 9-9-2024)
“Traveling Bishops or Residential Bishops? The Global Methodist Church” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. Highlighting a video on Matt’s thoughts supporting general, itinerant superintendency. (Added 9-9-2024)
“The TLC’s Episcopal Proposal – A Conversation with Matt O’Reilly” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Matt has appeared on PlainSpoken before. He is a thought leader in Global Methodism and Pan-Methodism. He recently published a book on holiness, which you can find hyperlinked below. Today, he and I visited in order to try and reach clarity on the differences between the TLC’s plan for the episcopacy in the GMC and the Florida plan. Jay Therrell came on a couple weeks ago to explain the Florida plan, so Matt was gracious enough to offer himself to speak to the plan put forward by the primary governing body of the GMC thus far.” (Added 9-9-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Rob Townsend” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. Continuing series with nominees for interim bishop. (Added 9-9-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #10 – Petitions 089-093” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing series reading through legislation submitted to the 2024 convening General Conference of the GMC. (Added 9-9-2024)
“Seven Blunt, Cheerful Truths Surrounding the 2024 Global Methodist General Conference” by Bob Phillips via PeopleNeedJesus.net. “I offer seven observations on the process and outcomes of the General Conference. I don’t call them prophecies since most are assessable to any with sanctified common sense…” (Added 9-9-2024)
Overheard: From Petitions Secretary Lamar Oliver… “This week’s edits to the petitions consisted mostly of cleaning up page number/count information in the title blocks of the petitions. Additionally, there were a few small edits to the Index by Committee page. The Errata page (the last in each report) has been updated. The big news of the week on the petition front is the Pre-Conference Petitions Report has been released in Korean. As a reminder, the pagination for the petitions is the same across ALL translations. The Index by Committee page is at the front; the complete Schedule of Petitions is after the BDD & JPP; the two indexes and the petitions have hyperlinks to make navigating the PDF easier.” (Added 9-7-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines. “The New Horizons Global Methodist Church (GMC) in Cabanatuan City is now officially a Global Methodist Church congregation, following the approval of their application by the Transitional Leadership Council (TLC) in its meeting on August 26, 2024. This marks a significant milestone in the church’s journey and is a cause for celebration within the broader Global Methodist Church community. New Horizons is also the first GMC congregation in Nueva Ecija Province in the Philippines…” (Added 9-7-2024)
Post by Asabi Ali via GMC Nigeria Episcopal Facebook Group. Nigerian clergy receive computer training in a “Beyond These Walls” event. Photos. (Added 9-7-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Kimba Evariste” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. “The Global Methodist Church will decide in September 2024 how it will think about bishops and what their role should be in the emerging denomination. In this nine-part series, I interview the elders nominated to serve as two-year interim bishops. I enjoyed this time with them and think you will too.” (Added 9-7-2024)
“Shoreline Newsletter | September 6, 2024” via Great Lakes Conference. “Two Upcoming Church Planting & Multiplication Events. Delegation to Host Listening Session. Registration for Two Certified Lay Minister Program Courses.” (Added 9-6-2024)
“Methodist council sets membership rules” by Heather Hahn via UMNS. “With the ongoing friction in mind, the World Methodist Council sought input from the United Methodist Council of Bishops when Global Methodist leadership approached the ecumenical body about possible observer status.” (Added 9-6-2024)
“To Lead in These Times” by David Watson via Substack. “Faith, Courage, and Clarity” (Added 9-6-2024)
“Clergy Categories and the Office of Bishop” by Bob Zilhaver and Nate Fugate via Substack. “…In particular we will look at the categories of people’s roles within the church and discuss why it is important that bishops are not their own category of clergy, but instead hold a particular office with particular roles within the larger category (order) of elders. Finally, we will compare the proposed constitution with an amendment submitted by Shreve Community Church regarding bishops.” (Added 9-6-2024)
General Conference Agenda (PDF) via PeopleNeedJesus.net. For those having trouble with Microsoft Sharepoint, here is a PDF of the convening General Conference agenda published by the GMC on September 6, 2024. (Added 9-6-2024)
Post by Global Methodist Church (Facebook). Exciting News! The agenda for the Convening General Conference has now been published! Can’t join us in Costa Rica? No worries! Live streaming will be available, so everyone can participate no matter where you are. Stay tuned for more information on how you can join us virtually!” [images] (Added 9-6-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #9 – Petitions 078-085” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing video series reading through the petitions to the convening General Conference of the GMC. (Added 9-6-2024)
Post by Jeff Greenway via Facebook. “Some Thoughts on Overcoming Trust Deficits.” (Added 9-5-2024)
Post by Global Methodist Church via Facebook. “We are deeply grateful for the faithful work and unwavering dedication of Good News Magazine as they conclude their remarkable ministry. They have been an instrumental voice in shaping the future of our denomination and spreading the message of the Kingdom. We invite you to join us in thanking them for their tireless efforts and profound impact on the Global Methodist Church. Though their work is coming to a close, their legacy will continue!” (Added 9-5-2024)
“Financial Implications for Churches: Global Methodist Bishops (part 5)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “The biggest reason I’d prefer bishops to be compensated at the General Church level is because General Church connectional funding is capped at a much lower level than annual conference connectional funding.” (Added 9-5-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Jeff Greenway” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. “The Global Methodist Church will decide in September 2024 how it will think about bishops and what their role should be in the emerging denomination. In this nine-part series, I interview the elders nominated to serve as two-year interim bishops. I enjoyed this time with them and think you will t oo.Today’s interview is with Jeff Greenway from the Allegheny West Conference of the GMC.” (Added 9-5-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #7 – Petitions 065-071” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. “In this segment, I will aim to cover petitions 065-071.” See also “GC Convening Conference Episode 8 Take 2” (Added 9-5-2024)
“Responding to Florida Plan Claims: Global Methodist Bishops (part 3)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. See also “Biblical Reflections on Bishops: Global Methodist Bishops (part 4)” (Added 9-4-2024)
Newsletter via GMC of South Carolina. General Conference news, October Rooted Student Conference, GMC of SC Ambassadors available. (Added 9-4-2024)
“Doctrinal Integrity and Executive Power” by Nate Fugate and Bob Zilhaver via Substack. Part Six of a series on the proposed GMC Constitution. (Added 9-4-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #7 – Petitions 056-059” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this segment, I will aim to cover petitions 056-059. The audience is welcome to join in and help me sound smarter than I am. To be clear, I don’t represent the denomination of the GMC. I’m just a guy wading through this material as best as I am able. Many people have put their hopes in the GMC.” (Added 9-4-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via Facebook. Methodists do not trust one another, but hold one another accountable. (Added 9-4-2024)
“Trust the Holy Spirit and Each Other” by Bishops Mark Webb and Scott Jones via GMC. “As is natural, and even necessary, there have been disagreements along the way and compromises have been reached. We have missed some opportunities and mishandled others. We have sometimes lacked the time and personnel to do all we would have liked. These realities will be a part of our future. Creating a new church is a messy process. But thankfully, our God is always and mysteriously at work in the midst of our human messiness.” (Added 9-4-2024)
“Nominations Committee Releases Proposed Slate of Nominees for Connectional Commissions and Committees” via SoTheWorldWillKnow.org (PDF of E-mail). “Working from persons whose names were submitted by annual conferences as well as individuals, the Nominations Committee attempted to propose a diverse and balanced slate of members for each of the commissions and committees proposed to be formed by the convening General Conference.” (Added 9-3-2024)
Overheard: Why are there three nominees for interim bishop from Nigeria? They are following the procedure for the UMC West Africa Central Conferences. Thinking there would be a WACC meeting Summer of 2024 to elect Bishops for Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Cote D’Iviore, they followed their normal process of nominating three people. So they gathered all four AC’s to elect nominees in March of 2024. John Pena was first with 580 votes. Salama Hassan second with 381. Baziel was distant third. To my knowledge, the WACC has always elected the #1 candidate nominated from each of the four countries. (Added 9-3-2024)
“5 Things I Learned My First Year at Asbury” by Kevin Watson. “Asbury Theological Seminary is known throughout the church. And as people are sensing that some places may be shifting away from their historic commitments, there is growing openness and interest in partnering with Asbury. I am so curious to see what God does! The first year in Tulsa has been better than I could have hoped. But do you know my favorite thing about where I am at right now? I am even more excited by several things I am working on now than what I have experienced in the past. I have a deep confidence that the best is yet to come.” (Added 9-3-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #6 – Petitions 048-054” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this segment, I will aim to cover petitions 048-054. The audience is welcome to join in and help me sound smarter than I am. To be clear, I don’t represent the denomination of the GMC. I’m just a guy wading through this material as best as I am able. Many people have put their hopes in the GMC. We aim to do our part to bathe it in prayer and do our best to understand what is being presented to the body and why it matters!” (Added 9-3-2024)
Post by Absalom Nuhu Kodei via Facebook. A video naming the episcopal candidates from Nigeria. (Added 9-3-2024)
“The Wesleyan Doctrine of Apostolic Succession” by Andrew Thompson via Firebrand Magazine. “The unity in Christ that Hurlbut writes about is a unity through the teaching and person of Jesus Christ. It begins with Peter’s confession, and from there it descends through all the generations of doctrine and preaching for the sake of the Kingdom of God. We stand firmly within that succession.” (Added 9-3-2024)
“This Little Light of Mine: Scriptural Authority and Clergy Qualifications in the GMC [Firebrand Big Read]” by Suzanne Nicholson via Firebrand Magazine. “If the Global Methodist church truly values Scripture as its primary rule and authority, then the educational requirements for our clergy must be geared toward greater understanding of Scripture and the tradition of its interpretation. A robust educational requirement will better prepare clergy members to preach and teach their flock, as well as to defend against false teaching, both from within the church and in the wider world.” (Added 9-3-2024)
“Improving the Episcopal Selection Process” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Proposal for the selection of bishops in the Global Methodist Church. (Added 9-2-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Ryan Barnett” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). “The Global Methodist Church will decide in September 2024 how it will think about bishops and what their role should be in the emerging denomination. In this nine-part series, I interview the elders nominated to serve as two-year interim bishops. I enjoyed this time with them and think you will too. Today’s interview is with Ryan Barnett from the MidTexas Conference of the GMC.” (Added 9-2-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #5 – Petitions 036-042” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this segment, I will aim to cover petitions 036-042. The audience is welcome to join in and help me sound smarter than I am. To be clear, I don’t represent the denomination of the GMC. I’m just a guy wading through this material as best as I am able. Many people have put their hopes in the GMC. We aim to do our part to bathe it in prayer and do our best to understand what is being presented to the body and why it matters!” (Added 9-2-2024)
“Methodist Nature: Balanced Holy Spirit People” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. Methodists and the Holy Spirit. (Added 8-31-2024)
Final Petitions Report with August 30, 2024 Errata via SoTheWorldWillKnow.org (PDF). This petitions report includes corrections and an Errata Page at the end. Future updates expected each Friday as needed. (Added 8-31-2024)
Post via GMC South Carolina Conference (Facebook). “Rooted Student Conference Super Early Bird Special ends tomorrow! The GMC of South Carolina’s Youth Collective, will hold its first student ministry conference on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Rooted Student Conference will be held at Mt. Horeb Church in Lexington, SC, and will feature pastor, author, and speaker, Gerald Fadayomi of Home Church Roswell, GA.” (Added 8-31-2024)
Post via GMC Kenya Prov. Conference Facebook Page. [Photos] “Today the leadership of Nairobi District held a meeting to discuss the growth of the Church specifically on District level, among the agenda was progress of the Church at district Level, preparedness of welcoming our Visitors and Election of District leadership.” (Added 8-31-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Kenneth Levingston” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. “The Global Methodist Church will decide in September 2024 how it will think about bishops and what their role should be in the emerging denomination. In this nine-part series, I interview the elders nominated to serve as two-year interim bishops. I enjoyed this time with them and think you will too. Today’s interview is with Kenneth Levingston from the Trinity Conference of the GMC.” (Added 8-31-2024)
Overheard from Lamar Oliver, Petitions Secretary: “I just updated with Errata #1 the Pre-Conference Petitions Report in all five published languages. The plan is, unless something major arises that needs addressing immediately, to note the proofreading and other small errors that people pass along in a Friday evening errata update for each of the next two Fridays.” These updates appear can be found at the end of the Final Petition Reports. (Added 8-31-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Announces Additional Names Submitted for Possible Nomination for the Office of Bishop” via SoTheWorldWillKnow.org. “The Global Methodist Church received eight additional names by August 21, 2024, of persons who will be considered as potential nominees for up to three additional slots to be considered for the office of bishop to serve a two-year term. These persons were submitted by members of our church and will be considered by the delegates to General Conference, with the potential to join the nine nominees already presented by the Transitional Leadership Council (TLC).” (Added 8-31-2024)
Tweet via JMT. This “Christian Compass” locates the GMC just about in the middle. (Added 8-30-2024)
Tweet via GMC. Introductory video for Mike Schafer, the new Chief Connectional Officer for the GMC. (Added 8-30-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Announces Additional Names Submitted for Possible Nomination for the Office of Bishop” via GMC. Additional nominees are: Angela Pleasants (South Carolina), Bazel Yoila Yayuba (Nigeria), David Banks (North Carolina), Diana DeWitt (MidSouth), Hassan Salama (Nigeria), Jeff Buck (Great Lakes), John Pena Auta (Nigeria), Stephen Martyn (West Plains). (Added 8-30-2024)
“Convening General Conference Begins Meeting” by Tom Lambrecht via GMC. “Over the past two weeks, the Agenda and Nominations Committees have been meeting to flesh out their work. Both committees are composed solely of General Conference delegates elected by their annual conferences, nominated to serve, and appointed to these committees by the Transitional Leadership Council. The Agenda Committee has finalized the schedule for the Convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica. The proposed schedule is to be approved by the Transitional Leadership Council on September 2, 2024, and is posted here.” (Added 8-30-2024)
“GMC Bishop Nominee Interview with Carolyn Moore” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. “The Global Methodist Church will decide in September 2024 how it will think about bishops and what their role should be in the emerging denomination. In this nine-part series, I interview the elders nominated to serve as two-year interim bishops. I enjoyed this time with them and think you will too.” (Added 8-30-2024)
“Convening Conference Series – Constitutional Amendments with Nate Fugate” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “The constitution is pretty darn important. Nate sees many of the potential complications coming down the road if we do not correct some of the language. In this conversation, he and I go through several of the petitions that he submitted for the consideration of the plenary body. He explains his reasons for authoring each one. We talk a good deal about theory and history.” (Added 8-30-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Facebook). “I was notified yesterday that the GMC leadership had declined my application to offer similar coverage to the GMC’s Convening Conference that I had given to the UMC’s General Conference. They will be exercising copyright law over all footage, and they will not be offering any exceptions to me. They are not open to negotiating any special arrangement with me.” (Added 8-30-2024)
Post via Allegheny West Conference (Facebook). Image. “Share this invitation! Come join Bishop Mark Webb and Allegheny West President Pro Tempore Jeff Greenway for a time of teaching. There are four dates and locations to choose from –check below for your best option. All gatherings are free, just sign up at the link in the comments so that we can save your seat.” (Added 8-30-2024)
“Shoreline | August 30, 2024” via Great Lakes Conference. “Great Lakes Convening General Conference Delegation to Host Listening Session. Registration for Two Certified Lay Minister Program Courses Remain Open. Ethiopian Partnership Continues to Expand.” (Added 8-30-2024)
Overheard: Eight additional episcopal candidates have been nominated in addition to the nine originally named by the TLC. This new group will receive the same opportunity to submit a profile and sit for a video interview. (Added 8-30-2024)
“Finding Effective Leaders” by Rob Renfroe via Good News. “After a good conversation about structures that will make bishops and pastors accountable to the church unlike what we’ve seen in my lifetime, I told my friend what may be an overstatement, but I believe it. ‘Just about any system can work if you have the right people in place. No system will work if the wrong people are in charge.’” Competence, Compassion, and Character outlined as key traits for future GMC bishops. (Added 8-30-2024)
“Episcopal Nominees, Podcasts, and More…” by Andy Miller via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). Update on the podcast, including plans to host a forum for GMC episcopal candidates. Mentions Jeffrey Rickman’s philosophical difference with candidate interviews. Individual interviews coming. Rush of information expected, starting 8/30/2024. Five interviews have already happened. Order of release: Carolyn Moore, Kenneth Levingston (Sept. 1), Ryan Barnett (Sept. 2), Jeffrey Greenway (Sept. 5), Rob Townsend. Other candidates will be recorded soon. Andy will also interview Jay Therrell about the Florida proposal. (Added 8-30-2024)
“‘Churching,’ Post-Christendom Style” by David Watson via Substack. “From a biblical perspective, then, one who is ‘churched’ isn’t someone who is simply familiar with the common beliefs, practices, and culture of the church. The ‘churched’ are a those called out of the world and into communion with God and his people. In the process, we become something new ourselves. This is the result of the work of the Holy Spirit among those who sincerely call upon the name of Jesus.” (Added 8-30-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #4 – Petitions 033-036 w/ David Watson” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this segment, I will aim to cover petitions 033-036. The audience is welcome to join in and help me sound smarter than I am. To be clear, I don’t represent the denomination of the GMC. I’m just a guy wading through this material as best as I am able. Many people have put their hopes in the GMC. We aim to do our part to bathe it in prayer and do our best to understand what is being presented to the body and why it matters!” (Added 8-30-2024)
Overheard: Ministry and Local Church Legislative Committee Leadership: Chair: Leslie Tomlinson, Clergy, Mid-Tex. Vice-chair: Bonface Winyama, Clergy, Kenya/Ethiopia. Secretary: Liz Bowlin, Laity, North Alabama. (Added 8-29-2024)
Overheard: Conferences Legislative Committee met Tuesday, Aug. 27th and elected John Weston (Clergy, Western States PAC) as chair, Eugene Paik (Laity, Korean-American PAC), and Sarah Williams (Clergy, North Carolina PAC). (Added 8-29-2024)
“Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #3 – Petitions 029-032” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Continuing march through convening General Conference legislation. (Added 8-29-2024)
Overheard: Judicial Administration Legislative Committee Officers: Jimmy Towson, Clergy South Georgia (Chair), Zawdie “Doc” Abiade, Clergy Great Lakes (Vice Chair), and Debbie Smalley, Laity Emerald Coast (Secretary). (Added 8-28-2024)
“The Challenges and Joys of Sharing the Faith with Children and Teenagers” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Recently, three regional leaders shared their observations on the immense challenges local churches face as they seek to disciple children and teens, and then a professor in Christian Discipleship offered some practical advice for addressing them.” (Added 8-28-2024)
Updated: “Convening Conference Petitions Series – Petition 020” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). See also “Convening Conference Petitions Series – Petitions 021 and 022” and “Convening Conference Petitions Series – Live Stream #2 – Petitions 023-028” (Added 8-27-2024)
“Wesleyans and Episcopacy” by Ryan Danker via Firebrand Magazine. “In the emerging Global Methodist Church, many conversations about episcopacy are pragmatic and reactionary, thus theologically and historically void, such as attempts to undermine a localized episcopacy or to make it a temporary office.” (Added 8-27-2024)
Overheard: Constitution Legislative Committee Officers: Ryan Barnett (Chair), Kathleen Engelman (Vice Chair), and James Politt (Secretary). Elected via Zoom on 8-26-2024. (Added 8-27-2024)
“Which plan moves too fast? Global Methodist Bishops (part 2)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “The Florida Hybrid Plan could give us 40 bishops in as little as two years.” (Added 8-27-2024)
“General Conference Petitions” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Facebook). Discussion of the General Conference petitions. See also YouTube. (Added 8-26-2024)
Post by GMC (Facebook). “Today marks the first virtual legislative committee meeting with the Episcopacy & Superintendency Committee! These virtual gatherings are a vital step in helping each committee get to know one another and familiarize themselves with the important business ahead of the Convening General Conference. This is just the beginning—six more committee meetings are scheduled for this week!” (Added 8-26-2024)
[Corrected Link] “Final Petition Report (English)” via SoTheWorldWillKnow [Microsoft Sharepoint Link]. The August 23 version of the petition report for the San Jose General Conference. See also PDF here. (Added 8-26-2024)
Post via Mega Manila Conference (Facebook). A concert of prayer event for General Conference. [photos] (Added 8-26-2024)
Post by David DeSilva via Facebook. Coming soon from Seedbed: An annotated Catechism for the Global Methodist Church, with annotations by David DeSilva. (Added 8-26-2024)
“The Hybrid Episcopacy Model: Maximum Flexibility, Minimal Bureaucracy” by Nako Kellum via Florida Conference. “We feel the model we’ve offered is better attuned to ensuring our denomination stays a movement that prevents us from becoming a top-down-oriented institution.” (Added 8-26-2024)
“Maximizing Spiritual Leadership: Global Methodist Bishops (part 1)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “My argument is that the GMC generally and the annual conferences particularly are large enough organizations that we need to relieve bishops from much of the administrative leadership of the annual conferences and delegate that work to Conference Superintendents.” (Added 8-26-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church: Dreams and Visions for the First Days, Acts 2:17” via Asbury Seminary. “The [Nov. 12-14 “Dreams and Visions for the First Days” Conference offers an opportunity to gather at Asbury’s Wilmore campus after the GMC’s Convening General Conference in Costa Rica to (1) Worship together in historic Estes Chapel, (2) Discuss the decisions made for the future in Costa Rica, (3) Gather with the leaders at the heart of the conversation, and (4) Meet and hear from the next generation of the church at Asbury.” (Added 8-24-2024)
Updated Pre-Conference Petition Report via GMC (PDF of E-Mail). “The new report will be available on the conference website soon, but in the meantime, here are the key highlights.” (Added 8-24-2024)
“Five Points John Calvin Got Wrong about Romans 9” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. Highlighting “an article by Charles Edward White (Spring Arbor University) titled “John Calvin’s Five-Point Misunderstanding of Romans 9: An Intertextual Analysis” and can be read for free online in the Wesleyan Theological Journal 46.2 (2006): 28-50.” (Added 8-24-2024)
“Disagreeing (Respectfully) About Transparency in the GMC – A Conversation with Keith Sweat” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “A couple of weeks ago, he published an article, “Beauty, Boats, & Bishops” in which he argued against some understandings of transparency that I happened to have articulated around the episcopacy in the GMC. I asked him to speak with me on the matter publicly, hoping to model how folks can disagree without being disagreeable. I guess it’s up to you to decide how we did. What I can say is that, after the fact, I have more affection and respect for Rev. Sweat. I think that means we did it right.” (Added 8-24-2024)
“Southern Baptist seminaries train 18.8% of US theology students” by Greg Garrison via AL.com. “Beeson Divinity School at Samford University is an interdenominational theological program training students from 15 denominations at a Baptist university. Its students include Southern Baptists, and the school recently aligned with the Global Methodist Church to train future pastors for that denomination, which broke off from the United Methodist Church.” (Added 8-23-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). “A significant moment in the journey of the Global Methodist Church: In the coming weeks, Keith Boyette, our esteemed Transitional Connectional Officer, will spend valuable time with Mike Schafer, our new Connectional Operations Officer, to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. As they work together, we reflect with deep gratitude on Keith’s remarkable leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication. The path Keith has paved has been instrumental, and we are excited for the future under Mike’s guidance. We invite you to join us in prayer for both of these leaders during this important time. Thank you, Keith, for all you’ve done, and thank you, Mike, for answering this call!” (Added 8-23-2024)
Post via Kinsasha District (Facebook). [images] Celebrating an event in the Congo Conference. (Added 8-23-2024)
“TLC Transitioning Out of Authority in the Global Methodist Church” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Discussing the dissolution of the TLC at the close of General Conference. (Added 8-22-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Reminder that Saturday is the registration deadline for General Conference. (Added 8-22-2024)
Post by North Carolina GMC (Facebook). “As the Chair of the NC Delegation for the Convening General Conference, I have some exciting news to share with you. Our NC Delegation prayerfully discerned that we should nominate David Banks for one of the two-year interim episcopal positions to be elected at the Convening General Conference in Costa Rica, this September.” (Added 8-21-2024)
Post by North Carolina GMC (Facebook). “Our new GuideStone insurance coverage includes a free benefit for Type 2 diabetics, and I want to be sure you know about it if you’re Type 2 like me.
It’s called Twin Health.” (Added 8-21-2024)
“Jefferson Knight: The Threat of the Global Methodist Church in Africa: A Call for Unity and Resistance” by Jefferson Knight via UM & Global. “The GMC has successfully recruited several key leaders from the UMC in Africa to assist in their mission, a move that threatens not only the unity of the church but also the very fabric of community life across the continent. Notably, Bishop John Wesley Yohana, the former Bishop of the Nigeria Episcopal Area, has joined their ranks, lending credibility to an organization whose agenda is increasingly perceived as divisive and destructive.” (Added 8-21-2024)
“Understanding the Florida Episcopal Plan for the GMC” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Interview with Jay Therrell about the Florida Hybrid Model for Episcopacy, an alternative to the TLC-endorsed plan. (Added 8-21-2024)
Post by Everjoyce Madzinga via Facebook. Advertising a GMC Revival event in Alberta, Canada, beginning on August 31. (Added 8-21-2024)
“Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council Looks Forward to Transition” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Eleven of the original 17 members are still serving on the Council, which has since expanded to 21. The members continue to meet every Monday morning at 9 am U.S. Eastern Time, largely deliberating and voting on matters forwarded to it by numerous commissions, task forces, provisional annual conferences, and transitional conference advisory teams. TLC leaders believe thousands of people have participated in the formation the GM Church.” (Added 8-21-2024)
“The Power of Prayer – A Conversation with David Player” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. A GMC elder originally from South Africa discusses prayer. (Added 8-20-2024)
Overheard: From Dianne Burnett: “I was made aware of an audio issue with the video interview featuring Rev. John Beyers. Despite my best efforts to rectify the problem, I have been unable to resolve it. Full transparency, it was not that way earlier, so I have no clue what happened! However, I want to make it right. To ensure that John can fully and clearly share his heart with you, I will be re-recording his interview tomorrow. I will then send out a new link with the updated video shortly after the recording is complete.” (Added 8-20-2024)
Updated Hybrid Episcopacy Model PPT (PDF) by Florida Delegation. This version corrects some errors in the original. (Added 8-20-2024)
“A Guide to the Negative World” by David Watson via Firebrand Magazine. Review of Aaron M. Renn’s Life in the Negative World, which gives insights in how Christians and Christian organizations can navigate in a world where Christian faith is regarded as a negative. (Added 8-20-2024)
“From Grand Deposit to Poor Farce? Chris Lohrstorfer on Recovering Biblical Holiness” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. The bifurcation of salvation and sanctification was a huge mistake of the nineteenth-century holiness movement in America. To over-emphasize what they perceived was a devalued doctrine of sanctification, they began to preach a gospel that was often seen as “I get Jesus when I get saved, and I get the Spirit when I get sanctified.” (Added 8-20-2024)
“Episcopal Change of Mind” by David Donnan via Firebrand Magazine. A South Georgia elder retracts his earlier support for residential bishops (as expressed in the Florida Hybrid Plan), and explains why. (Added 8-20-2024)
“So Our Delegates Will Know…The Nominees for Two-Year Bishop” by Dianne Burnett (PDF) “…we are excited to provide you with written profiles and video interviews of the nine nominees currently nominated for the two-year bishop position should the relevant legislation be adopted. We hope these resources are helpful in the discernment process.” (Added 8-19-2024)
Post by John Beyers via Facebook. [Photos of Bishop Jones visit to Wesley GMC First Anniversary Celebration and related regional informational event.] “Almost 100 Methodists from across three districts, including my NGA Conference Presiding Elder colleagues, The Rev. Joy Griffin and The Rev. David Wofford, enjoyed hearing how the Global Methodist movement is reaching the far corners of the world.” (Added 8-19-2024)
Post by Kenny Ott via Facebook. [photo] “Congregations from around The North Georgia Conference of the Global Methodist Church coming together to learn about the one board model of church governance.” (Added 8-19-2024)
Post via GMC South Carolina (Facebook). Video highlights of “Behold!,” the recent annual conference session. (Added 8-19-2024)
The Faith Responders Website. Disaster Response Ministry: “We are honored to be an Extension Ministry of the Global Methodist Church. We profess the values and beliefs of the Global Methodist Church seeking to make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly and witness boldly.” See also introductory video. (Added 8-17-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (Facebook). Lists the top ten GMC conferences by number of congregations. (Added 8-17-2024)
Post via North Georgia Conference (Facebook). Announcing a partnership with Nigeria. (Added 8-17-2024)
“Understanding the Process: Nominees for Two-Year Bishop Positions and Next Steps” via GMC (E-Mail PDF). More information on the proposed election process and a letter from the candidates that have been named to date. Letter states there will be a townhall video with Andy Miller III. PDF of Letter. (Added 8-17-2024)
“Article Five: Introduction to Legislative Powers” by Bob Zilhaver and Nate Fugate. “Regarding the Constitution of the GMC, the delegates will face several key decisions on how legislative power will be distributed and exercised. In terms of federalism, they will need to discern what constitutional bodies should be established to ensure a system of unifying authority that begins with the General Conference and extends to the most contextual spiritual expressions in local churches.” (Added 8-17-2024)
“Learning to Trust Again” by Jay Therrell via Florida Conference. “This past week I’ve seen mistrust rear its ugly head in multiple ways. I’ve had members of our Cabinet and staff fussed at and taken to task over simple and benign requests. I’ve seen churches worry that we were trying to take an ownership interest in their property – which couldn’t be further from the truth… At the heart of all of this – I believe – is a dearth of trust and a heaping dose of post-traumatic stress.” (Added 8-16-2024)
“A Parting Thank You” by Rob Renfroe and Tom Lambrecht via Good News. “Earlier this summer, each of us transferred our ministerial credentials from the UM Church to the Global Methodist Church. We had remained within the UM Church so we might attend one final General Conference and work on behalf of our African and other international friends who wanted the same opportunity to disaffiliate that we in the U.S. had been given.” (Added 8-16-2024)
“GMC Episcopacy The TLC Plan vs The Florida Plan” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “There are two major plans being proposed for a GMC episcopacy. In this segment, I go through a document that contrasts them against each other.” (Added 8-16-2024)
“Unfortunate Start to Episcopacy in the GMC” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Substack). “The leadership of the TLC and those under them love the Lord and have great intentions. I’m grateful for all of the work they have done. My remarks here should not reflect on the whole of their character or their work. My issue here is limited to systems theory and transparency. I hope my thoughts here can be considered within that capacity without getting too personal.” (Added 8-15-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Celebrating Mike Schafer’s first day on the job as he begins transitioning with Keith Boyette in the role of Chief Connectional Officer. Ten fun facts about Mike. (Added 8-15-2024)
“Support Our Delegates” via GMC Virginia (Facebook). An appeal for funds to help underwrite the travel expenses of General Conference delegates. (Added 8-15-2024)
“Living Courageously in the World” by Timothy Tennent. “The challenges we face today cannot be met by a business-as-usual approach. This challenge cannot be met by a pastor-as-comfortable-career-option approach. This challenge cannot be met by a “climb the denominational ladder” strategy.” (Added 8-15-2024)
“Delegation Listening Session” via North Georgia Conference. “The delegation will begin with a brief overview of the General Conference and some of the resolutions impacting the future of the Global Methodist Church. The majority of the session will be devoted to your comments and questions. The listening session will be Saturday, August 24 at Life Springs Church, 10608 Hwy 109, Zebulon, GA 30295, 1:00 PM.” (Added 8-14-2024)
“Does the Global Methodist Church need a new mission statement?” by Steve Cordle via Facebook. Suggests the mission statement remain the same, but a vision statement be added: “to spread scriptural holiness across the globe.” (Added 8-14-2024)
“Delegation Continues Diligent Work in Preparing for General Conference” by Sarah Wanck via Great Lakes Conference. Update on the work of the General Conference delegation. (Added 8-14-2024)
“The Way Home: August 14, 2024” via Mississippi – West Tennessee Conference. Example of a Charge Conference form, and other conference resources. (Added 8-14-2024)
“Evangelism Training & Outreach at GMC General Conference” via Spirit & Truth. “Our Spirit & Truth team is excited to have been invited by the leadership of the Global Methodist Church to lead evangelism training and prayer outreaches in conjunction with the 2024 Convening Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica.” (Added 8-14-2024)
“Article Four: Restrictive Rules and Fair Process” by Bob Zilhaver and Nate Fugate. “The experiences of John Wesley and his contemporaries underscore the importance of balancing freedom in the Spirit with accountability to church Discipline. For the delegates to consider that perhaps the best way to ensure this freedom under the Spirit, while maintaining accountability, might best be achieved with the adoption of the Shreve Community Church Council’s amendment, Petition XI.2, to preserve fair process. By doing so, they will honor the Methodist heritage of “liberty in law,” ensuring that true freedom is maintained through just and equitable practices.” See also Article Three: “Restrictive Rules and Lessons Learned” (Added 8-14-2024)
Post by Austin Global Methodist Church via Facebook. [image] “Exciting times ahead when representatives from our Mid-Texas Annual Conference Bulgarian partners visit Texas next month! We are blessed to receive a visit during worship on September 15th!” (Added 8-14-2024)
“GM Church Welcomes New Chief Financial Officer” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “[Robert] Worthington, 38, will join a small administrative staff charged with implementing the denomination’s mission while remaining a resourceful, creative, and missionally minded movement. Launched on May 1, 2022, the GM Church is composed of 4,670 local churches organized into 36 provisional annual conferences around the world.” (Added 8-14-2024)
“There is Holy Spirit Fire in this Mission!” by Mary Lou Reece via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Travelling the world in support of the GMC has led the spouse of Bishop Scott Jones to conclude that our current mission statement is powerful and should be left in place. (Added 8-13-2024)
“Hot Takes on GMC Episcopacy” by Chris Ritter via PNJ’s Team Caffeine. Sharing a news round-up and thoughts by Scott Field on the Florida Proposal for GMC Episcopacy. (Added 8-13-2024)
“Letter from Mike Powers” via Mid South GMC Conference. The president pro tem announces four regional concerts of prayer in advance of the convening General Conference. (Added 8-12-2024)
“Northeast Conference Appoints First Lay Leader” via Northeast Conference. “Reverend Steven Taylor, announced the selection of Jacqueline Kim as the first Lay Leader of the new conference.” (Added 8-12-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Open invitation to attend the convening General Conference in Costa Rica. (Added 8-11-2024)
“Conference connects global Methodist-Wesleyan family” via United Church of Canada. “Every five years, the World Methodist Conference meets as a global gathering of the Methodist-Wesleyan family. From August 13 to 18, 2024, the 22nd World Methodist Conference will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden.” (Added 8-12-2024)
“Joyful Spirit Methodist Church to Host Open House for New Building” via Wadena Pioneer Journal (Minnesota). The people formerly of Wadena and Deer Creek UMC’s open a new building as a Global Methodist congregation. (Added 8-12-2024)
“Notes on Bishops in the Free Methodist Church” by Chris Ritter (PDF). A document summarizing how the Free Methodist Church structures their episcopacy. (Added 8-10-2024)
Post via South Carolina Conference (Facebook). [photos] “During our final day of BEHOLD we celebrated our two deacons and 18 newly ordained clergy. (Photo Credit: Revivalist Matt Snelgrove)” (Added 8-10-2024)
“Polite Each Other to Death” by Storm the Gates (Mid-Texas Conference) Podcast. “Jason and Shea are joined by Jeffrey Rickman of the PlainSpoken podcast on this fourth episode of Storm The Gates. Jeffrey shares his journey with the Lord being called into pastoral ministry and starting the podcast. They discuss the importance of speaking the truth in love, having healthy disagreements that don’t result in the breaking of fellowship, and their longing for the Global Methodist Church to stay rooted in scriptural holiness in every facet of the organization.” (Added 8-10-2024)
“Understanding the Philippine Context, Walking in the Spirit – A Conversation with Luther Oconer” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. “Rev. Dr. Luther Oconer is the President Pro Tempore of the Mega Manila Provisional Conference of the Global Methodist Church. He is also a professor at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is a charismatic Christian in the Wesleyan way. In this conversation, we talk about how it is that Westerners can understand and walk in faith alongside Filipinos. I got some great history of the region, and he helped me to understand recent statements from the United Methodist bishops in the area. It turns out there is a tumultuous history of schisms within Methodism there. We also talk a good deal about his charismatic leanings and how it is that he believes this is core and key, not only to living out our heritage, but also to reaching the world for Christ.” (Added 8-10-2024)
Shoreline Newsletter: August 9, 2024 by Great Lakes Conference. GL PAC Seeking Applicants for Administrative Assistant. Great Lakes Conference Announces Registration for Certified Lay Minister Program Courses. Ethiopian Partnership Continues to Expand.” (Added 8-9-2024)
“Weekly Live Stream for August 9, 2024” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. Weekly discussion of Methodist-related topics, including the convening General Conference. (Added 8-9-2024)
“Special Announcement from the President Pro Tem and the Cabinet” via The Mississippi-West Tennessee Conference (Mailchimp). The conference will begin the process of launching campus ministries in every college and university. (Added 8-9-2024)
Decision Guide via South Carolina Conference. Materials for churches considering affiliating with the GMC. (Added 8-9-2024)
Pre-Conference Packet via South Carolina Conference. Materials for the August 8-9 annual conference session, “Behold.” (Added 8-9-2024)
Flood Pictures of Hickory Global Methodist Church in Hermitage (PA) via Facebook. (Added 8-9-2024)
“Lubbock pastor Mike Schafer to step into top leadership role for Methodist denomination” by Alex Driggars via Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Local feature on the GMC’s incoming Connectional Operating Officer. (Added 8-9-2024)
“GMC General Conference: Two Petitions on Appointment Making and Mission Statement That I Support” by Cambron Wright via Substack. In support of appointment-making petition and a new mission statement recommended by David Watson. (Added 8-8-2024)
“Methodism’s Roadmap to ‘Showers of Grace’” by Wyatt Flicker via Juicy Ecumenism. Danker’s suggestion that the Global Methodist Church adopt Wesley’s words as its mission statement was met with a smattering of approving nods and exclamations of “amen!” (Added 8-8-2024)
Post via KL Najan via Facebook. “On behalf of the Young People of Southern Nigeria Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church, Nigeria Episcopal Area, I congratulate his Lordship on this great recognition, honor, and appointment.” (Added 8-7-2024)
“Introduction on GMC Constitutional Purpose” by Bob Zilhaver and Nate Fugate via Substack. “Our goal is to help create a document that not only defines our core beliefs and governance structures but also promotes accountability, efficient administration, and spiritual growth within our global community, for the sake of better sharing the Gospel, making disciples of Jesus Christ, and building his Kingdom.” See also “Reflection on the Hierarchy of Law and the Restrictive Rules” (Added 8-7-2024)
Newsletter by South Carolina Conference via Mailchimp. Matt Yon appointed PE of Upstate District. Information on “BEHOLD,” the annual conference session to be held August 8th – 9th at Mt. Horeb Church in Lexington, S.C.. (Added 8-7-2024)
Post via North Georgia GMC Conference. Observing the Forty Days of Prayer for the convening General Conference. Forty Day Prayer Guide (Added 8-7-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Welcomes Bishop Johnwesley Yohanna and Recognizes Four Nigerian Conferences as Provisional Annual Conferences” by Diane Burnett via GMC. “Along with Bishops Scott J. Jones and Mark J. Webb, Bishop Yohanna serves as a general superintendent of the entire church. He will have continuing responsibilities related to overseeing congregations and clergy in Nigeria. However, the GM Church does not appoint bishops to serve as residential bishops. Bishop Yohanna has announced his intention to become a bishop emeritus once legislation on the episcopacy and superintendency is adopted by the GM Church convening General Conference and implemented.” (Added 8-7-2024)
“Answering Critiques from Keith Sweat” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Response to “Beauty, Boats, and Bishops” on the election of interim bishops in the GMC. (Added 8-6-2024)
“Elesha Coffman” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness Podcast. “Dr. Elesha Coffman is a professor at Baylor University and the author of several books … including her latest, Turning Points in American Church History: How Pivotal Events Shaped a Nation and a Faith. I want to thank Scot McKnight for his review of this one, which got me very interested. So let’s talk history and Holy Spirit …” (Added 8-6-2024)
“Benefits Bulletin: August 6, 2024” via GMC Benefits Office (PDF). “Understanding GuideStone Insurance Invoices: A Breakdown of Who Pays What.” Links to informational webinars. (Added 8-6-2024)
“Appointment of Administrative Committees of the General Conference” via GMC (PDF). The people serving on administrative committees for the convening General Conference. (Added 8-5-2024)
“Thoughts Upon the First General Conference” by Stephen Fife. Pursue holiness, not power. Belief and practice must develop together. Keep it simple. (Added 8-5-2024)
Comparison Document by Mike Womack (PDF). The head of the Great Lakes Conference delegation created this comparison between the TLC Episcopacy Plan and the Florida Proposal. MS Excel Version. (Added 8-5-2024)
“Equipping Methodism in the Spanish-Speaking World” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Will Faircloth is the President of The Wesley Heritage Foundation. He also leads the Instituto do Estudios Wesleyanos. He and his organization are engaged in the promotion of the Wesleyan theological tradition in the Spanish-speaking world.” (Added 8-5-2024)
Bishop Yohanna Welcome Letter by Keith Boyette (PDF). “Earlier today, the Transitional Leadership Council voted to receive you as an elder and clergy member of the GM Church and to recognize you as an active bishop of the GM Church effective July 29, 2024. Along with Bishops Scott J. Jones and Mark J. Webb, you will serve as a general superintendent of the GM Church. You will also continue to provide episcopal oversight to Global Methodist congregations and clergy throughout Nigeria. Additionally, today, the Transitional Leadership Council has confirmed the formation and commencement of operations of four provisional annual conferences in Nigeria, and appointed the persons identified below as presidents pro tem of the respective provisional annual conferences…” (Added 8-5-2024)
Post via Baltimore-Washington WCA (Facebook). “This morning, Bishop John Wesley Yohanna was welcomed as an active Bishop in the Global Methodist Church, and all 4 Nigerian Annual Conferences were received as a whole into the GMC. North Georgia and North Alabama will be mission partners with the 4 Nigerian ACs.” (Added 8-5-2024)
“They Are Meeting With God Already” by Storm the Gates, Podcast of the Mid-Texas Conference. “Shea and Jason talk about their roles as pastors and how they navigate around American politics. The Rev. Dr. Rusty Freeman joins them to talk about Revive and the Wesley House of Studies at Baylor University. You don’t want to miss Rusty’s testimony to God’s faithfulness.” (Added 8-5-2024)
“Beauty, Boats, and Bishops” by Keith Sweat. “I see deficiencies with the list and the process. I do not attribute them to a breach of trust but to the nature of the work and the fallibility of processes. The deficiencies have remedies that do not require accusations.” (Added 8-2-2024)
“Weekly Live Stream for August 2, 2024” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Roundup of several Methodist topics, including GMC General Conference legislation. (Added 8-3-2024)
Post by Wesley Biblical Seminary (Facebook). October 10 Event: “We hope you will join us as we celebrate the inauguration of Dr. Andy Miller III as our new president, marking the next chapter in our continuing mission to develop trusted leaders for faithful churches! If you can attend in person, please RSVP at http://wbs.edu/rsvp, and if not, we hope you will join us via live-stream on our YouTube channel on Oct. 10 as we “fan the flame” of our commitment to serve God’s purposes in our generation.” (Added 8-3-2024)
“GMC Prayer Announcement” by Laura Ballinger. Chair of the GMC Prayer Steering Committee invites the church to Forty Days of Prayer and Fasting for General Conference. See Special E-Mail here. (Added 8-2-2024)
“Thoughts From a Superstitious Fool” by David Watson via Substack. Sonya Massey’s slaying as an example of the reality of spiritual evil. “Our baptism is a rebuke of Satan and his minions in the name of Jesus. Thus he will assuredly attack us.” (Added 8-2-2024)
“Message from Mike featuring a special guest” via West Plains Conference. Video introducing Rick Enns as president of the West Plains Conference. (Added 8-1-2024)
“The Way Home: July 31, 2024” via Mississippi – West Tennessee Conference. Newsletter covers: General Conference Prayer, District Rallies, August 13 Jeremy Smith Event, Beach Retreat 2024, and First Anniversary Celebration. (Added 7-31-2024)
Forty Day Prayer Guide via GMC. August 7 – September 15 Prayer Guide for the Convening General Conference. (Added 8-1-2024)
“Summary of The Episcopacy in American Methodism by James Kirby” by Chris Ritter (PDF). A resource for General Conference delegates thinking through the big issues related to episcopacy in the GMC. (Added 8-1-2024)
Post by GMC Virginia (Facebook). Repeating the 40-Day Call to prayer for General Conference. See also here. (Added 8-1-2024)
Post by Wilberforce Bwire via Facebook. [photos] “We wholeheartedly appreciate God and the Mauston Methodist Church family for hugely blessing the Busia Uganda clergy with bicycles for ministry.
Our fellow clergy of Tororo and Namayingo Districts of Uganda are very desperate for cost effective transportation means.” (Added 7-31-2024)
“Presiding Elders & Districts Announced” via South Carolina Conference (MailChimp). “The Global Methodist Church of South Carolina is pleased to announce the formation of 7 new districts and the selection of presiding elders effective September 1st…” (Added 7-31-2024)
“Why a General Conference?” by Walter Fenton via GMC. Interview with Bishops Jones and Webb about the need for a General Conference. (Added 7-31-2024)
Post by Mary Lou Reece via Facebook. “Chris Ritter is one of my favorite super smart Wesleyan folks! If you want to be inspired by the vast, rich worldwide Wesleyan movement, of which the GMC is a part take an hour and listen!! I LOVED his conversation with this remarkable guy named Will Faircloth!
I highly recommend it. Thank you Christopher Ritter for fleshing this out!” (Added 7-31-2024)
“The Convening Conference of Global Methodism – A Conversation With Beth Ann Cook” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Rev. Beth Ann Cook has served the Lord Jesus many years as a Methodist. She capably served within the highest levels of The United Methodist Church, and then she brought her gifts to the Global Methodists when we split away. She has been tasked with the leadership of the group that is responsible for planning the Convening Conference this September. In this conversation, I get some of her personal and professional history, then we talk about all the many efforts required to put this gathering together in San Jose.” (Added 7-31-2024)
Legislative Committee Assignments via GMC (PDF). A PDF of the convening General Conference Legislative Committee Assignments for those who may have had difficulty accessing it otherwise. (Added 7-31-2024)
“Nigeria bishop leaves United Methodist Church” by Eveline Chikwanah via UMNS. Announcing the decision, Yohanna said: “The cabinet of the Southern Nigeria annual conference in conjunction with the North East therefore reject (developments in the UMC) and we adhere to the biblical teachings and we are going to follow the body of Jesus Christ. I stand by the decision of cabinet and that is what I will abide by…. After his announcement about leaving the denomination, signage for the Global Methodist Church was erected at some churches and the episcopal offices at Mile Six, Jalingo, which is home to the church head offices, hospital and orphanage.” (Added 7-31-2024)
“Details for Mission Opportunities at the Upcoming Convening General Conference” via SoTheWorldWillKnow.org. Details on mission opportunities during the convening General Conference in Costa Rica. (Added 7-30-2024)
“John Wesley Speaks Español” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. An interview with Will Faircloth about Costa Rica, the Spanish-speaking Wesleyan World, and the larger Wesleyan family. (Added 7-30-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Announces Legislative Committee Assignments for Upcoming Convening General Conference” by Diane Burnett via GMC. “The Global Methodist Church is pleased to announce that the Transitional Leadership Council (TLC) has approved the legislative committee assignments for the delegates elected to serve at the upcoming convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, from September 20-26. Delegates were made aware of their assignments today, and the entire list can be viewed here.” (Added 7-29-2024)
World Press Briefing on the Position of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria on July 29, 2024 by Bishop John Wesley Yohanna. “In view of the Special Called session on 24th July, 2024 where all delegates of the Nigeria Episcopal Area United Methodist Church took collective decision to exit the United Methodist Church we wish to inform the general public that we have unanimously exited the United Methodist Church and join the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 7-29-2024)
“The Paris Olympics and the Mocking of God” by Jay Therrell via Florida Conference. “God doesn’t need us to defend Him. He’s infinitely powerful, all-knowing, and all-present. I’m entirely finite. God doesn’t need my meager abilities. That said, He’s worthy of our defense.” (Added 7-29-2024)
Post by LGU Ibajay via Facebook. Philippines government site: “The Kingdom Partners 9:38 of the Global Methodist Church, which has thousands of churches worldwide, represented by Rev. Brad McKenzie and his team from Texas, U.S.A, had a meaningful courtesy call with Mayor Jose Miguel M. Miraflores.” (Added 7-29-2024)
“The Bacchanal and the Communion Table” by David Watson via Substack. “You reenacted the Last Supper with drag queens in a scene reminiscent of a celebration of the Greek god of frat parties. It is simply inconceivable that someone didn’t say, Hey… This celebration of debauchery is a great idea and all… but do you think it might offend Christians? Of course they knew it would offend Christians.” (Added 7-29-2024)
“New Hope Methodist of Tishomningo welcomes Pastor” via The Madill Record. “The newly formed New Hope Methodist Church will welcome Rev. Dan Patman as its founding pastor on Sunday, August 4… Rev. Patman recently transferred his ministerial credentials to the Global Methodist Church. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed to serve at New Hope Methodist.” (Added 7-27-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Releases Petitions to be Considered at Convening General Conference” via GMC. Petitions released for the September Convening General Conference. (Added 7-26-2024)
“Timothy Tennent | The Risen Christ and the World Wide Mission of the Church” via Theology Project (YouTube). “In this sermon, preached at Christ Church Birmingham, Dr. Timothy Tennent connects the dots between the resurrection of Jesus and the church’s mission.” (Added 7-26-2024)
“Shoreline Newsletter: July 26, 2024” via Great Lakes Conference. Nehemiah Journey, Ethiopian Partnership Expands, Registration for Certified Lay Minister Program Courses, GM Church Announces 40 Day Season of Prayer and Fasting Ahead of Historic Convening General Conference” (Added 7-26-2024)
“The GMC in Tanzania – A Conversation with Upendo Likondi” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Upendo Likondi is the President Pro Tempore of the GMC in Tanzania. In this conversation, he details his journey into and out of The United Methodist Church, and how God has created a way for him to lead in this time. He details the activity of God in their movement, and the ways in which we can come alongside them to be a part of their work. Take some time to learn about a Christian brother and the work of God in his midst.” (Added 7-26-2024)
“Hell, Heaven, and Purgatory with Jerry Walls” by Andy Miller via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). “Dr. Jerry Walls has spent his career helping Christians think about the afterlife. He has written multiple books on Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory. He is also well-known for a book he co-authored called Why I Am Not a Calvinist. His critique of Calvinism is also related to his thoughts on the afterlife. I enjoyed this conversation with Dr. Walls and think you will too.” (Added 7-26-2024)
Overheard: The recent addition of new delegates from Africa has slightly delayed the release of legislative committee assignments for the convening General Conference. The goal is to have a finalized list ready for the TLC to approve on Monday, with a public release of information following that. (Added 7-26-2024)
Updated and Expanded Summation (7-25-2024, 4pm): [Disclaimer: Nigeria is notoriously difficult for Westerners to understand. This is my best attempt to gather what is happening. See also this primer for background information.] A special session of the Southern and Northeast Annual Conferences of the Nigeria Episcopal Area met on July 24, 2024 at McBride United Methodist Church in Jalingo, Taraba State. The cabinet members from all four Nigerian conferences were also present and the delegates present took the opportunity to act upon their recommendation to leave the United Methodist Church and join the Global Methodist Church. According to this video (6:00) Bishop John Wesley Yohanna affirmed the decision of the cabinet at that meeting. According to Absalom Nuhu Kodei, these votes were unanimous but aspirational and will need to be followed by due process in both denominations. The original purpose of the called session was negotiated reconciliation with the Ande Emmanuel dissident group. Bishop John Schol was visiting Nigeria from the USA to see if he could help unify the factions and solidify the relationship with the United Methodist Church. Nigerian cabinet members refused to meet with Emmanuel and his group unless that meeting was preceded by an apology. The reconciliation meeting was considered postponed and those clergy who wished to return to good fellowship were instructed to do so through their district superintendents. It was because of this abortive status of the meeting that delegates from two of the Nigerian conferences did not attend. Not only did Bishop Schol’s mission at reconciliation fail, he was also met with impassioned protests about homosexuality and proposed regionalization. (Video, Video) An established group rejecting Bishop Yohanna and committed to the UMC, led by Ande Emmanuel, complained about lack of access to Schol during the visit. Emmanuel stated those Nigerians aligned with Bishop Yohanna represent only 10% of the Methodists, a dubious claim. (Absalom Nuhu Kodei offers a detailed breakdown of the various factions here, indicating that 60 of the 400 Nigerian clergy side with Ande Emmanuel’s group.) The demonstrations accompanying Schol’s visit raised concerns in the Nigerian government which monitors religious unrest very closely. Bishop Schol was said to have been questioned at length by two different government agencies and accompanied by government officials during the remainder of his visit. Several Nigerian UMC Facebook sites and groups are changing to the GMC insignia. (Added 7-25-2024)
Post by Matt O’Reilly via Facebook. “Very excited to announce that Reconstructing Methodism is available for preorder from Francis Asbury Press/The Francis Asbury Society! Click through to learn more.” (Added 7-25-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Facebook). Jeffrey denied interviews with episcopal candidates: “Those of us who are episcopal nominees have been told that denominational leadership is developing a means of introducing us to the people of the GMC. We have been asked to refer all media requests to the GMC Communications Department.” (Added 7-25-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Walton via Conservative Evangelical Methodists Facebook. Widely varied and interesting comments on the legacy of Stanley Hauerwas as a theologian. (Added 7-25-2024)
“What’s Next for GM Youth?” via Heartland Conference. “While many churches are now left wondering where to send their youth for summer camps, the churches in western Oklahoma joined together to start the Next Summer Camp program for Global Methodist youth…” (Added 7-25-2024)
“Nine Candidates for Bishop in the GMC” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “This segment details recent developments in the GMC in light of historic concerns around the power of bishops. I am in favor of bishops, but only in certain conditions. I take a few minutes to review American Methodist history with respect to bishops, connecting that to what is happening in the UMC, and then speaking to what I hope for the GMC. Finally, to talk about my hopes and plans for helping the Convening Conference make informed votes with respect to episcopal candidates. Here’s the link for the document I reference: https://globalmethodist.org/wp-conten…” (Added 7-25-2024)
“Creating True Unity in the GMC – A Conversation with Helena Titus” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. “Helena M. Titus is a Presiding Elder in the Western States Provisional Conference of the GMC, serving under President Pro Tempore Mark Maddox. She is planting and leading a Global Methodist church in Los Angeles, of all places! I was curious what would draw a coastal black woman to become a visible and proud leader in the GMC, given the bad press that has been given to us.” (Added 7-25-2024)
“Brief Order for the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper” by Keith Sweat. “If this does nothing more than encourage a few to finally use something other than that atrocious liturgy in the UM Hymnal, then it is worth the effort. We have two thousand years of Christian liturgy. There is much of value that does not come from the UM publishing houses.” See related Facebook post. (Added 7-25-2024)
Video via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “Watch the HIGHLIGHTS of the launching of GMC Nueva Ecija, Philippines!” See also Empowering Academy Posts at the same site. (Added 7-24-2024)
“Abundant Joy After Loss” by Morgan Howe via GMC. “However, as hard as it was, many did walk away, and Beyers and most of the church’s staff followed. One week after the failed disaffiliation vote they all settled into a roomy gymnasium that a local Baptist church opened to them. On their first Sunday, 235 people were in attendance, and less than two months later, Wesley Methodist Church (a GM Church congregation) was chartered with 331 members and $1 million committed to mission and ministry. Beyers serves as the new congregation’s senior pastor and as a presiding elder in the North Georgia Conference of the GM Church.” (Added 7-24-2024)
Florida Hybrid Episcopal Model PPT as shared by Jay Therrell (Google Docs). Presentation on an alternative to the main Task Force/TLC proposal on GMC bishops. (Added 7-24-2024)
“Equipping the Laity in the GMC – A Conversation with Anthony McPhail” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Rev. Dr. Anthony McPhail is one of a few minds in the South Georgia Provisional Conference of the Global Methodist Church working to equip the laity to serve faithfully and capably in their local churches. He has designed a course that effectively edifies the people who enroll, which he describes in this conversation. We talk about the historic role of laity within Methodism, as well as the ways in which we need laity to step up right now.” (Added 7-24-2024)
Comparison Document: TLC and Florida Proposals on Episcopacy via PeopleNeedJesus.net (.docx). A mark-up comparison of the TLC Proposal on Episcopacy and the Florida Proposal. (Added 7-23-2024)
“Transitional Leadership Council Nominates Nine Persons for the Office of Two-Year Bishop if Proposed Episcopacy Legislation is Adopted” via GMC (PDF). “The TLC has determined that six part-time, two-year bishops will be elected in 2024. These six two-year bishops, if elected, would join Bishops Scott J. Jones and Mark J. Webb who would serve as full-time bishops from 2024-2026.” Nominated are: Ryan Barnett (MidTexas), John Beyers (North Georgia), Kimba Evariste (Democratic Republic of Congo), Jeffrey E. Greenway (Allegheny West), Leah Hidde-Gregory (MidTexas), Kenneth Levingston (Trinity), Carolyn Capers Moore (North Georgia), Gregory D. Stover (Allegheny West), Rob Townsend (Northeast) (Added 7-23-2024)
“Methodist Nature: Principled & Consistent” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. “With the formation of the Global Methodist Church, a reclaiming of the Methodist heritage is in order. Many voices are submitting ideas with respect to the particulars of Methodist identity. I have my own thoughts, which are being spelled out in a series of articles. This is the seventh of at least twelve.” (Added 7-23-2024)
“The GMC in Angola – A Conversation with Bartolomeu Sapalo” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “Angola is a country in the southwestern part of Africa. In this conversation, Rev. Dr. Bartolomeu Sapalo, who also serves on the Transitional Leadership Council of the Global Methodist Church, tells the history of Methodism in his country, and how he came to be a primary leader in bringing the GMC to his homeland. Lots of good history here, folks. Enjoy!” (Added 7-23-2024)
“How Determined Are We?” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Reversing decline is hard work that requires real determination. There are some historic Methodist documents that can guide the way. (Added 7-23-2024)
“Next Level Preaching Conference” via Trinity Conference. “This conference will feature plenary speakers offering instruction on best practices and give each participant an opportunity to preach multiple times and receive feedback in real time. The Conference opens and closes in worship, including a time of anointing for proclamation!” Monday, July 29, 2024 to Thursday, August 1, 2024, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University. (Added 7-22-2024)
“Prophet or Jackwagon?” via Storm the Gates (New Mid-Texas Conference Podcast). “This is our first episode! We’re grateful for the support of Rev. Dr. Leah Hidde-Gregory who joins us for our first two episodes. Lord willing, there will be many more to come. She shares about her upbringing and how God called her into pastoral ministry. A pivotal person in her story is the inspiration for the title. Stay tuned for weekly Monday episodes.” (Added 7-22-2024)
“Nashville Global Methodist Church officially opens for worship service” via Southwest Arkansas Radio. “Yesterday, KMTB and KNAS had the chance to interview Pastor Wade Edggers of the Nashville Global Methodist Church. Pastor Edggers shared that their congregation officially formed last Sunday and currently has about 58 members attending services.” (Added 7-22-2024)
“Chris Lohrstorfer | Reconstructing the Doctrine of Holiness (Reconstructing Methodism Session 10)” by Theology Project (YouTube). Newly released video from the Reconstructing Methodism conference. (Added 7-20-2024)
“Town turns out to honor firefighter slain in Trump assassination attempt” via USA Today. Photos from the Corey Comperatore funeral. Wrongly lists the church as United Methodist instead of Global Methodist. (Added 7-20-2024)
“Revving Up for GMC Convening Conference Coverage” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this segment, I go through some of the work Dianne Burnett, Director of Communications for the GMC, is doing to get media in order and to keep constituencies informed about how to faithfully participate in the Convening Conference. I also detail some of the work that Lamar Oliver, Petitions Secretary for the conference, is doing.” (Added 7-19-2024)
“Methodism’s American History – Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline with Kevin Watson” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). “MC, AME, AMEZ, UMC, Church of the Nazarene, the Wesleyan Church, and the Salvation Army are all a part of the same pan-Wesleyan family. Dr. Kevin Watson details the history of that movement with a helpful template (doctrine, spirit, and discipline) for understanding what unites these institutions. Kevin’s scholarship and communication gifts are a blessing to this movement that needs to sharpen in self-understanding for our time.” (Added 7-18-2024)
“Podcast Episode: Why Be South Georgia Global Methodist?” by David Donnan. “Podcast Season 3 Episode 2 we talk with Rev. Allen Cason about why he is a part of the South Georgia Conference Global Methodist Church.” (Added 7-18-2024)
“GMC Forming Missions Agency?” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “A recently published petition from the Mega Manila Conference of the GMC (reviewed in this segment) got my mind thinking on how the GMC could potentially engage missions work very differently from our previous tradition. In this segment, I talk through the current situation, some of the groundwork being laid, and what I see as the ideal situation to aim at.” (Added 7-18-2024)
Overheard: “Due to General Conference for the Global Methodist Church taking place at the same time as New Room, ticket sales for are a bit behind where they normally are. Because of this, Seedbed is offering a HUGE discount to our GMC community. Right now, tickets are just $199 with the promo code “GMC-NRC” – this is the same price as the early bird registration cost way back in the fall. New Room will return to The Woodlands (TX) this year and the dates are September 18-20.” (Added 7-18-2024)
“Matt Friedeman” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness Podcast. “Dr. Matt Friedeman has been a prof at Wesley Biblical Seminary since 1987, where he teaches evangelism and discipleship. He is the author of The 5Q Method of Discipleship, The Doctrine of Good Works, and Discipleship in the Home … all of which we’ll talk about today.” (Added 7-17-2024)
Tweet by Mark Tooley: “This new Global Methodist church in Arkansas began April 21 w/31 people & on July 14 welcomed 56 people into professing membership w/20 more attending. May their example replicate.” (Added 7-17-2024)
“Jeff Buck & Carolyn Moore Nominated As Candidates For Episcopacy” via Great Lakes Conference. “The Great Lakes Provisional Annual Conference delegation has begun preparing for the Global Methodist Church’s Convening General Conference in Costa Rica. As part of its work, the delegation is responsible for nominating candidates for the episcopacy. Today, they gladly announce the nomination of Rev. Jeff Buck and Rev. Dr. Carolyn Moore as episcopal candidates for the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 7-17-2024)
“Petition: Certification of Mission Organizations” by Luther Oconer et. al. via PDF. The authors share a petition that was deferred until 2026, but one they hope the body will nevertheless admit by vote at the convening General Conference. See also the petition disposition letter by Petition Secretary Lamar Oliver. (Added 7-17-2024)
“A Family and a Global Methodist Local Church Lose a Faithful Member in Assassination Attempt” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Corey’s love for Jesus was clear in the way he lived his life. He served his family, his church, his community, and his country [U.S. Army Reserves], and he did all that with a heart of service to the Lord,” said Rev. Jonathan Fehl, Pastor-in-Charge, at Cabot Church. “Whether it was taking part in a small group or lending his expertise to a building project, he was always helping the people around him.” (Added 7-16-2024)
“Tribute to Corey Comperatore” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. “Corey Comperatore was a Global Methodist member of the Cabot GMC in Pennsylvania. His daughter posted a tribute to him on Facebook that we spent a couple of minutes going over together.” (Added 7-15-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Announces Media Credential Application Process for Convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica” by Diane Burnett via PDF. GMC issuing media credentials for the convening General Conference. (Added 7-15-2024)
Post via Livingstone GMC (Facebook). A new church start in Illinois confirms four youth and receives their first appointed pastor, Paul Wier. (Added 7-15-2024)
“Bishop Jones Announces New President Pro Tem” via GMC (Mailchimp). Rick Enns appointed as the new President Pro Tem of the West Plains Conference, replacing Mike Schafer who will become the GMC’s Connectional Operations Officers upon the retirement of Keith Boyette. See also here. (Added 7-15-2024)
Post via South Georgia GMC (Facebook): “From powerful stories of the work of the Holy Spirit at Asbury — to Prayer and Praise and Prophecy — to a CALL to the church to be on fire for Jesus. Train. Lead. Go. Do. Just one more day of Annual Conference! God is Good!” [Photos] (Added 7-14-2024)
Post by Janet Lord via Facebook. Corey Comperatore, the bystander who lost his life during the assignation attempt on President Trump, was a member of Cabot Global Methodist Church (PA) where. Jonathan Fehl is the pastor. (Added 7-14-2024)
“LIVE: South Georgia GMC Ordination Service” via South Georgia Conference (YouTube). Livestream of the July 13 ordination service. (Added 7-13-2024)
“The Saga of the Episcopal Church – A Conversation with David Roseberry” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Global Methodists will benefit from this discussion of lessons from the split on the Episcopal Church. (Added 7-13-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). “With our Convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica just over two months away, we understand that many of you have questions. To provide clarity and guidance, Rev. Beth Ann Cook, the chairwoman of the Transitional Commission on General Conference, addresses some of the most frequently asked questions.” (Added 7-13-2024)
“Shoreline Newsletter: Friday, July 12, 2024” via Great Lakes Conference. Great Lakes Conference Announces Registration for Certified Lay Minister Program Courses. GM Church Announces 40 Day Season of Prayer and Fasting Ahead of Historic Convening General Conference. Disaster Response Network Being Formed. (Added 7-13-2024)
Volunteer Portal via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. Application for those interested in volunteering at the convening General Conference in Costa Rica. “Complete application by 7/19 for the best chance to be selected.” (Added 7-12-2024)
Overheard: “Called,” the 2024 Session of the South Georgia Annual Conference is underway, July 11-13 at Epworth by the Sea. See Pre-Conference Journal. See also Facebook Page. (Added 7-12-2024)
Upper Midwest GMC Conference Facebook Page. Recently created and includes information on flood recovery efforts. (Added 7-11-2024)
Overheard: Petitions Secretary Lamar Oliver: “On June 30, 2024, every petitioner was emailed a letter informing them of the disposition of their petition(s). We are in the process of perfecting a document that fulfills the promise made to inform the people of the GMC of the status of each petition, the rationale for the disposition of each petition, and also provides a breakdown of petitions by committee.” (Added 7-11-2024)
“What’s Next for 2-Year-Old Global Methodist Denomination?” by Ginny Baxter via beliefnet.com. “As of 2024, the Global Methodist denomination has nearly 4,500 congregations and an equal number of pastors, most of whom left the United Methodist Church. UMC’s General Conference voted to end disaffiliation in May, but that isn’t necessarily the end of the matter.” (Added 7-11-2024)
Overheard: From Petitions Secretary Lamar Oliver on the process to bring deferred petitions before the body of the General Conference: “Per the Plan of Organization and Covenant of Our Life Together (The Plan), as part of the opening session, the plenary will take action concerning the proposed limited agenda. While the plenary deliberates the proposed agenda, additional paragraphs or topics may be considered by a two-thirds majority of the General Conference delegates. Deferred petitions (those deemed not in the limited agenda as laid out in The Plan) will not be translated before the convening General Conference. Additionally, I also want to clarify that petitions deferred need no further action from the petitioner, as they have been properly submitted and substantiated. Substantiation for individual petitions means we were able to verify the ten co-signers by reaching out to them individually; substantiation for those submitted by a group consisted either of the minutes of the meeting where the petition was approved by the body or a letter from the chair and secretary of the same confirming the action of the group.” (Added 7-10-2024)
“‘Behold’ is Less than a Month Away!” via South Carolina Conference via MailChimp. August 8 & 9 with an August 7 clergy day. Bishop Scott Jones presiding and Mt. Horeb. Other news of the conference. (Added 7-10-2024)
“Advance GM Church’s Mission: Nominations for Connectional Commissions Due August 6” by Keith Boyette via GMC. A core value of the Global Methodist Church is to reduce the institutional footprint of the general church… However, during the GM Church’s convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, September 20-26, 2024, the denomination will adopt an entirely new general church organization to become effective by January 1, 2025, and the TLC’s service will come to an end.” Eight connectional commissions described. (Added 7-10-2024)
Overheard: Lamar Oliver, Petitions Secretary for the convening General Conference, was kind to offer the following clarification: “The only petitions not accepted this year were not accepted due to issues of standing by the petitioner or the inability to confirm co-signers. A petition deferred to the next General Conference differs from a petition ‘not being accepted.’ You are correct that the body can decide otherwise, but I think it would be helpful to inform your readers about how a body can take action to bring a deferred petition to the floor this year.” I will update this post with that process when I gain clarity on that. (Added 7-9-2024)
“Richard Allen and Patterns of Methodist Dysfunction” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In Kevin Watson’s “Doctrine, Spirit & Discipline: A History of the Wesleyan Tradition in the United States,” I finally read the story of Richard Allen and the events leading up to his creating of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. I couldn’t help but notice some similarities in the dysfunction he encountered and the more contemporary developments of The United Methodist Church.” (Added 7-9-2024)
REVIVE Series via WCA via YouTube: “What are Your Options? What’s Next for the WCA?” – Rev. Dr. Scott Field,” “Nehemiah Journey 2.0: Renew, Revitalize, Refresh!” – Rev. Jill Jackson-Sears,” “Part 2: Disciple-making Made Simple; How Disciples Make Disciples” – Steve Cordle,” “Recovering Scriptural Integrity and Wesleyan Wisdom” – Dr. David Watson,” “WCA Resource Recovery Renewal Initiative WIF” – Greg Brooks,” “Every Local Church Must Be a House of Prayer” – Rev. Dale Shunk,” “The Revelation of God & the Response of Humanity is Worship” – Rev. Dr. Tesia Mallory,” and “What’s Next and How Can We Help?” – Rev. Jan Dillard” (Added 7-9-2024)
Post via North Carolina GMC (Facebook). “The Wesleyan Quadrilateral is often quoted but we must note that the 4 poles of authority are NOT equally weighted. Scripture is primary with Tradition (which includes the creeds and practice of the Church over the last 2000 years) second and very distant 3rd is Reason and even more distant 4th, Experience.” [image] (Added 7-9-2024)
“The Methodist’s Duty: Wesley’s “Constant Communion” and the 21st Century Methodist” by James Mahoney via Firebrand Magazine. GMC elder calling for weekly communion as standard practice. (Added 7-9-2024)
“Mark Tooley” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness Podcast. “Today we talk to him about Methodism, democracy, the rise of Christian nationalism and anti-semitism, and of course, about holiness.” (Added 7-9-2024)
“Leah Hidde Gregory & Ryan Barnett Nominated for the Episcopacy by the Mid-Texas General Conference Delegation” via Mid-Texas Conference. (Added 7-8-2024)
“A Change for Andy, Theological Education, and the Podcast’s Future” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). Changes related to Andy’s new role as President of Wesley Biblical Seminary. (Added 7-8-2024)
Post via GMC of South Carolina (Facebook). “Looking for a GMC church in SC? As of July 1 we’ve added over 50! You can find a church using our map here: https://www.gmcofsc.org/find-a-church” (Added 7-8-2024)
“July 5, 2024 Weekly Live Stream” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Weekly round-up of GMC and Methodist topics. (Added 7-6-2024_
“Methodist Nature: Orderly and Disciplined” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. “With the formation of the Global Methodist Church, a reclaiming of the Methodist heritage is in order. Many voices are submitting ideas with respect to the particulars of Methodist identity. I have my own thoughts, which are being spelled out in a series of articles. This is the sixth of at least twelve.” (Added 7-6-2024)
Post via MidSouth GMC (Facebook). “Meet our 2024 ordinands! This group was ordained at our Annual Conference as elders and deacons. We are excited to see how God will work through this group for His purposes in the MidSouth and we want to thank each one of these people for their dedication in ministry and in education. The journey to ordination is an arduous one so we are grateful for their perseverance and faithfulness.” (Added 7-6-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). [photos] “Praise God for the blessings at these successful annual conference, bringing together the Great Lakes, Upper Midwest, and West Plains Conferences. Witness the spirit of fellowship and faith in action!” See also here. (Added 7-6-2024)
“Reconstructing Our Doctrine of Scripture” by Chris Bounds via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Toward a reclaimed view of Scripture in the Global Methodist Church. (Added 7-6-2024)
Post via GMC Qatar (Facebook). Photo Album “Mentoring and Discipleship 2024” (Added 7-6-2024)
“Seminary Shake-Ups: Tennant & Miller Take On New Roles” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “The world of Methodist seminaries, and seminaries that are seeking to cater to the Global Methodist Church, is experiencing some large shifts right now. This segment covers just a few developments worthy of note, with changes in presidential positions signaling sea change moments worthy of optimism.” (Added 7-4-2024)
“Bishop Webb Visits the Congo” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “My brother Daniel and I go through some recent content Bishop Webb posted to document his trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Then we talk a bit about how eager we are to form a truly global connexion in the GMC.”(Added 7-4-2024)
Post by MidSouth Conference via Facebook. [photo] “Meet the MidSouth Conference Cabinet!” (Added 7-4-2024)
Post by Florida Provisional Conference via Facebook. “Today the Florida General Conference Delegation had the privilege to have Dr. David Watson of United Theological Seminary teach us on constitutional issues coming before the General Conference in September. Thank you, David!” (Added 7-4-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb via Facebook. [photos] “During this trip, I witnessed and heard about the great sacrifices pastors and laity have made to be a part of the Global Methodist Church. I heard about the various forms of resistance and persecution they have encountered. I heard their dreams for building congregations, schools, and medical clinics. We talked about development projects like farming, and timbering that will help them to move toward sustaining the ministry they believe God is calling them to. It will not happen quickly, but the dependency on God’s spirit was evident. They are unashamed of the Gospel and exited to be a part of the Methodiste Globale.” See Video. (Added 7-3-2024)
“Celebrating the Mission Statement of the Global Methodist Church” by Keith Boyette. “It has been a great joy of mine to see how our local churches and provisional conferences have organized their work around our mission statement. Rooted in Scripture, embraced by Christian throughout the ages, and fired by a warm-hearted Wesleyan expression of the faith, Global Methodists are eager to make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly! All to the glory of God!” (Added 7-3-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Expanding to Mexico!” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “The Global Methodist Church is in a period of expansion. A lot of that expansion is from people leaving the United Methodist Church, but an increasing amount of it is coming from regions where the UMC wasn’t even present or active. It turns out that Mexico is about to be a new mission front for the GMC! In this short segment, we watch the public announcement of this new mission field, announced at the Trinity Conference of the GMC session last week. Enjoy and pray!” (Added 7-2-2024)
Post via Beeson Divinity School (Facebook). “Beeson Divinity School is pleased to announce the Reverend Timothy Tennent as our new Methodist Chair of Divinity! Tennent comes to Beeson after 15 years of serving as president of Asbury Theological Seminary. Read more about this exciting news here: https://bit.ly/4eKEvxL” (Added 7-2-2024)
Post by Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). [photos] Baptism photos and hopes to start an international outreach to Filipinos in the Dallas area. (Added 7-2-2024)
“Scripture and the Global Methodist Church” by Thomas H. McCall, Jason E. Vickers, and David F. Watson. Joint statements on the nature and use of Scripture that also allows for differences in approach. (Added 7-2-2024)
Post by Wesley Biblical Seminary via Facebook. “Dr. Andy Miller III has been unanimously elected President of Wesley Biblical Seminary. Chairman David Chandler announced Miller’s selection today on behalf of the board, making Miller the ninth permanent president in the seminary’s 50 year history of developing trusted leaders for faithful churches. Dr. Miller previously served as Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Learn more about Dr. Miller and read the full announcement at https://wbs.edu/news/miller-president/.” (Added 7-1-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb (Facebook). [photos] “Held the second gathering of the convening conference of the Democratic Republic of Congo Provisional Conference in Kinshasa. Kinshasa is the capital city of the DRC and home to 20 million people. Once again we were greeted at the airport with great hospitality. We had the opportunity to meet with the presiding elders of this area of the Congo and witness their commitment to Christ and the Church and hear about the opportunities and challenges the congregations and clergy face. The time of gathering with pastors and laity was a rich time of worship, and celebrating ministry. Two individuals were ordained deacons of the church. There is great excitement within the Global Methodist Church of Congo!” (Added 7-1-2024)
Post via Trinity Conference (Facebook) [photo] “57 members of our Annual Conference became Certified Lay Ministers (CLMs) in Shreveport, Louisiana on June 21, 2024. Congratulations on this accomplishment. We are grateful for your focused dedication in becoming ambassadors of the faith with this designation within the Global Methodist Church. Want to learn more? Stay tuned for tomorrow’s post on our Trinity Conference School of Ministry.” (Added 7-1-2024)
Post via GMC via Facebook. “The next season of the Nehemiah Journey is right around the corner! The journey begins on September 4 and the application deadline is August 1. Email nehemiahjourney@globalmethodist.org for more information or fill out the interest form at https://bit.ly/3z9hDaZ” (Added 7-1-2024)
“Chris Bounds | Reconstructing Our Doctrine of Scripture (Reconstructing Methodism Session 10)” via Theology Project (YouTube). Substantive description of the differences in approaches to Scripture found in the Global Methodist Church. Newly released video from the April “Reconstructing Methodism” event. (Added 7-1-2024)
“Methodist Nature: Connexional & Accountable: Why Independent Methodists are an Oxymoron” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (Substack). “If the Global Methodist Church is to seriously consider again spreading scriptural holiness across the land and reforming the nations by grassroots faithful living, then it would be fictitious to hope for such a thing without reclaiming connexionalism.” (Added 7-1-2024)
Post by Marcel Kakudji via Facebook. More photos from Bishop Webb’s visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo. (Added 7-1-2024)
“Well Done, Good and Faithful Servants” by Jay Therrell via Facebook. “The role of a presiding elder is hard – really hard. Having served as a district superintendent in our former denomination, I can tell you that supervisory ministry isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a combination of trying to pastor pastors, coach leaders, answer questions (big and small), cheerlead, encourage, attend cabinet meetings, make appointments, serve on conference teams, and hold pastors and churches accountable to scripture, our mission, and the Book of Doctrines and Discipline.” (Added 7-1-2024)
Post by Good News Methodist Church, Aklan (Philippines) via Facebook. Quality photos of a GMC church in the Philippines celebrating their first anniversary. (Added 6-30-2024)
“Matt O’Reilly | Reconstructing Preaching (Reconstructing Methodism Session 9)” via Theology Project. Newly released video from the Reconstructing Methodism Conference in April. (Added 6-30-2024)
Post by Marcel Kakudji via Facebook. [Photos] More images from Bishop Mark Webb’s visit to the Democrat Republic of Congo. (Added 6-29-2024)
Post by Alabama – Emerald Coast Conference (Facebook). [photos] “Our President Pro Tem, Dr Lester Spencer, is currently attending the Convening Annual Conferences of our Covenant Mission Partner, the Democratic Republic of Congo! He had the privilege to preach on Friday morning in Kamina at the first of three Convening Annual Conferences being held in the DRC! At the conclusion of this conference gathering in Kamina, they will fly to Kinsasha in West Congo and then to Kindu in East Congo for the final 2 Annual Conferences. He is traveling with Bishop Mark Webb and the President Pro Tem of the Congo, Dr Kimba Evariste as well as Rev Upendo Likondi, the President Pro Tem of the brand new GMC Provisional Annual Conference in Tanzania!” (Added 6-29-2024)
“First Annual Women’s Gathering” via the Mississippi – West Tennessee Conference (Facebook). August 3, 2024 at Lewis Memorial in Calhoun City. (Added 6-29-2024)
Video by R. Scott Griffin (YouTube). A Heartland Conference Presiding Elder plans a meeting in July 20 to establish a GMC presence in the St. Louis area. There is a Google Form in the comments. (Added 6-29-2024)
“Global Methodist Church ditches annual clergy appointments” by Greg Garrison via AL.com. “The Global Methodist Church, made up mostly of churches that disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church, has steered away from some United Methodist practices such as its annual clergy appointment system.” (Added 6-29-2024)
“General Conference Legislative Committees: What Are They and How Are They Formed” by Dianne Burnett via SotheWorldWillKnow.org. “These committees, composed of delegates to the convening General Conference, are designed to ensure comprehensive and diverse representation, reflecting both lay and clergy voices from across our global community.” (Added 6-28-2024)
Post via North Alabama GM Conference (Facebook). [photos] “2024 Conference for the North Alabama Provisional Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church has had an awesome first session this morning. Clergy and laity have gathered to worship, fellowship and pray.” See also videos: Opening Worship, Session Two (General Conference Info, Q&A at 30:00), Session Three. (Added 6-28-2024)
“Shoreline Newsletter: June 28, 2024” via Great Lakes GM Conference. The Great Lakes Conference Turns One! Disaster Response Network Being Formed. GM Church Clergy Benefits Transition. Annual Conference Session Photo Album. (Added 6-28-2024)
Post by Marcel Kakudji via Facebook. [Photo of Bishop Webb and other clergy] “OPENING SERVICE OF 1ST SESSION ANNUAL CONFERENCE GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH KAMINA POOL.
512 DELEGATES ALREADY PRESENT” Democratic Republic of Congo. See also here. (Added 6-28-2024)
“Why Most Churches Don’t Do Hard Discipleship” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “This is just a few minutes of me reflecting on these questions that actually impact all of our churches. There is a reason why churches are drawn to cheap grace and surface level engagement. It reveals a great lack that I fear can be found in most churches of all denominations.” (Added 6-28-2024)
Post by Nicolas Munongo via Facebook. Details and photos from Bishop Webb’s visit to Congo. (Added 6-28-2024)
Overheard: Petitions related to the mission statement of the GMC are not being accepted because they are not in keeping with the limited scope of the Convening General Conference. The body, however, can decide otherwise. (Added 6-28-2024)
“Five Reasons for Hope in the Emerging Global Methodist Church” by Cambron Wright via Substack. “Some observations after the MidSouth Annual Conference of the GMC (and what I want the GMC mission statement to be, if anyone’s asking)” (Added 6-28-2024)
“The Aftermath of the United Methodist General Conference with Drew McIntyre | Episode 187” via Church & Main Podcast (YouTube). “Amidst these sweeping changes, we tackle the structural complexities arising from the schism within the United Methodist Church and the inception of the Global Methodist Church. How might the loss of diverse voices and perspectives shape the future of both denominations? Drawing parallels to political divides, we reflect on the potential for new ideological conflicts or, conversely, the possibility for renewed missional focus.” (Added 6-27-2024)
“Kevin Watson” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness Podcast. Talking about his newly released book: “Doctrine, Spirit and Discipline: A History of the Wesleyan Traditional in the United States.” (Added 6-27-2024)
ICYMI: “April 18, 2024 Show with Matthew Sichel on ‘The New Global Methodist Church’” via Iron Sharpens Iron Podcast. Interview on the GMC. (Added 6-27-2024)
“Voices of Trinity Podcast” via Trinity GM Conference. Episode One: “President Pro Tem, Rev. Jim Welch; Executive Officer, Rev. Jason Burnham; and Chair of the Trinity Conference Strategic Planning Committee, Rev. Drew Essen.” Episode Two (two parts): “Visiting with Dr. Jason Vickers (Parts 1 & 2)” and Episode Three: “Church Planting with Jeff Olive.” (Added 6-27-2024)
Post by Friends of the GMC in Nebraska (Facebook). An August 23-25 event in Lexington, NE, “Lessons from the Wilderness,” will feature Bishop Mark Webb. Registration closes August 13. (Add 6-27-2024)
Video via MidSouth Conference (Facebook). The June 24 Ordination Service with Bishop Jones ordaining and Leah Hidde-Gregory preaching (President, Mid Texas Conference). (Added 6-27-2024)
Video by South Carolina GMC (Facebook). Nice quality video announcing the breakout sessions for “Behold,” the August 8-9 conference. See also E-mail. (Added 6-27-2024)
Post and Post by GMC Qatar. Photos from recent events. (Added 6-27-2024)
Post by GMC Philippines (Facebook). “The Empowering Academy is our official school of ministry to help our pastors fulfill course requirements towards ordination in the Global Methodist Church. The Academy is also open to all clergy and laypersons (including non-GMC) who wish to avail the courses for continuing education, or for deeper learning about the faith.” (Added 6-27-2024)
Post by Northeast GMC Conference. “Join us on Tuesday, July 9th at 6:30 PM for the first Live Q&A with President Pro Tem Steve Taylor as we discuss ‘The Structure and Leadership of the Global Methodist Church and Northeast Conference’.” [zoom link] (Added 6-27-2024)
“Should the Church of the Nazarene and the Global Methodist Church merge?” by Rob Prince. “Certainly there are obstacles to a Global Methodist/Nazarene merger. But what better time to discuss such a move than before the Global Methodists church is fully established and when the Church of the Nazarene could use a renewed vision.” (Added 6-26-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb (Facebook). [photos] “Arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Excited to be a part of three gatherings across the country over the next 7 days to officially convene the DRC Provisional Annual Conference. I’m grateful for the leadership of Rev. Kimba Evariste who serves as the president pro tem. I’m joined by Rev. Lester Spencer president pro tem of the Alabama Emerald Coast Provisional Annual Conference, a partner conference with the DRC and Simon Mafunda our coordinator in Africa. Also blessed to spend time with Bishop Subi the Anglican bishop of the Katanga diocese, a great friend of the GMC in the DRC.” (Added 6-26-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). Video summarizing Bishop Jones’ and Mary Lou’s 47 day international trip this past spring. (Added 6-26-2024)
“A Very Brief History of the Global Methodist Church” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “…In the long run, what initially looked like it would be a rare, orderly and amicable separation of a major Protestant denomination, ended up taking more time than the authors and many supporters of the Protocol intended. Still, thousands of people persevered amidst the challenges of the Covid pandemic, the serial postponements of the UM Church’s General Conference, and the vagaries of their annual conferences’ conditions for exiting the UM Church. Pastors and rank-and-file members in thousands of local churches organized, informed themselves, voted, and sacrificially gave of their time, talent, and resources to build the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 6-26-2024)
“GMC President Pro Tem: Jay Therrell, Florida Conference” via City Lights Podcast. “On Today’s episode, I interviewed President Pro Tem of the Florida Conference, Jay Therrell. Jay talked about the passion for saving souls, awakening, and the upcoming convening conference of the Global Methodist Church. My favorite piece was clarity about the legislation concerning Bishops and the future of deployments for clergy.” (Added 6-25-2024)
“Kevin Watson: Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline” via Spirit & Truth Podcast. An interview with Kevin Watson on the release of his new history of the Methodist movement in America. (Added 6-25-2024)
“Paul Lawler | Reconstructing Our Global Mission (Reconstructing Methodism Session 7)” via Theology Project. Newly released video from the Reconstructing Methodism event in April. (Added 6-25-2024)
“A Thirty-Year Look-Back at the Biggest Changes in the American Church” via Church Answers. Thom and Sam Rainer give a shout-out to the GMC in this summary of mega-trends in the U.S. church. “The fastest growing denomination in the world.” (Added 6-25-2024)
“Avoiding Structural Stupidity in Post-Schism Methodism” by Drew McIntyre via Firebrand Magazine. “In both the UMC and GMC, should the most extreme voices run the show, the mission of the church could be swallowed up as discipling is confused with ideological formation. In short, without the ballast of opposition, both bodies should be on guard against succumbing to the gravitational pull of their respective sides of the culture wars. The world has no need for forms of Methodism that are simply baptized political action committees masquerading as churches.” (Added 6-25-2024)
Tweet by Drew McIntyre: “My latest @FirebrandMag piece coming out tomorrow will feature insights from @carmenjoyimes and @JonHaidt, raising the question of unity, diversity, and structural stupidity in post-schism Methodism. #umc #gmc” (Added 6-25-2024)
“Angela Pleasants | Reconstructing Methodism as a Multi-Ethnic Kingdom Movement (Session 8)” by Theology Project via YouTube. “In this video, Rev. Angela Pleasants draws on her experience working in cross-racial contexts to cast a vision for the Global Methodist Church as a multi-ethnic kingdom movement.” (Added 6-25-2024)
Post via GMC (Facebook). “The Global Methodist Church is seeking an experienced and dynamic Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer to lead and manage the financial and accounting operations of the Church, guiding its financial strategy, planning and maintaining its fiscal stability in a complex, international environment. As a key member of our leadership team, the chosen candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the mission and ministry of the Church, ensuring financial viability, accountability, and sound, faith-based decision making.” Job Description. Position Link. (Added 6-24-2024)
Overheard: Petitions to the Convening General Conference are now in the hands of the translators and should be available within the next few days. Some 120-130 petitions were eliminated either for signature issues or addressing matters outside the limited scope of the conference. (Added 6-24-2024)
“Opening Worship – Annual Conference of MidSouth PAC of the GMC” by MidSouth GMC (Facebook). Sunday night opening worship of the MidSouth Annual Conference, held at Fairview Church in Maryville, TN. (Added 6-24-2024)
“2024 Annual Conference Playlist” via Trinity Conference (YouTube). Videos from the 2024 annual conference in Louisiana are being shared here. (Added 6-22-2024)
“Powerful Moments at West Plains Annual Conference: A Reflection” by Kevin Watson. “Preaching and teaching at a place like the West Plains Conference is an enormous privilege. It still surprises me to be asked to speak in places like this. I love doing it and it is a blessing to me. Every time, I think, I can’t believe I get to do this! God has been so kind to me and I am thankful.” (Added 6-21-2024)
Tweet by Bob Kaylor: “The Commission on Doctrine, Discipleship, and Just Ministry has submitted a petition to the GC to create a working group for developing a new Book of Worship to be presented to the 2026 GC.” (Added 6-21-2024)
“Bill Arnold | Reconstructing Theological Education (Reconstructing Methodism Session 5)” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project (YouTube). “What if education isn’t just information transfer? What if education is really about formation? And what if theological education is ultimately about theological formation? In this video, Dr. Bill Arnold dives in to the theology of theological education and its implications for the formation of clergy and the future health of the church.” (Added 6-21-2024)
Hybrid Episcopal Model via Florida Conference. As described by Walter Fenton: ““Our model dispenses with the need for a nomination and election process prior to and at the convening General Conference,” said the Rev. Jay Therrell, president pro tem of the Florida Provisional Annual Conference and the leader of its delegation to the convening General Conference. “We are aware of the legislation put forward by the TLC and are deeply grateful for its work; we have adopted some of it. However, the bulk of our petition borrows heavily from the Wesleyan Covenant Association’s, Draft Book of Doctrines and Discipline. We felt it was wise to have more than one model to consider and perfect.” (Added 6-21-2024)
“Proposed Process Offered for Nominating and Electing Interim Bishops” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “According to the document, until July 15, 2024, the TLC will receive the names of recommended candidates from which it will assemble a list of nominees for the two-year interim bishops positions. To recommend a potential nominee, GM Church members should obtain the permission of the person they are recommending for consideration and then file a biographical sketch not exceeding 500 words for that person.” (Added 6-21-2024)
North Carolina Annual Conference Webpage. Meeting June 20-22 in Winston Salem. Theme: “We Press On.” (Added 6-20-2024)
Trinity Annual Conference Webpage. Meeting June 20-22 in Shreveport, LA. Theme: “Even Greater Things.” (Added 6-20-2024)
“Sterling Allen” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness Podcast. “Dr. Sterling Allen currently serves as the Director of Music and Worship Arts at Good Shepherd Global Methodist Church in Cypress, Texas. He holds multiple degrees in music, including Doctor of Worship in liturgics and hymnology from the Webber Institute in Florida. He has sung as an operatic baritone internationally and is a recognized Charles Wesley Scholar specializing in soteriological-lyrical theology. We’re talking to him today about a his latest publication, a hymnal of Charles Wesley hymns.” (Added 6-20-2024)
“What If the Christian Sexual Ethic Becomes a Feature, Not a Bug?” by Daniel Darling via Christianity Today. “Evangelicals tend to assume our sexual ethic is deeply unpopular. But the wind may be shifting as thought leaders increasingly declare Christianity a cultural asset.” (Added 6-20-2024)
“On Baptism” by Art Collins. A GMC presiding elder gets questions on baptism from churches considering joining and wrote this as an explanation of the GMC positions on infant baptism, re-baptism, etc. See also Part Two. (Added 6-20-2024)
“Madeline Carrasco Henners | Reconstructing a Holy Spirit-Driven Movement (Session 4)” via Theology Project (YouTube). Newly released video from April’s Reconstructing Methodism Conference. (Added 6-19-2024)
Tweet by Ryan Danker: “Call me old fashioned, but I’m not a huge fan of modernist takes on Scripture focused on fallibility, errors, or its lack thereof. Give me a bible that’s true, fully inspired, read with saints both quick and dead, and a means of grace to encounter the One of whom it speaks.” Matt O’Reilly pushes back. (Added 6-19-2024)
Post by Art Collins via Facebook. “…At the same time, we are getting a lot of retreads applying with experience in a number of other evangelical denominations. They’ve heard we’re open for business, and we represent an opportunity for them to do their thing in a new environment. But their thing is not new, and it’s not ours. They have no Wesleyan-Arminian theology nor any experience in Methodist churches, and they don’t think they need any of either.” (Added 6-19-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Expands with New Conferences in Central Africa, Tanzania, and Panama” by Dianne Burnett via GMC. “The formation of new provisional annual conferences outside the United States is a complex process. A leadership team in a country must initially be identified to lead the effort. Application must be made to the national government to recognize the Global Methodist Church as a religious entity. Recognition can take months.” (Added 6-19-2024)
“Andrew Thompson | Reconstructing Ordination (Reconstructing Methodism Session 3)” via Theology Project (YouTube). “In this video, Dr. Andrew Thompson traces the (peculiar) history of ordination in the Methodist tradition and sketches a way forward in our understanding of what it means to be set apart for vocational ministry. Dr. Andrew Thompson is Lead Pastor at Tulsa First Methodist Church in Oklahoma. He is an ordained elder in the Global Methodist Church and the author of The Means of Grace: Traditioned Practice for Today’s World (https://amzn.to/3XsA5FJ).” (Added 6-18-2024)
“Should Wesleyans Embrace the Lausanne Covenant?” by Murray Vasser via Firebrand Magazine. Rejoinder to Ken Collins on the use of “inerrant” as a description of Scripture by a Professor of New Testament at Wesley Biblical Seminary. Hopes the GMC will affirm inerrancy and Asbury will join the Evangelical Theological Society. (Added 6-18-2024)
“Jason Vickers | Theological Foundations for a New Denomination (Reconstructing Methodism Session 1)” via Theology Project (YouTube). Newly released video from the April event. “If you’re going to build a denomination, it needs to be build on a strong theological foundation. We learned this lesson the hard way in the United Methodist Church, which endeavored to build, not on theological standards, but on a shared method. The ecclesial house built on that foundation has now come down. In this video, Dr. Jason Vickers offers a vision of the Global Methodist Church that is theologically well-founded.” (Added 6-17-2024)
Post by Beverly Maddox via Facebook. Report of the first worship service of Five Rivers Church in Alabama with 175 people present. (Added 6-17-2024)
Post by Albert Maganga via Facebook. “This is one of the GMC in Tanzania we have seen and proceeding to see more miracles of church planting in Tanzania after receiving a provisional conference a few weeks ago. It’s located in Geita region Hallelujah!!!” (Added 6-17-2024)
Post by Tom Newman via Facebook. “Please pray for the NC PAC as we prepare for our Annual Conference next week in Winston Salem. Ask that God’s voice be heard clearly above any and all other competing voices and that we rush to honor and obey God’s calling on our lives, both independently and corporately…” (Added 6-17-2024)
Post by North Carolina Provisional Conference via Facebook. President David Banks called June 16 a day of prayer and fasting for annual conference. (Added 6-17-2024)
Post by North Carolina Prov. Conference via Facebook. “The Inspiring Story of Solid Rock Global Methodist Church by Bryan Huffman. (Added 6-17-2024)
“Celebrating Father’s Day with Stories of Fatherly Love in the Bible” by Dianne Burnett, Executive Director of Communications (Facebook). “As we contemplate these stories, let us be inspired to embody these virtues in our own lives. We can nurture our relationships with our children and honor the divine example of fatherly love found in the Scriptures.” (Added 6-17-2024)
“Methodist Nature: Holy First, Compassionate Second” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. “A modern reclamation of Methodism must insist that care of the poor is an outgrowth, not the foundation, of holiness.” (Added 6-15-2024)
“Keith Boyette on What to Expect at the Convening Conference (Reconstructing Methodism)” by Theology Project (YouTube). “Plenty of folks have lots of questions about the Global Methodist Church Convening Conference to be held in Costa Rica in September 24. What will happen? Why is there a limited agenda? How are delegates distributed? Why Costa Rica? Can observers attend? Are there opportunities beyond the business meetings? In this video from the Reconstructing Methodism Conference, Rev. Keith Boyette explains what you can expect from the Convening Conference and answers questions from the audience.” Newly released video from the April 26-27, 2024 event. (Added 6-15-2024)
“Bishop Scott Jones | Reconstructing the Office of Bishop (Reconstructing Methodism)” via Theology Project (YouTube). “One of the major reasons the United Methodist Church came apart was dysfunction on the Council of Bishops. If the Global Methodist Church is going to have healthy episcopal oversight, then we’ve got to reconstruct the role of bishops. In this video, Bishop Scott Jones offers a vision of bishops as spiritual leaders and points the way to what increased accountability will look like in the GMC.” References “Questions for Independent Church” Newly released video from the April 26-27, 2024 event. (Added 6-15-2024)
“June 14, 2024 Weekly Live Stream” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “This is a time when I consider key developments over the last week in the world and the church, in particular those things impacting the Methodist tradition. Northeast Jurisdiction bars exits, GMC recruiting more clergy. (Added 6-15-2024)
“Nominations for General Conference Administrative Committees Due July 22” by Diane Burnett via GMC (E-Mail PDF). “One key element occurs behind the scenes in the work of six administrative committees established by the Plan of Organization and Covenant of our Life Together. These committees are elected by the Transitional Leadership Council and are composed of both clergy and lay delegates from across the Church to reflect its commitment to diverse and representative leadership. Below is an overview of the primary administrative committees and their roles…” (Added 6-14-2024)
“Preparing for the GMC General Conference (Part 4)” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “In this section, we finish the portion dealing with how Robert’s Rules of Order is going to be utilized, get into decorum, and wrap this whole segment up. Lots of opportunities for audience feedback on this one. We look forward to seeing what y’all have to say.” (Added 6-14-2024)
West Plain Annual Conference Webpage. June 14-15 at Lake Ridge Methodist Church in Lubbock, TX. (Added 6-13-2024)
Post by Mississippi West Tennessee GM Conference. Ordinand Photo from most recent conference. (Added 6-13-2024)
“The Gifts of Wesleyan Theology” by Ryan Danker via Juicy Ecumenism. Wesley said that, “Our main doctrines, which include all the rest, are three—that of repentance, of faith, and of holiness” (The Principles of a Methodist Farther Explained). Later in his ministry he wrote to Robert Carr Brackenbury saying that Christian perfection, or holiness of heart and life, “is the grand depositum which God has lodged with the people called Methodists; and for the sake of propagating this chiefly God appeared to have raised us up.” (Added 6-12-2024)
“Creating a Culture of Pastoral Call” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “At this juncture, finding people to serve in the church is a challenging yet exciting opportunity, especially in some geographical regions,” said Bishop Mark Webb, who as a district superintendent and an episcopal leader in the UM Church and now in the GM Church, has worked for decades to find pastors to fill pulpits. “Despite the struggles we face, I’m confident the God who calls the church will continue to equip the church with leaders for the future.” (Added 6-12-2024)
“Delegates elected, Deacons and Elders ordained” via Shoreline (Great Lakes Conference Newsletter). This wrap-up of annual conference includes the names of those elected to General Conference and the names of the 44 ordinands. (Added 6-11-2024)
“Tethering Christians to the Holy Spirit – A Conversation with Peter Bellini” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Rev. Dr. Peter Bellini is the Professor of Church Renewal & Evangelization at United Theological Seminary, as well as a Global Methodist Elder. He has a broad experience in life, both in the local church and in the academy. He as published a good amount of content on the Holy Spirit. I was encouraged to seek him out by Dr. David Watson, who thought Bellini could help me to figure out a helpful posture towards the growing charismatic influence in Methodism. Bellini didn’t disappoint.” (Added 6-11-2024)
“Team Caffeine | June 10, 2024” via People Need Jesus. This subscriber-only e-mail contains some reflections on the new Chief Operating Officer, Inerrancy debate, and international UMC exits. (Added 6-10-2024)
“Updated Plan of Organization for General Conference” via GMC. Updated from an earlier version. Source. (Added 6-10-2024)
“Opportunities and Challenges for the GMC” via Firebrand Podcast. David Watson, Scott Kisker, and Maggie Ulmer discuss the state of things in the Global Methodist Church. (Added 6-10-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. “From these captivating images, it’s evident that the Lord’s presence was felt deeply at the Allegheny West and Heartland Annual Conferences. Grateful for the blessings and spiritual growth that unfolded during this incredible weekend.” (Added 6-10-2024)
Great Lakes GMC YouTube Channel. Includes sessions of the just-completed 2024 annual conference. (Added 6-8-2024)
“Predictions About the Future of the Christian Church” via Christianity Today Podcast (YouTube). Russell Moore interviews Ryan Burge about the future of denominations and U.S. Christianity more generally. At about 34:20, he mentions an encouraging visit to Asbury. (Added 6-8-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb (Facebook). “I was blessed to spend the last few days with clergy and laity of the Great Lakes Provisional Conference of the Global Methodist Church. It was a gathering of prayer, passionate worship, spiritual healing, teaching and fellowship filled with laughter and joy. 44 individuals were ordained as deacons and elders of the church. I give thanks for the leadership of Rev. Dr. Scott Pattison, President pro tem, the presiding elders and other conference leaders as they shape a culture that equips congregations to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and action.” (Added 6-8-2024)
Post via Global Methodist Church (Facebook). “We’re excited to announce that the Central Republic of Africa Provisional Annual Conference is now part of the Global Methodist Church family! This marks another significant step towards unity and diversity within our global community. Together, we’ll continue to share love, faith, and hope across borders. Stay tuned for more updates as we journey together!” (Added 6-8-2024)
Post by Chad Yoder via Facebook. A denominational skeptic reflects on the Great Lakes annual conference session. (Added 6-8-2024)
“Delegate Allocation Worksheet” via GMC. Interesting, too, because it reports the number of congregations and clergy per annual conference. 479 churches added between March 1 and June 1.(Added 6-7-2024)
“Additional Delegates Allocated for Convening General Conference” by Dianne Burnett via GMC. “Transitional Leadership Council (TLC) of the Global Methodist Church (GM Church ) has approved a second allocation of 104 delegates to the Convening General Conference being held in San Jose, Costa Rica, September 20-26, 2024…” (Added 6-7-2024)
Post via Great Lakes Conference (Facebook). The Great Lakes delegation to the convening General Conference is listed. (Added 6-7-2024)
Post by Andy Miller III via Facebook. “Once again, there is some online chatter about Wesleyans and inerrancy. I am thankful the folks at Firebrand have asked Murray Vasser to respond to an article they published today. Here are two resources people interested in the subject may find helpful. First, I recorded a podcast with WBS faculty last summer on this subject. Second, for a deep dive, see Steve Blakemore’s WTJ article. See specifically his comments on ontology and epistemology.” (Added 6-7-2024)
“Preparing for the GMC General Conference (Part 3)” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). “In this section, we deal primarily with the procedures we can anticipate being in place, especially some of the particulars around Robert’s Rules and voting. As always, we sorta trip through the material and do a decent job eventually constructing a proper impression. We are pleased with this document and are optimistic about the gathering that it will make possible.” (Added 6-7-2024)
“The Bible Is Holy–the inerrancy debate” by Keith Sweat. “Reasonable people disagree as to whether the Convening Conference of the Global Methodist Church should commit to Scripture as infallible and/or inerrant. The arguments give me a headache. You better fasten your seatbelt if your mind is going to take some of those hairpin curves in the debates both pro and con. This is my short and simple appeal to a canonical approach to a Holy Bible.” (Added 6-6-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. “Exciting News Alert! We’re thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the Tanzania Provisional Annual Conference as they join the Global Methodist Church family! This expansion marks a beautiful moment of unity and diversity within our community.Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this journey together! #GlobalMethodistChurch #TanzaniaConference #UnityInDiversity” (Added 6-6-2024)
“Large Church Leadership in the Global Methodist Church – A Conversation with Rev. Jeremy Smith” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “Jeremy is the Lead Pastor of Crosspoint Church, a multi-site church with 6 campuses across Northwest Florida… In this conversation, I ask Jeremy about the decision to join the Global Methodist Church (GMC) after disaffiliating from the United Methodist Church. We discuss the reasons for joining the GMC, the influence of denominational history, and the importance of accountability and trust.” (Added 6-6-2024)
“Annual Conference kicks off with an empowering first day” by Great Lakes Conference via Shoreline Newsletter. A wrap-up of Day One of the Great Lakes Conference’s first regular session. General Conference delegate elections to be held Friday. Videos of presentations by Scott Pattison, Tracee Swank, and Carolyn Moore included. (Added 6-6-2024)
“Racial Segregation in Modern Methodism – A Conversation with Ambassador Blango Ross” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “As you folks know, I have wanted the Global Methodist Church to be able to make good on the hopes of so many to become a truly multiethnic, global sign of Christ’s presence and power. Blango, clergy from the UMC’s Baltimore Washington Annual Conference, was willing to help me think through these things, drawing heavily on his decades of experience in ministry and life.” (Added 6-5-2024)
“GMC Announces Mike Schafer as New COO” via West Plains Conference GMC. The incoming COO of the GMC shares the back story with the West Plains Conference. (Added 6-5-2024)
“Rev. Mike Schafer Selected as GM Church’s First Connectional Operations Officer” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “After an extensive search process, the Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council confirmed at its Monday, June 3, 2024, meeting that the Rev. Mike Schafer will serve as the denomination’s first Connectional Operations Officer.” Schafer is President of the West Plains conference and will assume duties after Keith Boyette’s retirement at General Conference. He will have a humbler job description than Boyette. (Added 6-5-2024)
“A Polite Challenge to the Collins Article on Inerrancy” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Dr. Ken Collins published a piece on inerrancy today through Firebrand, which I found to be concerning for a number of reasons. Primary among them is how it makes discourse around this important topic more difficult. It is possible for people of good faith to be on both sides of this one. It is important that they understand one another. This is an attempt on my part to read through it and engage, hopefully in a helpful way, with the ideas presented therein.” (Added 6-5-2024)
“Advancing Itinerancy: Why (and How) Global Methodism Needs to Reclaim a Moribund Relic” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. “The GMC is starting off culturally very similar to the UMC. We want to head in a direction that is more dynamic, more faithful and holy, more effectively engaged with the world. We want to burn hotter, move more nimbly, and do powerful things in the name of Jesus.” (Added 6-5-2024)
“Should Wesleyans Embrace a Doctrine of Inerrancy? [Firebrand Big Read]” by Kenneth Collins via Firebrand Magazine. “With the Global Methodist Church planning for its founding conference in September in Costa Rica, many of its members are already thinking through the importance of Scripture for the wide-ranging life of the church…” (Added 6-4-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. “Big News: We’re thrilled to announce the addition of the Panama Provisional Annual Conference to the Global Methodist Church family! As we expand our reach and embrace diverse communities, we’re excited to welcome our brothers and sisters from Panama. Together, we’ll continue to spread love, faith, and hope across the globe. Stay tuned for more updates as we journey forward together!” (Added 6-3-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook: Seeking musicians for the General Conference in Costa Rica. (Added 6-3-2024)
Post by Greg West via Facebook. Link to the Virginia Annual Conference, May 31-June 1, 2024. (Added 6-1-2024)
“Shoreline: June 1, 2024” via Great Lakes Conference. Information on “Empowered,” the 2024 annual conference at Indiana Wesleyan University on June 5-7. (Added 6-1-2024)
Video Post by Global Methodist Church (Facebook). Celebrating four months until Costa Rica Convening General Conference. (Added 5-31-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Receives 252 Petitions for San Jose Conference” via GMC (Email PDF). “The petitions filed represent a diverse array of voices, with 45 different petitioners contributing to the dialogue. Individual members of the Global Methodist Church have submitted 53 petitions, while local churches have submitted 32 petitions. It’s noteworthy that less than half of the petitions come from the Transition Leadership Council (TLC).” (Added 5-31-2024)
“Freemasonry & Secret Societies in the GMC” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Chance Robinson published an article in Firebrand a few weeks ago, outlining his personal history in the Freemasons and his theological clarity that secret societies are at odds with the Christian faith. In this conversation, Chance tells more of his story, and we try to flesh out why exactly secret fraternal organizations are such a threat to the Christian faith. We end in a conversation about idolatry more broadly.” (Added 5-31-2024)
“Preparing For The GMC General Conference (Part 2)” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “In this segment, TJ and I report on the petitions we filed and some of the feedback we got. We also get some more details about how the legislative committees are going to work in the months leading up to General Conference. We finally read a good deal of that guiding document for the Convening Conference session, which gives a lot more information about the nuts and bolts of how things will work before and during (and after) the conference session.” (Added 5-30-2024)
Livestream Link via Heartland Conference (YouTube). “Witness Boldy” is the Theme of the conference held in Joplin, MO, May 30-June 1, 2024. (Added 5-30-2024)
“Budget Presentation by Rev. Brad Kirk, Chair of the Heartland Committee on Finance” via Heartland Conference (YouTube). Jeffrey Rickman interviews Brad Kirk on the day before the Heartland Conference convenes. (Added 5-30-2024)
“The Need for Biblical Inerrancy” by Murray Vasser via World. Assistant professor of New Testament at Wesley Biblical Seminary offers five reasons the GMC should embrace the biblical inerrancy. See also here. (Added 5-30-2024)
Post by Jeff Greenway via Facebook. “Good news! Friends, On Tuesday, the Transitional Leadership Council authorized and approved the beginning of operations of three new provisional annual conferences in the Global Methodist Church: Tanzania Provisional Annual Conference, Central African Republic Provisional Annual Conference, Panama Provisional Annual Conference. In Christ, Keith Boyette, Transitional Connectional Officer.” (Added 5-29-2024)
“Podcast #27: The Divided United Methodist Church, Part II” by Paul Thomas via Substack. As promised, below is Part II of “The Divided United Methodist Church,” with a detailed look at the “new thing” God is doing in the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 5-29-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Launches “Find-A-Church” Feature on Website” via GMC. “As the general public learns more about the GM Church and, the “Find-A-Church” function simplifies the process for finding a local congregation and strengthens the sense of belonging within the GM Church community.” (Added 5-29-2024)
Find-a-Church Webpage via GMC. A new feature allows users to search for a GMC congregation. (Added 5-29-2024)
Post by Rick Just via Heartland GMC Facebook Page. “Friends, this is an exciting week as we prepare to gather together at Christ’s Community Church in Joplin, Missouri for our second Annual Conference together (May 30 – June 1). It promises to be a wonderful 3 days together filled with worship, times of fellowship, and yes, holy conferencing….” (Added 5-28-2024)
Post by Jeff Greenway via Facebook. [photos] “…Today, I preached my last sermon as the Lead Pastor of the Reynoldsburg Community Church after nearly 18 years of service. Beth and I arrived here beaten, battered, and bruised—and as we transition to serve full-time as the President Pro Tempore of the Allegheny West Global Methodist Church, we are loved, mended and healed. We thank God for this community of faith has been a place of resurrection for us….” (Added 5-28-2024)
“A New Dawn: How Young Adults are Awakening the Church” by Kira Calhoun-Wilson and Kendall Hays via Firebrand Magazine. “As we continue to lean into what God is doing in the lives of young adults, we must remember that our young people do not want easy. They are already active in Scripture, and they want more—young people are hungry! As the Church, we must foster the opportunity for leadership and learning through creating welcoming environments, offering relevant and engaging programing outside of Sunday mornings, providing opportunities for both leadership and service, creating spaces for open dialogue, and lastly, fostering mentorship and discipleship relationships.” (Added 5-28-2024)
“Land of the Free (Methodists)” by Chris Ritter via PNJ Team Caffeine. Why the Free Methodist Church may become the GMC’s closest denominational sister. (Added 5-28-2024)
Post via Great Lakes Conference. “We are looking forward to our Great Lakes Annual Conference coming up June 5-7, 2024 @ Indiana Wesleyan University Marion, Indiana! Plan to be a part of this powerful time connecting with each other in our new conference.” [LINK] (Added 5-26-2024)
“Covenant Methodist Church to merge with The Woodlands Methodist Church” by Drew Essen via Woodlands Online. “The merger comes as part of The Woodlands Methodist Church’s vision for campus and church multiplication. With a track record of successful multisite expansion, including locations in The Woodlands, Woodforest and Montgomery, The Woodlands Methodist Church is in position to extend its reach even further by welcoming Covenant Methodist Church as one of its community-focused campuses.” (Added 5-24-2024)
“Conference Superintendents, A Proposed New Office for the Global Methodist Church” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “A general episcopal form of church governance envisions a bishop presiding over several annual conferences, and doing so with the assistance of conference superintendents who, in most cases, will superintend the annual conference where he or she is a member.” (Added 5-24-2024)
“John Wesley and Aldersgate, What Happened? with Mark Olson” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast. “May 24, 1738, is a sacred day in Methodist History. It’s the day that John Wesley had his ‘heart warming’ experience on Aldersgate Street. But what happened that day? Was this a moment of sanctification, was it salvation, was it regeneration? How did John Wesley understand this moment? Are moments even that important? Today I am joined by Dr. Mark Olson who has researched this critical event with an exegetical eye.” (Added 5-24-2024)
Post by NC Gary via Facebook. [photos] “Keep watch of your GMC church. This intentional vandalism and fire took place at Bethany Methodist in Winsteadville.” (Added 5-24-2024)
“Let It Go: The United Methodist General Conference and the GMC” by Bob Phillips via Illinois Great Rivers WCA Facebook Group. Five things the GMC needs to release in order to move on. (Added 5-23-2024)
Overheard: “Our agreement with MinistrySafe remains unchanged, and I want to reassure you that any recent price increases do not impact our arrangement. In our partnership with MinistrySafe, the Global Methodist Church assumes the cost of the membership fee, while churches are solely responsible for the expenses associated with background checks.” (Added 5-23-2024)
“Sign Your Name to Our Petitions!” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. Eight General Conference petitions and a resolution focus on transparency. (Added 5-22-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Joins Forces with MissionInsite: Strengthening Ministry through Strategic Partnership” by Dianne Burnett via GMC. “In a move aimed at bolstering resources and support for its conferences and churches, the Global Methodist Church has announced a strategic partnership with MissionInsite. This alliance will equip provisional annual conferences and local congregations with resources and tools to better understand and serve their communities.” (Added 5-22-2024)
Post by Kerry Wood via Facebook. A North Carolina reserve delegate shares General Conference legislation to remove reference to possible regional conferences. (Added 5-22-2024)
Post by Macy Rivera. Fascinating comment thread on a post about open communion. (Added 5-21-2024)
“John Wesley on the “grand stumbling-block” to the Church’s Global Mission” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “In short, for Wesley, the biggest hindrance to the advancement of the gospel is the lack of holiness in the lives of Christians. He believed that if believers consistently embodied Christian virtue expressed in love for God and neighbor, then those among the nations who reviled Christianity would ultimately be persuaded by the evidence on display in the holy lives of Christians.” (Added 5-21-2024)
Post by Matt Sichel via Facebook. “Wesleyan/Methodist justification for the ordination of women is not based on the liberal theology and women’s liberation movement of the 20th Century. It is grounded in solid Biblical exegesis from generations before. It came out of the late 1700s with John Wesley’s licensing of Sarah Crosby, and later, the powerful witness of women in the Holiness and Pentecostal wings of the church. It was the evangelicals of these churches who pushed for the Biblical position of egalitarianism. Some of the most conservative Wesleyan denominations hold tightly orthodox theology, but understand very clearly that women and men have an equal Kingdom role.” (Added 5-20-2024)
Post by Beth Ann Cook via Facebook: [Link to post on the Bulgarian Partnership] “From my friend Leah Hidde Gregory. When people ask about the “Global” in our name this is what I want them to know. Great Lakes Global Methodist Church has a different country for our mission partnership—Ethiopia. But the principles are the same. We are a Matthew 28 church!” (Added 5-19-2024)
Post by GMC. [photos] “Our Western States conference recently wrapped up their convening annual conference. It was truly a special experience for everyone involved. 🎉 Big congrats to this thriving community of believers! 🙌 #WesternStatesConference #AnnualConference” (Added 5-18-2024)
“Weekly Live Stream for May 17, 2023” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken (YouTube). Discussion of Methodist topics from a traditionalist point of view. Legislation Jeffrey is preparing for the GMC General Conference. (Added 5-17-2024)
“Complementarian Rhetoric Revisited: Al Mohler, Methodists, and a Hasty Generalization” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. Answering Mohler’s conclusion that ordaining females is a slippery slope. (Added 5-16-2024)
“Global Methodist Church and College Presidents” via Wesleyan Holiness Connection (YouTube). A meeting with GMC Bishops and Presidents of Wesleyan/Arminian Colleges. (Added 5-16-2024)
“Tanzania PAC Global Methodist Church” by Perritte Methodist Church (YouTube). “Hear from Rev. Upendo Likondi, upcoming President Pro Tem of the Tanzania Provisional Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 5-16-2024)
Post by Matt Sichel via Facebook: A widely shared post about the GMC for those who are inquiring about bishops, ordination of women, and other features. (Added 5-16-2024)
“You Need to Hear This Bishop’s Ordination Message” by Grow and Be Fruitful with Pastor Chris Mullis (YouTube.) North Georgia ordination sermon by Bishop Scott Jones. (Added 5-16-2024)
Post by David Ryu via Friends of the GMC Facebook Group. [photos] “Hi all! I just wanted to introduce myself and share a photo I took. The Korean American Provisional Conference just had their first gathering in Dallas TX and I was finally ordained as a full elder. All glory belongs to God.” See also Post by Will Kim. (Added 5-15-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Welcomes Nehemiah Journey as Official Ministry” by Diane Burnett via GMC. “Under the guidance of Rev. Dr. Scott Pattison, President Pro Tempore of the Great Lakes Provisional Conference, and Rev. Jill Jackson-Sears, senior pastor of First Global Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas, the Nehemiah Journey proudly announces its transition to an official ministry within the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 5-15-2024)
“United Methodist Church Bishops clarify relationship with Global Methodist Church” via UMC Council of Bishops. “Even as we call for this spirit of mutual recognition from the leadership of the Global Methodist Church, we earnestly pray that God will help us to lead The United Methodist Church in working to fulfill Christ’s own prayer that someday, all who believe in Him will live in unity and peace.” (Added 5-15-2024)
“Unless the Lord Builds the House: How Redeemed Zoomer Means So Well But Is So Very Very Very Wrong” by Anne Kennedy via Substack. “The Global Conservative Methodists, just like faithful Presbyterians, Anglicans, and Lutherans before them are walking in the way of Jesus.” (Added 5-14-2024)
“BR001 The Burge Report: Who Is Attending Church MORE Frequently Now Than in the Past?” via Church Answers (YouTube). Art and Sam Rainer interview Ryan Burge on U.S. religious trends. “Hard religion does better.” (Added 5-13-2024)
“Keep It Red: Why the GMC Should Return to a Season of Pentecost” by David Donnan. “Out of all the challenges facing the GMC the liturgical colors might not even crack the top one thousand. Still, let’s keep the red out and remind ourselves about the Holy Spirit, the birth of the church, and this important aspect of the life God is calling us to.” (Added 5-13-2024)
“Should The GMC Have Spilt Off From The UMC? | Discussing Christian Retreatism.” via Method Ministries (YouTube). “In this episode, Wes and Lucas discuss if the Global Methodist Church (GMC) should have spilt off from the United Methodist Church (UMC), and the lessons we can learn from this.” (Added 5-13-2024)
Post via North Georgia GM Conference via Facebook [pictures]: “What an amazing Convening North Georgia Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church! It was such a spirit-filled experience of overwhelming freedom and joy! It was indeed a time of worshiping passionately, loving extravagantly, and witnessing boldly. #northgeorgiagmc” (Added 5-10-2024)
“Celebrating Mother’s Day with Biblical Mothers: An Ode to Faith, Love, and Sacrifice” by Diane Burnett via GMC. (Added 5-10-2024)
Post by Luther Oconer via Mega Manila Conference. “Please watch the first part of a panel discussion between Bishop Scott Jones and Rev. Luther Oconer during the Mega Manila PAC Convening Conference in Angeles City on Feb. 17, 2024.” (Added 5-10-2024)
“Preparing For The GMC General Conference (Part 1)” by Jeffrey Rickman via Plainspoken. The Convening Conference for the Global Methodist Church is approaching. It will do many things similarly to how the UMC does their conferences. However, there will be many differences. The only way to navigate this September is to understand the design that they have made explicit in their “THE CONVENING GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMUNITY: PLAN OF ORGANIZATION AND COVENANT FOR OUR LIFE TOGETHER” document. (Added 5-10-2024)
“Asbury Theological Seminary signs MOU with the Global Methodist Church” via Asbury. “Asbury Seminary signs a new church planting partnership with the Global Methodist Church, making it the Seminary’s 15th Global Partner and continuing the Seminary’s long-standing and historic commitment to the renewal of the Wesleyan movement around the world. With this partnership, the two organizations commit themselves to church planting and revitalization as an important, ongoing ministry of the Church.” (Added 5-8-2024)
“The Bible and the Merely Methodist Mind” by David Watson via Substack. “The talk I gave was called “Shadowboxing with Modernity: The Bible and the Merely Methodist Mind.” I’ve been wrestling for years with the question of what it means to read the Bible as a Christian in the Methodist tradition.” (Added 5-8-2024)
Post via Good News Methodist Church (Philippines) via Facebook: “We are delighted to share that our very own, Matt Cardano from Mega Manila PAC, has been chosen as the new Communications Specialist for the Global Methodist Church in the United States. This achievement reflects not only Cardano’s gifts but also his commitment to serving our community and advancing God’s mission. Let’s extend our congratulations and rally behind Matt as he takes on this important role.” (Added 5-8-2024)
“MaryLou Reece” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness. A conversation with Mary Lou Reece who travels globally with her husband, Bishop Scott Jones, in the growth of Global Methodism. (Added 5-8-2024)
“Filipino Provisional Annual Conferences Flourishing in the Global Methodist Church” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Like all regions beyond the U.S., United Methodist local churches in the Philippines were not allowed to exercise a UM Church provision to disaffiliate from the denomination. Nevertheless, the Mega-Manila conference has eighteen local churches, ten mission churches, and it is currently reviewing the applications for three more. The largest church, St. John Methodist Church in Quezon City, averages over 150 in worship, while smaller congregations in outlying villages average around 40. The local churches in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates face some governmental restrictions when it comes to building churches; they tend to meet in homes or rent venues for church activities.” (Added 5-8-2024)
“Next Generation Institutional Hope – A Conversation with Mark Tooley” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “In this conversation, Mark and I talk Wesleyan political theory and try to share an understanding of how contemporary institutions work. Mark explains his political framework of choice, Whiggery, alongside other models of more reactionary conservatism (which I generally adopt). It is a robust discourse, in which a final hope for the Global Methodist Church is offered. I hope this conversation is a blessing to you in the way that it was to me.” (Added 5-8-2024)
“Asbury Theological Seminary Names Dr. David J. Gyertson Interim President” via Asbury Theological Seminary. “An ordained elder in the Free Methodist Church, Gyertson has a diverse leadership background spanning higher education, publishing, consulting, and ministry. His extensive experience
includes senior positions in pastoral, charitable, and educational environments, both domestically and internationally. Gyertson’s previous presidential tenures at Regent University (Va.), Asbury University (Ky.), and Taylor University (Ind.) underscore his exceptional leadership credentials.” (Added 5-7-2024)
“School of Methodism Videos” via John Wesley Institute. Presentations by Ryan Danker, Ken Collins, Joy Moore, Suzanne Nicholson, and Jonathan Powers. See also Mere Methodism Playlist. (Added 5-7-2024)
“Service of Ordination” via Emerald Coast Conference via Facebook (video). The May 6 ordination service held at Crosspoint Church. Other ECC highlights here. (Added 5-7-2024)
Tweet via GMC. [pictures] “Here’s a glimpse at the 2024 conferences that met earlier this year. The MS West TN, Florida, and Northeast conferences held their convening conferences and Mid Texas held their second conference. We’ll keep you posted with highlights from the latest gatherings!” (Added 5-6-2024)
“Imperative of Wesleyanism in America Today” by Mark Tooley via Juicy Ecumenism. Address at Wesley Biblical Seminary. (Added 5-6-2024)
Post by Steve Wood via Facebook: [Picture] “Today is a glorious and historic day as the first class of Ordinands are consecrated for service in the North Georgia GMC!” (Added 5-4-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb via Facebook. [photos] “Excited to join brothers and sisters of the Western States Provisional Conference of the Global Methodist Church over the next few days. They began their time by choosing to walk through a door to symbolize the promise of God for the gift a new land/season and the commitment to trust the Spirit.” (Added 5-3-2024)
“Global Methodist Church reacts to UMC votes to allow LGBT clergy, same-sex weddings” by Michael Gryboski via Christian Post. Launched in 2022 as a conservative alternative to the UMC at a time when many churches were planning to leave the mainline Protestant denomination, the GMC issued a statement Wednesday stating that it “do[es] not have any affiliation with their decisions, nor do we wish to comment or provide commentary on the actions of other religious organizations.” (Added 5-3-2024)
“MinistrySafe Partnership Continues to Provide Vital Resources for Global Methodist Churches” by Dianne Burnett via GMC. “By partnering with MinistrySafe, the Global Methodist Church reaffirms its commitment to fostering safe, nurturing environments for all its members,” Rev. Keith Boyette, the Global Methodist Church’s Chief Connectional Officer. “MinistrySafe provides best-in-the-industry resources to assist GM Church annual conferences and local churches with policies vetted by attorneys and training tools to ensure that every employee and volunteer is adequately prepared to maintain the safest environment for the persons to whom we minister.” (Added 5-1-2024)
BODD Updates: The Transitional Book of Doctrines and Discipline was updated effective April 30, 2024, to amend the following provision of the TBD&D for the reasons stated:
- Part One (¶¶101-109) was amended to address changes recommended by the Transitional Commission on Discipleship, Doctrine, and Just Ministry.
- ¶¶ 312, 313, 314, 316, and 321 were amended to enhance the church’s teachings on the sacraments.
- ¶350.2 was amended to mandate annual conferences to determine the criteria for chartering a new local church.
- ¶ 403.1 was amended to remove two words in the definition of the Order of Deacons.
- ¶ 417.6 was amended to place compensation for maternity and paternity leave in the discretion of the local church provided that such a decision is consistent with local law. (Added 5-1-2024)
“What Methodism Needs to Be” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. Twelve essential features of Methodism proposed. (Added 4-30-2024)
“The General Rules: A Preliminary Proposal” by David Watson via Firebrand Magazine. A suggested re-write/update of the General Rules of the United Societies, a doctrinal standards for Methodism. (Added 4-30-2024)
“The Global Methodist General Conference: Five Notes of Hope” by Bob Phillips via PeopleNeedJesus.net. “The challenges facing GC2024 are real. Not all the challenges are obvious. No one general conference can bake the perfect cake, even with 250-300 quality chefs in the Costa Rica kitchen. That said, grounds for hope are real and firmly based. The Global Methodist God movement is the real deal. May the GMC embrace this hope as a modern “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul” as the future begins in earnest.” (Added 4-28-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb via Facebook. Pictures and information from his trip to Bulgaria. (Added 4-25-2024)
“April 18, 2024 Show with Matthew Sichel on ‘The New Global Methodist Church’” via Iron Sharpens Iron Podcast. Matt wrote: “Last week, I was able to share with Chris Arnzen on his Iron Sharpens Iron radio show all about the Global Methodist Church. While Chris and I come from different theological traditions (he is Reformed Baptist), and I am decidedly Wesleyan-Arminian, it was good to be with him and help him and his viewers understand what conservative, orthodox Methodism looks like, especially in the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 4-24-2024)
“Why the Global Methodist Church Needs a Theology of Missions” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “Well, many in the UMC were committed to theological pluralism, even after that language was removed from the Discipline. And if you are committed to pluralism, you usually aren’t too committed to a mission aimed at teaching the nations obey everything Jesus commanded (cf. Matthew 28:18-20).” (Added 4-22-2024)
“The Impending Reality of GMC Bishops – A Conversation with Rev. Christopher Ritter” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “I wanted to speak to Chris because of his proximity to the conversations that are generating this new (or older) understanding of episcopacy that will become a part of the culture of the Global Methodist Church. He also has a great birdseye view of Methodism more broadly. His is an informed perspective.” (Added 4-22-2024)
“Will No One Say a Good Word about Committees?” by Art Collins. A word for the GMC: “Hating or neglecting committee work doesn’t get you better product, and we’d all be better off if leaders took more care in figuring out what committees are for and how best to use them.” (Added 4-22-2024)
“Petition Portal Open for Upcoming Convening General Conference” via PDF of E-Mail. “The deadline for submission of petitions is close of business on Friday,May 23, 2024. Petitions are to be submitted electronically via the convening conference website or by clicking here.” (Added 5-19-2024)
Post by Bishop Mark Webb. “Glad to be back in Slovakia! Spent first day with Rev Dr Gabi Kopas, president pro tem of the Slovakia Provisional Conference and her husband Samir in Bratislava. Looking forward to several days in Dolny Kubin with clergy and laity of the Global Methodist Church of Slovakia.” (Added 4-19-2024)
Post by Bonface Ghero Wanyama via Facebook. “Rev. Keith Boyette the Chief Connectional Officer of the GMC recently visited the Conference office in Kenya on the sidelines of the Africa Initiative and UMC General Conference meetings in Nairobi.” [photo] (Added 4-18-2024)
Post by Todd Chancey via Facebook. “The MidSouth Global Methodist Church celebrates new churches that have voted to join the Global Methodist Church. We welcome: First Methodist Church Sweetwater, Sweetwater, TN. We welcome Pleasant View Church, Abingdon, VA. And Pastor Dale Gilbert. We Welcome: Fairview Church, Maryville TN. and Pastor Gilbert Harris” (Added 4-18-2024)
“2:42 Conference Affirms Hopeful Future of the GMC” by Diane Burnett via GMC. “The idea for the 2:42 Conference originated with Bishops Jones and Webb, and it was organized by a planning team consisting of mainly young clergy from several local churches. The GM Church wishes to express its gratitude to the members of the planning team and the generous donors who made the event possible. It also invites the whole Church to pray for young clergy and seminary students as they continue to grow and serve.” (Added 4-17-2024)
Post by Jay Hanson via South Georgia GMC (YouTube). The challenges of South Georgia being on the only conference that does not require conference-level connectional giving. (Added 4-17-2024)
“Stronger Men?” by David Watson via Substack. “Is this what the end of Western Christianity looks like? Is Jesus just not interesting enough for us anymore? Have our spiritual senses been so dulled by television and movies and smartphones that Jesus has to jump across Snake River in the Skycycle X-2 to for us to notice him?” (Added 4-17-2024)
Post via West Virginia GMC. Presiding Elder Daniel Fulton will be travelling throughout West Virginia on a “Who Is the GMC?” Tour. (Added 4-17-2024)
Post by Joshua Johnson via Facebook. Shows the district map for the Great Lakes Conference and celebrates that growth in Michigan warrants two new districts. (Added 4-17-2024)
“How a Small Evangelical Seminary in Defying the Odds” by Clayton Sidenbender via Religion Unplugged. “There are three factors the WBS administration thinks made the enrollment increase. One factor is the establishment of the Global Methodist Church. The GMC was established on May 1, 2022, as a more theologically conservative alternative to the United Methodist Church (UMC). One of the primary reasons for the spilt in the UMC was over issues involving sexuality.” (Added 4-17-2024)
“Is Itineracy Dead?” by Cambron Wright via Substack. “I think that there are good arguments for and against an itinerant system, but there is no good argument for an unclear system. How are clergy to be vetted, empowered, deployed, hired, and fired in the GMC? It’s no sin for a local church to want to be able to have hiring power for who their pastor will be: the question the GMC needs to answer is, well, will they or won’t they?” (Added 4-16-2024)
“A Future with Hope: Reflections on the Recent GMC Conference for Young Leaders” by Matt Reynolds via Firebrand Magazine. “I do not know what all is in store for the Global Methodist Church, but I know that if the spiritual DNA of this new movement is anything like what I experienced this past week at the 2:42 Conference we have much to be excited about.” (Added 4-16-2024)
Post by Matthew Sichel via Facebook. “One of the blessings of the Global Methodist Church is that we have removed the old “caste” system of clergy we knew in our former denomination. There are no “Licensed Local Pastors,” in this new movement. If you have completed your education, whether Course of Study, or Seminary, and you have the ministry call and experience, we recognize God’s call for you to be ordained an Elder.” (Added 4-16-2024)
Post by GMC via Facebook. [Picture of Northeast Conference ordinands] “…Their ordinations, and the others taking place across the world, represent a new chapter in the history of the Global Methodist Church and are true testament of the unwavering faith and dedication to the future of our church.” (Added 4-16-2024)
Overheard: There are many encouraging social media posts from the Northeast Provisional Conference convening event. See here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.
“Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord?” by Lisa Beavers via Heartland GMC Conference. As the pastor of a Global Methodist Church that was planted just a little over a year ago, I have been blown away by the goodness of God. Our rallying cry as a church has been from Genesis 18:14, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” And let me tell you, the answer to that question is an emphatic, “NO!” (Added 4-15-2024)
“Willow View Church sees more freedom with Global Methodist Church” by Tanner Holubar via Enid News and Eagle (OK). “So this last year, we had the opportunity to tithe over $10,000 back into Enid, such as Shepherd’s Cupboard Food Ministry, Hope Outreach and several other local ministries that we could bless as well.” (Added 4-15-2024)
“Guidestone Account Setup Due April 15th” via GMC. Church administrators have until April 15 to set up their online account with GuideStone in order to avoid delays in benefits for their pastors. (Added 4-13-2024)
“School of Methodism Session Three: Ethics” by Joy Moore via Juicy Ecumenism. Below is the third session, Theology. Dr. Joy Moore, Professor of Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary brought a message on the ethics of the Wesleyan movement. (Added 4-13-2024)
“Northeast Convening Conference” via Facebook video. You can watch the livestream from the April 11-13, 2024 convening conference at Christian Life Assembly, Camp Hill, PA. (Added 4-12-2024)
“GuideStone Health Plans” via GMC Benefits. Health coverage plans and prices. Also notice of an April 18 GuideStone Transition Webinar. (Added 4-11-2024)
School of Methodism 2024 Playlist via John Wesley Institute (YouTube). Five teaching sessions from the recent School of Methodism: Ryan Danker, Ken Collins, Joy Moore, Suzanne Nicholson, and Jonathan Powers. (Added 4-11-2024)
Tweet by Matt Reynolds: “So grateful for this time with young leaders in the Global Methodist Church! God has been so faithful in our time. Lots of prayer and worship, seeking God’s face together, moments of surrender, teaching, fellowship, and more… When we make a little space God always shows up.” (Added 4-10-2024)
“Just Dropped: Big Recommendations on the Future Shape of the Global Methodist Church” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. An analysis of proposals issued on April 10 by the Transitional Leadership Council of the GMC. (Added 4-10-2024)
“GM Church’s Transitional Leadership Council Offers Proposals on the Nature of the Episcopacy” by Walter Fenton via GMC. Key recommendations released on the Episcopacy in the Global Methodist Church. (Added 4-10-2024)
“The Crucial Thread of Prevenient Grace: A Wesleyan Perspective on Divine Drawing” by Adam Roe via Firebrand. GMC Elder: “Prevenient grace is thus a foundational, indispensable thread that holds together the Wesleyan-Arminian theological tapestry. It is a significant source of our unbridled optimism that we can see God’s work within everyone we meet. It tells the story of a God who, through Christ’s cross, universally draws all people through a transformative New Covenant grace.” (Added 4-9-2024)
“God Bless the USA Bible Calmly Considered” by David Watson via Firebrand. “The Bible, however, is an entirely different kettle of fish than any of these. It’s a different kind of document altogether. I’ll mention three significant ways in which the Bible differs from the other documents in the God Bless the USA Bible. For Christians, the Bible is canonical, revelatory, and holy. These other documents are not.” (Added 4-9-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. [Photo] “Opening worship at the Acts 2:42 Conference for young clergy of the GMC. The Spirit is here!” (Added 4-9-2024)
“GuideStone Health Plans for the GMC” via PDF. Hot off the presses: This handout was provided by GuideStone Reps visiting the Great Lakes Conference. It describes healthcare plans and prices for the GMC. A higher quality color version will soon be available. (Added 4-8-2024)
“Convening General Conference Update” via Global Methodist Church. “With the highly anticipated convening General Conference in San Jose, Costa Rica, rapidly approaching, the Global Methodist Church is delighted to announce the launch of the convening General Conference website.” (Added 4-8-2024)
Overheard: The Great Lakes Conference hosted, “Activate,” its first conference-wide clergy gathering in Champaign, IL at New Horizon Church. The preliminary shape of the 18 districts were discussed. Posts from participants can be found here and here. (Added 4-8-2024)
Post by Brooksville Methodist (FL) on Facebook. “Brooksville Methodist has officially joined the Global Methodist Church denomination! Join us on April 21 for a special celebration! Rev. Jay Therrell, president of the GMC Florida Conference, will be joining us and lead a special blessing to mark this exciting transition.” (Added 4-8-2024)
“GC Delegates Elected” via Trinity Conference. 26 delegates plus alternates were elected. (Added 4-8-2024)
“How Not to Do It and How to Do It: Social Witness and the Church” by Bob Phillips via PeopleNeedJesus.net. UMC advocacy for ceasefire in Gaza offers lessons on how The Global Methodist Church should and should not present their social witness. (Added 4-6-2024)
Overheard: The West Plains Conference will hold an online annual conference session on April 14 to elected General Conference delegates. (Added 4-6-2024)
“Ryan Danker” by Carolyn Moore via Art of Holiness. An interview with a Wesley Scholar. (Added 4-4-2024)
“So the World Will Know” Global Methodist Church General Conference Website. The official site of the September 20-26 convening General Conference of the Global Methodist Church. Petition submission feature included. (Added 4-4-2024)
“Celebrating God’s Call to Lead” by Erik Grayson via GMC. “When I’ve had my leadership questioned because of my age, I’m usually reminded that there are things I don’t know how to do. I acknowledge that I may not have the same level of leadership and life experiences as others, and that is perfectly acceptable. Inexperience should not be a source of shame if we use it wisely. In fact, it can be a blessing in disguise, allowing us to develop a humble reliance on God, who calls the unqualified and whose strength is most evident in our weaknesses.” (Added 4-3-2024)
“General Conference 2024: Possibilities and Peril” by Bob Phillips via PeopleNeedJesus.org. Cautionary notes for both the UMC and GMC General Conferences happening this year. (Added 4-2-2024)
“Once Saved Always Saved? A Documentary Film – Full Movie 4k” via YouTube. “The film “Once Saved, Always Saved?” is a thought-provoking documentary that examines the controversial doctrine of eternal security in Christianity. Through interviews with scholars, theologians, and religious leaders, the film delves into the historical origins and biblical arguments for and against the belief that once a person is saved, their salvation cannot be lost.” (Added 4-2-2024)
“Methodist Retreat, British & American” by Mark Tooley via Juicy Ecumenism. “In America the impact of Methodist implosion is exponentially greater. British Methodism was always important but a smaller minority. Methodism was America’s biggest church for much of the 19th century and the largest Protestant denomination for most of the 20th century. Methodist groups like Methodist Women and the Epworth League for youth, which later became Methodist Youth Fellowship, not to mention Sunday schools and men’s groups, molded and socialized millions of Americans.” (Added 4-2-2024)
Tweet via Global Methodist Church: “We are overjoyed to announce the North Georgia Provisional Annual Conference officially embarks on their journey today! Let’s extend a warm welcome to North GA as they join our GMC family. Visit http://ngagmc.org to connect with regional leaders, locate churches, and more!” (Added 4-2-2024)
“Friends, We Don’t Build the Kingdom – A Conversation With David Watson” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “The conversation ranged from all kinds of topics, from Christian Nationalism, to Charlie Kirk, to Donal Trump, to Greg Locke, Modernism, Social Justice, The United Methodist Church, and, you know, the Day of the Lord.” (Added 4-2-2024)
“Five More Months – A Conversation with Keith Boyette” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “Keith was gracious to accept an invitation to speak with me about the job he has done, the legacy he hopes will sustain, and his plans for the near future. This will give many folks a better understanding of how and why it is that the GMC has been structured the way that it has, what values have been balanced in the formation of this new covenant body, and what we might anticipate in the coming months as we prepare for the coming conference.” (Added 4-1-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. Conclusion of a 47 day trip to Africa, Asia, and the Middle East on behalf of the GMC. (Added 4-1-2024)
“Texas Panhandle Fires: Global Methodist Churches Need Your Help” via Crossroads Newsletter (GMC). “The West Plains President Pro Tempore, Mike Schafer, has a message on how we can continue to assist our Global Methodist churches in the affected communities.” (Added 3-27-2024)
“New Journey Global Methodist Church confirmed 300 members into the church on Sunday, March 24, 2024” by Hannah Bridge via Starkville Daily News (MS). “Starkville’s FUMC decided to stay with the United Methodist Church, so some members then started New Journey as a new Global United Methodist Church.” (Added 3-26-2024)
Tweet by Keith McIlwain: “Here is @ritterchris discussing Scriptural Authority & the #GMChurch
(with some interesting links from some other top minds)” (Added 3-25-2024)
“Mere Methodism: Recapturing the Riches of Our Tradition” by Ryan Danker via Juicy Ecumenism. “Beginning on Thursday evening, April 4th and concluding mid-day on Saturday, April 6th, we will hear from world-class scholars who will present on different subjects ranging from the sacraments in the Christian life, the Wesleyan approach to scripture, the impact of the English Christian tradition on John Wesley, the gifts that the Holiness Movement offers the future of Methodism, and so much more.” (Added 3-25-2024)
“What the church has believed, taught and confessed” by Timothy Tennent. “The reason these creeds continue to be confessed is that they represent a major link of continuity between all churches, across all denominations, across all time, and around the world. We live in a time when diversity and “options” are all the rage… We are in a period of rebuilding and reclaiming historic Christianity in the life of the church today.” (Added 3-23-2024)
“The Legacy of Methodist Bishops (Part Three): Spiritual Leadership” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. The spiritual leadership of early Methodist bishops is described as the GMC awaits decisions on the role and selection process for its own bishops. (Added 3-22-2024)
Post by Mary Lou Reece via Facebook. “Had two days of launch celebration for Ethiopia District of Kenya Ethiopia conference which included Holy Spirit infused worship, much teaching, and extravagant hospitality! It was wonderful! It’s such a privilege to witness God on the move around the world!” See also here, here, here, and here. (Added 3-22-2023)
“Short Takes on Hot Topics: Helena Titus” via WCA Podcast via Substack. “WCA President Scott Field interviews the Pastor of First Global Methodist Church in Los Angeles, on her experience in the UMC, and her unique in-person and online ministry.” (Added 3-21-2024)
“Prayer Conference – Come Up Higher” via Trinity Conference. “This is a non-conference event. The Woodlands Methodist Church presents Prayer Conference – Come Up Higher with Rev. Jordan Wilson on Saturday, April 27th in the Harvest Worship Center from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The cost is $40 per person with lunch included.” (Added 3-21-2024)
“Get Registered for Annual Conference” via Trinity GM Conference. “We have been working hard to plan and prepare for a Spirit-filled time at First Methodist Church Shreveport, June 20-22… Don’t forget our Zoom gathering on Saturday April 6, to elect clergy and lay delegates to General Conference!” (Added 3-21-2024)
“Connectional Operations Officer Position Description” via GMC. “The Global Methodist Church is seeking an experienced and dynamic Connectional Operations Officer (COO) to serve as the denomination’s chief operations officer bearing responsibility for the accountable functioning of the connectional council, general commissions, and task forces as they work to fulfill the General Conference’s missional mandates between its conferences. Working in partnership with the Church’s Assembly of Bishops, its connectional council, and its executive staff members, the COO will oversee the operations of the general Church.” See related Social Media Post. (Added 3-21-2024)
“Boyette Announces Retirement” by Walter Fenton via GMC.“ The new position will include aspects of the office Keith filled,” said Nicklas. “but I think the differences will be greater than the similarities. Our times demanded a position with a great deal of power and the latitude to exercise it. The GM Church was blessed to have a humble and faithful servant like Keith to fill that critical role.”(Added 3-19-2024)
“Are Hierarchies Useful to the Whole Church?” via The Whole Church Podcast (YouTube). With the discussion over episcopacy in the GMC, this is a general conversation on the role of bishops in the whole church. This episode includes interviews with Dr Russell Moore of Christianity Today, Rev Steve Lanclos of the Anglican tradition, Pastor Will Rose of the Lutheran tradition, Pastor Gary Adkins of the Pentecostal tradition, Rev Keno Cannady of the AME Zion Church, Joe Dea of the home church and host of Buddy Walk with Jesus, Professor Chris Moreland of the Catholic tradition, Sister Rose of the Catholic tradition, Kelly O’Sullivan of the Anglican Church, and Father Jonathan Resmini of the Orthodox tradition.(Added 3-19-2024)
Post by Bill Barkley via Facebook. Shares the General Conference delegates from Allegheny West. (Added 3-18-2024)
“Are the Global Methodists Evangelical?” by Daniel Silliman via Christianity Today. “Here’s why the new denomination may or may not fit the label.” PDF (Added 3-18-2024)
“Global Methodists Want to Check Bishops” by Daniel Silliman via Christianity Today. “Ahead of the first general conference, the new denomination is weighing possible limits on leaders.” PDF (Added 3-18-2024)
“Judicial Administration – Transitional Book of Doctrines & Discipline – Episode 22” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “This week we end part 8, the judicial administration, of the GMC Transitional Book of Doctrine & Discipline. The majority of the discussion concerned the Connectional Council on Appeals, the highest judicial body of the Global Methodist Church and how it operates.” (Added 3-18-2024)
Global Methodist Church – Kenya Provisional Conference Facebook Group. A new African provisional conference has a Facebook presence. (Added 3-18-2024)
Post by Robert Barnes via Facebook. “I have a genuine concern that the Global Methodist Church will be underfunded and administratively too lean. That said, we are coming out of top-heavy organization that has soured many on supporting conference and denominational structures through apportionments. I don’t know the answer, but let us pray for wisdom and balance.” (Added 3-18-2024)
“John Wesley’s Scriptural Christianity” by Robert Mayo (PDF). A PNJ Exclusive. Summarizes John Wesley’s view of Scripture. (Added 3-15-2024)
“Scriptural Authority and the Global Methodist Church” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.net. Extended context and a reading list for the good conversation happening currently in the Global Methodist Church on the authority of Scripture as a criterion for belief. (Added 3-15-2024)
“Redaction Criticism (Of Charlie Kirk)” by David Watson via Substack. “No doubt he would shudder at being tarred with the same brush as the progressives he so despises. He nevertheless has nothing to say that precedes or transcends the concepts of politics and power.” (Added 3-15-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. “We have launched another GMC conference— GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH – KENYA PROVISIONAL CONFERENCE. Like others we spent a lot of time teaching and worshipping. I was able to teach GMC doctrine and polity. The lay session did the same thing. Leaders fielded lots of questions from both groups.” [Photos] (Added 3-14-2024)
Post by Mary Lou Reece. “Yesterday was a wonderful day of launch of the Kenya Ethiopia Annual conference!! As I’ve begun to just expect, the power of the Holy Spirit was overwhelmingly present!
A great celebration ensued!…” (Added 3-13-2024)
“Constitution for the Global Methodist Church Recommended to Convening General Conference” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “This past Monday, the Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council voted to propose a constitution to the denomination’s convening General Conference, scheduled to meet in San Jose, Costa Rica, September 20-26, 2024.” (Added 3-13-2024)
“Bishop Scott Jones’ Kenyan goat” by Bishop Scott Jones via YouTube. “After dedicating a new church building and preaching at the Global Methodist Church in the Kakuma, Kenya refugee camp, I was given the gift of a goat. My first ever!” (Added 3-12-2024)
“The Role and Place for Theologians and the Academy in the Next Methodism” by Ryan Barnett via Firebrand Magazine. “or almost twenty years, I was either on the national board of directors for the Confessing Movement, Good News, or the WCA. That made me a bit of a pariah among my mainstream ministry peers. While I don’t know for sure, I think I have an inkling of how our faithful academics are being looked upon by mainstream faculty peers as they make their way into the Global Methodist Church. I applaud your courage and your conviction.” (Added 3-12-2024)
“Songs of the Faithful: The Wesleyan Hymns as Border for the People Called Methodists” by Isaac Hopper via WesleyScholar.com. “The Wesley’s understood that the songs Christians sing are important. The Wesleyan hymnody held a special place in the doctrinal and practical formation of early Methodists. The hymns served to establish guidelines for doctrinal understanding, set expectations for common Christian experience, and gave expression to the faithful witness of the Church.” (Added 3-11-2024)
Post by Warren Lathem via Facebook. Information on Venezuela Now, an approved GMC mission partner. (Added 3-11-2024)
“Of Mullets and Methocostals” by David Watson via Substack. “…to the extent that we talk about prophecy, we should also talk about discernment. No matter how convincing the speech, no matter how passionate the delivery, no matter how exquisite the mullet, there is only one criterion of prophetic speech: Is this a message from God? If so, I want to know. If not, I’ll stick with my magic 8-ball.” (Added 3-11-2024)
Post by Keith McIlwain via Facebook. “The Governmental Theory of the Atonement – argued by Wesleyan (Nazarene) theologian J. Kenneth Grider & drawn from Wesleyan (Methodist) theologian John Miley (a great Methodist of the 19th century)…Grider argues (as Miley did) that this is the proper view for Arminians such as Methodists. Worth a look.” (Added 3-11-2024)
Post by Lewis Smith via Facebook. Update on a Greenville, South Carolina church plant following a close disaffiliation vote. (Added 3-11-2024)
Post by Richard Ramos II via Facebook. “Is this the start of the revival of disaffiliation toward HOLINESS in the Philippines? The Saint John UMC in Quezon City, Philippines, declared SECESSION from the United Methodist Church yesterday. This is the second local church that seceded from the UMC…” (document images included in post] (Added 3-11-2024)
Post by Richard Ramos II via Facebook. Shares a 12-minute video featuring highlights of Bishop Scott Jones visit to Asia. (Added 3-11-2024)
“GM Church General Conference Delegates Allocated to Provisional Annual Conferences and Districts” by Dianne Burnett via GMC. “A second allocation of delegates will be announced shortly after June 1, 2024, to ensure fair representation for new provisional annual conferences or districts that join the GM Church between March and June.” (Added 3-9-2024)
“Racial Preference, Affinity Groups, & Hypocrisy” by Jeffrey Rickman via Substack. RIckman is critical of the GMC planning a Korean U.S. Conference. (Added 3-9-2024)
“Short Takes on Hot Topics: Methodism in the Philippines” via WCA. “Rev. Scott Field interviews Dr. Luther Oconer on the history and perspectives of Methodism in the Philippines, including a discussion on the proposed Christmas Covenant.” (Added 3-9-2024)
Post via Global Methodist Church – Provisional Annual Conference (Facebook). Bishop Scott Jones leading and organizing event for the GMC in Kenya. (Added 3-9-2024)
“Global Methodists Run Toward Renewal” by Daniel Silliman via Christianity Today. “The traditional Methodist approach to the Bible is literalist, according to Nicholson, but that doesn’t mean Wesley or other early Methodists like Peter Cartwright and Francis Asbury read everything literally. Instead, they accepted the plain meaning of the text, which involves an assessment of the genre of writing, the literary and historical contexts, and the larger story of Scripture, moving from original sin to justification by faith, new birth, and inward and outward holiness.” (Added 3-9-2024)
“Wesleyan Baptism: Sacramental and Evangelical [Firebrand Big Read]” by Pete Bellini via Firebrand. “In a Wesleyan theology of baptism, it is essential that the sacrament is understood in catechesis and praxis as water and Spirit because it is the Spirit that vivifies the sacrament for God’s restorative mission, which is a new creation transformed in the image of God in Christ. The ancient liturgy of the church reminds us of the apostolic practice of water baptism and the laying on of hands (with oil) for the anointing of the Spirit, a true Spirit baptism (Acts 2:38). I believe that a sound and thorough catechesis in Methodist baptismal theology and liturgy could ignite a renewal of the Spirit in our sacramental life.” (Added 3-5-2024)
Post via North Carolina Provision Conference (Facebook). “The NC GMC (Missions area), in partnership with One Mission Society, has scheduled regional workshops around the state. Our hope is that you will plan to bring a team from your church if it is within a 90-minute drive from your church, or sign up to become a host church (read below) if one isn’t close to you.” (Added 3-2-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook). The Asian tour by Bishop Scott Jones and his wife, Mary Lou Reece, continues in Abu Dhabi among Filipino Methodists there. (Added 3-2-2024)
Video via Philippines GMC (Facebook). Recent baptisms by Bishop Scott Jones in Qatar. (Added 2-29-2024)
“Should Women be Pastors?” by Jay Therrell via Florida Conference GMC. “The Florida Conference of the Global Methodist Church has amazingly gifted women among its clergy ranks. I am humbled to watch their dedication, love, leadership, and preaching.” (Added 3-1-2024)
Post by John Beyers via Facebook. On the North Georgia Convening Conference: “Can’t wait! I am honored to chair the North Georgia Provisional Annual Conference Planning and Agenda Committee supported by a great team of servant leaders. We are seeking after a great revival of holiness of heart and life for the historic, orthodox, evangelical Methodist movement in North Georgia and around the globe!” (Added 2-29-2024)
Post by Mary Lou Reece via Facebook. “A wonderful spirit filled service of worship last night with the sweet people of Qatar Global Methodist Church! Scott Jameson Jones got to baptize 9 new Christians, we heard powerful preaching by Pastor Jerome Enerva and they let me witness to the power of the Holy Spirit moving in their midst! We are beyond blessed!” (Added 2-29-2024)
Post by Daniel Blaylock via Friends of the GMC Facebook Group. One of several posts weighing in on the Methodist approach to eternal security (perseverance of the saints). (Added 2-29-2024)
“Critical Document Released for the GM Church’s Convening General Conference” by Walter Fenton via GMC. The Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council has announced the release of a document setting forth a plan of organization and covenants for the new Church’s convening General Conference, So the World Will Know. The 15-page document, officially entitled “The Convening General Conference: Plan of Organization and Covenant for Our Life Together,” covers everything from the nomination and election of delegates, the development of the conference’s daily agenda, and the conduct expected from all participants during the proceedings. (2-28-2024)
“Doing Apologetics as Methodists – A Conversation with Robert Worthington” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Robert Worthington.. winsomely presented the gospel, as well as how to advance the cause of Christ against our many cultured despisers. He has personal experience engaging in the sort of interfaith dialogue that is required in our pluralistic society. He is also patient in his demeanor, which is important when dealing with hardheaded people like me.” (Added 2-28-2024)
Tweet by Matt O’Reilly: “What will theological education look like in the Global Methodist Church? Dr. Bill Arnold will be at Reconstructing Methodism to shepherd us through this and other crucial questions. Use DISCOUNT20 for $20 off current registration rates: http://reconstructingmethodism.com” (Added 2-28-2024)
“Evangelism & Church Growth in Methodism – A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Warren Lathem” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “His last pastoral appointment was to the Mount Pisgah UM Church which he served for over 17 years. During his tenure, it grew from 75 in worship to an average of 3,000, the fourth largest UMC (based on average attendance) in the U.S. More importantly, during those years over 60% of the 5000 new members (net) who joined were by Profession of Faith. He has always been committed to reaching the unchurched with the Good News of Jesus Christ.” (Added 2-28-2024)
“Northeast GMC Convening Conference Invite” by Steve Taylor via YouTube. “Join us for the Northeast GMC Convening Annual Conference, April 11-13, 2024 at Christian Life Assembly Church in Camp Hill, PA. Registration information is at http://www.northeastgmc.org.” (Added 2-27-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines. “JUST IN: Bishop Scott Jones and his wife, Mary Lou Reece, have arrived in Doha to commemorate the first anniversary of the Global Methodist Church in Qatar.” (Added 2-27-2024)
“Resurrecting Wesleyan Evangelism: The Necessity of Field Preaching Today” by Matt Reynolds via FireBrand Magazine. “…we are no less called to evangelism than were Methodists in the 1700s.” (Added 2-27-2024)
Post via South Georgia GMC (Facebook). “As the kids (and chaperones) return from the first SGAGMC Confirmation Retreat at Epworth By The Sea, we pray that the amazing grace of God will continue to work in the lives of these wonderful children and grow the seeds planted here!…” (Added 2-26-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook): “Friends in Qatar area, please join us for the 1st Church Founding Anniversary of GMC-Qatar with Bishop Scott Jameson Jones, MaryLou Reece, Ptr. Luther Oconer, Ptr. Brad Mackenzie and Ptr. Dave Sablan!” (Added 2-25-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “LOOK: Incredible start of the Covenant Philippines Provisional Annual Conference Special Session in the northern Philippines, which was emphasized by the leadership of Bishop Scott Jameson Jones in leading us through Holy Communion and giving a powerful message on the first day of CPPAC.” (Added 2-25-2024)
“The Legacy of Methodist Bishops, Part Two: Negotiating Episcopal Power” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.org. The second installment of a historical review of episcopacy in Methodism aimed at providing context for the Convening General Conference. (Added 2-24-2024)
“My Experience at the Spirit & Truth Conference in Conroe, TX” by Kevin Watson. “I am also sharing this here because I want you to know that if I can grow in my faith, willingness to take risks to see the Lord move, and openness to receiving gifts from the Spirit, so can you!” (Added 2-24-2024)
“Why Bishops?” by Daniel Hixon via YouTube. A UMC to Anglican clergy shares why he believes in the concept of bishops. (Added 2-24-2024)
“Global Methodists to hold first conference” via Huntingdon Daily News. “This historic gathering will allow the establishment of this regional body of the new Methodist movement to operate in the Northeast, which currently includes 160+ churches and clergy known as the Northeast Provisional Annua Conference. This large geographic area covers congregations from Maine to parts of West Virginia and the eastern two-thirds of Pennsylvania.” (Added 2-23-2024)
“The Tail Wagging the Dogma” by David Watson via Substack. “Dogma or discovery…. It’s not clear to me why we shouldn’t pursue both. What is dogma? A quick Google search will turn up this concise definition from Oxford Languages: “a principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.” For Christians, this definition will refer to our central truth claims about God, humankind, and salvation. But the Young People, we are told, don’t prefer that.” (Added 2-23-2024)
“The Legacy of Methodist Bishops, Part One: Coke & Asbury” by Chris Ritter via PeopleNeedJesus.org. The start of a new series of posts exploring the episcopal legacy inherited by the Global Methodist Church. (Added 2-23-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “Bishop Scott Jones has returned from his mission trip in Indonesia, and is now in Isabela. He and his wife, Sis. Mary Lou Reece are preparing for the Special Conference Session of the Covenant Philippines Provisional Annual Conference. The conference will start tomorrow from February 23 to 24, and Bishop Scott will be taking on several important role at the conference.” (Added 2-22-2024)
“CEO Search & Transition” via Seedbed. “As of January 1, 2024, we are excited to announce Ivan Filby will be stepping into the role of Seedbed president. Ivan comes with a rich background in business and leadership development, and many of you will know him as the author of the Seedbed book Livestream: Learning to Minister in the Power of the Holy Spirit.” (Added 2-22-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. “Just finished day-long teaching on Methodism with clergy and laity of the Indonesian Methodist Church. I was hosted by Bishop Sabam Tobing and Rev. Denny Nainggolan. In addition to those pictured there were 137 online from all over Indonesia. We have new friends!” (Added 2-21-2024)
Post by Luther Oconer via Facebook. “Our GMC goodwill tour of Asia continues this time in Jakarta! We thank God for gaining new friends from the Methodist Church of Indonesia!” (Added 2-21-2024)
“Social Principles & Witness for Methodists – A Conversation with Chappell Temple” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). Interview with a GMC pastor who helped craft the social witness statements for both the UMC and GMC. (Added 2-21-2024)
“Korean-American Provisional Annual Conference a First for the Global Methodist Church” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Earlier this month, the Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council authorized the launch of its first non-geographical conference, the Korean-American Provisional Annual Conference. It is set to hold its first official gathering May 6-9, 2024, in Dallas, Texas.” (Added 2-21-2024)
“Connectional Organization – Transitional Book of Doctrines & Discipline – Episode 19” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “It has been a wild ride, but the TLC has had a firm had on the wheel. We also try to speak to what the odds are that any group like this will exist after the Convening Conference this September.” (Added 2-20-2024)
Post by Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). The Covenant Philippines Provisional Annual Conference’s Special Session, themed “Witnessing Boldly in Spirit,” is poised to be a deeply meaningful gathering at the Buenavista Methodist Church in Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines, on February 23-24, 2024… Bishop Scott Jameson Jones and his wife Mary Lou Reece’s attendance will provide spiritual depth and leadership, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from and be encouraged by their leadership. (Added 2-20-2024)
“Methodist Resources for The Lord’s Supper” by Keith Sweat. “If your church is going to use the rites of another denomination, then you can do a lot better than the UMC. Even the weakest and briefest of the rites posted here (all from the Methodist tradition) is far more faithful to the Biblical narrative and the character of God than the UMC Rite II.” (Added 2-19-2024)
“Go Peace: Final highlights of the Mega Manila PAC’s Inaugural Convening Conference. All glory and honor belongs to God! #MegaManilaCon” via Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). A highlight video of the Mega Manila Convening Conference. (Added 2-19-2024)
Post by Warren Lathem via Facebook. “You don’t believe in women preachers? You don’t believe in infant baptism? You don’t believe in open communion? You don’t believe in connectionalism? You don’t believe in tithing? You don’t believe in Bishops? You don’t believe in foreign missions? Ok. You just do not merit my time and attention. We must get on with the work. These issues are settled in the GMC. And I am glad.” (Added 2-16-2024)
“The Protocol and Providence” by David Donnan via PeopleNeedJesus.org. The failure of the Protocol for Grace and Reconciliation through Separation worked out for the betterment of the GMC. (Added 2-16-2024)
“To Contend for the Faith, Part 4: Creeds, Kids, and My Terrible Credo” by David Watson via Substack. “The Great Tradition of Christian faith frees us from the bonds of “presentism”—the assumption that the beliefs and values of our current moment are necessarily superior to those of the past.” (Added 2-16-2024)
Posts by Sherwin C. Ronquillo via Facebook. Posting multiple photographs from the convening conference of the Mega-Manila Conference. (Added 2-16-2024)
Set 1 and Set 2 via Mega Manila Conference (Facebook). Two collections of photos from the pre-conference event associated with the Mega-Manila convening conference. (Added 2-15-2024)
Post via Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). “A strong sense of community filled the air as leaders of the Global Methodist Church (GMC) convened with their Korean counterparts in a series of spirit-filled meetings. Led by Bishop Scott Jameson Jones and his wife, Mary Lou Reece, alongside Mega Manila PAC President Pro Tempore Rev. Dr. Luther Oconer, International Partnerships Coordinator Rev. Dr. Richard Ramos II, and Presiding Elder Rev. Brad McKenzie, the delegation fostered an environment where faith and fellowship intertwined harmoniously…” (Added 2-15-2024)
“Lubbock woman appointed to leadership in Global Methodist Church” by Alex Driggars via Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. “Nearly 40 people applied for the executive director of communications position, many with stellar qualifications,” said Rev. Keith Boyette, chief connectional officer for the GMC. “Dianne’s educational background and work experience impressed us, but even more than that it was how warmly and enthusiastically her colleagues commended her to us. (Added 2-14-2024)
“Dianne Burnett Appointed as Executive Director of Communications for Global Methodist Church” by Wojciech Zylm via BNN Breaking News. “In a notable development for the Global Methodist Church (GMC), Dianne Burnett, a seasoned professional from Lubbock, has been appointed as the Executive Director of Communications. This appointment comes a year after the GMC’s inception in the city, following a significant schism within the United Methodist Church (UMC).” (Added 2-14-2024)
Post via GMC-Qatar. In a video message, Filipinos in Qatar celebrate the Mega-Manila Conference. (Added 2-14-2024)
“An Ash Wednesday Invitation: Examining Our Desire Toward God” by Bishop Mark Webb via GMC. “The receiving of ashes doesn’t end with a capital I, but rather ends with a horizontal stroke that wipes out and covers up the I. The stroke reminds us of the loving arms of Christ stretched out on the cross so we can be welcomed home, receive the promises offered and know the fullness of God in the way we truly desire.” (Added 2-14-2024)
Post by Richard Ramos II. [Photos] “GMC leaders are welcomed to Korea with Bishop Scott Jameson Jones and his wife MaryLou Reece, Mega Manila PAC President Pro Tempore Dr. Luther Oconer & Int’l Partnerships Coordinator Rev. Dr. Richard Ramos II, and Presiding Elder Rev. Brad McKenzie. Bishop Jones and the team had a wonderful holy conversation & Spirit-filled prayer with the General Secretary of the Korean Methodist Church, Rev. Tae & President Yoo of the Methodist Theological University, which is the first & oldest seminary in Korea.” (Added 2-14-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones: “We met with Rev. Dong Hwa Tae, General Secretary of the General Board of Missions of the Korean Methodist Church today. The GMC is interested in mission and willing to partner with other Wesleyan churches A very cordial conversation followed by a tour of Methodist sites in downtown Seoul.” (Added 2-14-2024)
“The Arminian Legacy in Methodism” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “In this segment, Brian helps me to see through the Armenian lens to contemplate the nature of God and the salvation he offers. Jacob’s Arminius, the namesake of Arminianism, was far from a liberal or a semi-Pelagian. People rarely understand that it is much more robust than the majority of its supporters. Dr. Abasciano does well in making the case for this framework, answering a few of my criticisms and concerns affably and capably.” (Added 2-13-2024)
“‘Sin is Lurking at the Door’: The Root of Bitterness and the Work of Forgiveness” by David Watson via Firebrand Magazine. “As the UMC and the GMC go our separate ways, if we allow the root of bitterness to find purchase, we will soon end up back in the trenches of ecclesiastical warfare. Bitterness and unforgiveness create a repetitive cycle. Going forward, it is imperative that we change our habits of mind.” (Added 2-13-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook. “MaryLou Reece and I are leaving today for 47 days of service to Christ through the Global Methodist Church in 8 different countries. We have given up our home for Lent! We are praying for the GMC around the world and we covet your prayers!” (Added 2-12-2024)
“Navigating the Future: The Role of Scripture in the Global Methodist Church” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “I, for one, am generally happy with the language of inerrancy, properly understood to mean that the text of scripture speaks without error in what it affirms and taken in light of its genre and the author’s intent. Nevertheless, I don’t think there’s much potential for some in the Methodist tribe to warm to the language of inerrancy, if only because it comes with a lot of baggage.” (Added 2-12-2024)
Post by Leah Hidde-Gregory via Substack. “For the second year in a row, we have had “order-like” worship. But the movement of the Holy Spirit has been so tangible during the Awakening that I cannot deny the authentic enthusiastic expressions of people’s faith.” (Added 2-12-2024)
Post by John Kay via Facebook. Shows latest demographic date for the Mid-Texas Conference of the GMC. (Added 2-12-2024)
Post via North Georgia District. “Over 900 people have registered for our Next Steps Gathering on Saturday at Norcross First GMC! We hope that you will be able to join us for a celebration of what God is doing in North Georgia through the Global Methodist Church. Here is a quick look at what to expect. With so many folks planning to attend, you are encouraged to come early to check-in!” (Added 2-10-2024)
Post via Christ Methodist Church of Auburn (Facebook). This Emerald Coast church describes the pastoral appointment process their membership. (Added 2-9-2024)
Post via Mega Manila Conference (Facebook). Pre-launch video event. (Added 2-9-2024)
Post via West Plains PAC (Facebook). Explaining their General Conference delegate selection process. (Added 2-9-2024)
Post via South Georgia PAC (Facebook). Promoting the IF Women’s Gathering. (Added 2-9-2024)
Post via Great Lakes PAC (Facebook). Weekly e-news featuring “The Butterfly Project,” Delegate nomination process, etc. (Added 2-9-2024)
“Asbury Bible Scholars Participate in New Methodism Summit” via Asbury University. “In January, four Asbury Bible-Theology professors participated in the John Wesley Institute’s New Methodism Summit II in Alexandria, Va. Dr. Brian Shelton ’89, Dr. Suzanne Nicholson, Dr. Kevin Anderson, and Dr. Joy Vaughan joined a collection of scholars and church leaders to craft a document on Wesleyan values related to the topic of holiness to offer theological guidance to a Methodist church in transition.” (Added 2-9-2024)
“Asbury Awakening’s Impact Ongoing, One Year Later: ‘An Overwhelming Glimpse of God’” by Wendy Griffith via CBN News. “During those 16 days, there was always Gen Z represented at the altar. And the very last day that we had a formal service together, I’ll never forget, someone stood in front of all these students, 1,500 Gen Zers in the room, and said, ‘You will not be the generation defined by depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicidal ideation.’ And to hear a cry come up from that group, someone said, if we had the spiritual eyes to see it, we would’ve seen an altar filled with loosened chains. That’s my heart. That is the heart of the people around me, that this is a burdened generation, but God wants to use them, and we need to invest in them,” Brown said. (Added 2-9-2024)
“What’s the Impact of Asbury’s Outpouring? John the Baptist Offers 3 Lessons” by Sarah Breuel via Christianity Today. “Church history has taught us to never underestimate the long-term impact when God’s tangible presence comes upon a group of people; this understanding has led me to closely track the aftermath of the 2023 outpouring at Asbury University.” (Added 2-9-2024)
“Conferences – Transitional Book of Doctrines & Discipline – Episode 18” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “We pick up halfway through Section 6, now detailing how annual conferences are supposed to be composed, how they should function, and even the different mandatory committees they require. The section ends with explicit directions as to how General Conference delegates are to be calculated.” (Added 2-9-2024)
“The Core Convictions of the Global Methodist Church” via Waco First (YouTube). Fourth in a series with Jason Vickers and Ryan Barnett. (Added 2-8-2024)
Post by Gabriel Bangah Mususwa via UM Clergy Facebook Group. “That’s the more reason I even laugh at people scorching me for promoting Regionalization because I know it’s circumstantial holiness at Play. Time will come when those against Regionalization will understand it and they will be in front praising it’s fruitfulness.” (Added 2-8-2024)
“Fond Farewell to John Lomperis” by Jeff Walton via Juicy Ecumenism. “Today the Global Methodist Church announced that it has hired longtime UMAction Director John Lomperis to serve as General Conference Business Manager for the fledgling denomination.” (Added 2-8-2024)
“Global Methodist Church and a CEU requirement” by Timothy Tennent. “One way this strategic initiative could be strengthened is for the GMC to consider some form of a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) or a ministry effectiveness plan (MEP) for all clergy in full connection with the church.” (Added 2-8-2024)
Post by Bott Radio Network (Memphis/Mid South) via Facebook. “On Wednesday’s Mid-South View Point #radioshow Bishop Scott Jones of the The Global Methodist Church talks about his departure from the United Methodist Church and the creation of a new denomination. Listen WED 02/07 at 3PM.” (Added 2-7-2024)
E-News by South Carolina GMC (E-Mail). News of the conference. (Added 2-7-2024)
Post via South Georgia GMC (Facebook). “The Special Called Annual Conference of the South Georgia Provisional Annual Conference (SGAGMC) is this Saturday at 1pm. The conference will occur after the conclusion of the GROW Conference in the morning at Harvest Church in Byron, GA…” (Added 2-7-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “Our full schedule for our Convening Conference is now Available!…” (Added 2-7-2024)
Post via Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). “Join us for our first major GMC gathering in the Middle East! Let’s celebrate God’s goodness in Abu Dhabi on March 2, 2024, from 2 PM to 6 PM as we witness the launching of the Global Methodist Church Middle East. This will be accompanied by a Commissioning/Ordination service, Revival, Equipping, Prophetic Prayer, and more. Special guests include Bishop Scott Jameson Jones, Brad McKenzie (Presiding Elder, Piny Woods Area, Texas), Luther Oconer, Dave Sablan, and Joanne Valenzuela.” (Added 2-7-2024)
“Conferences – Transitional Book of Doctrines & Discipline – Episode 17” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “This episode covers the first half of Part 6, dealing with the General Conference and Regional Conferences, mostly. I start with an overview of the Methodist term ‘conferencing’ and how it is supposed to overlap with our organizational structure. Then we go down the line of how some of the particulars of conferencing are designed to take place in the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 2-7-2024)
“GMC Catechism – Episode 2 – Who is God?” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “A Catechism of Christian Faith and Doctrine for The Global Methodist Church is not an official doctrinal standard of the denomination, but it was created by those familiar with all of those sources. It is a synthesis of two millennia of the finest Christian thought, meant to be memorized and rehearsed within the family of God.” (Added 2-7-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church comes to Avery County” by Jock Ollis via The Avery Journal Times (NC). “As of Jan. 1, 2024, Minneapolis Methodist Church and Mt. Zion Community Methodist Church are part of this new Wesleyan movement. The churches are steeped in Christian orthodoxy as expressed in the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds, and place particular emphasis on the Lordship of Jesus Christ, the authority of scripture and our accountability before God and one another.” (Added 2-7-2024)
“Dianne Burnett to serve as GM Church’s First Director of Communications” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Nearly 40 people applied for the Executive Director of Communications position, many with stellar qualifications,” said the Rev. Keith Boyette, the GM Church’s Chief Connectional Officer. “Dianne’s educational background and work experience impressed us, but even more than that it was how warmly and enthusiastically her colleagues commended her to us. They spoke to her strong work-ethic, her creativity, and her candor. (Added 2-7-2024)
“GM Church Hires John Lomperis to Serve as General Conference Business Manager” by Walter Fenton via GMC. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Chicago, Lomperis went on to Harvard Divinity School (Cambridge, Massachusetts), where he graduated with a Master of Divinity degree. He is widely known for his work at the Institute for Religion and Democracy where he has served as the UM Action Program Director. (Added 2-7-2024)
Overheard: An updated Transitional Book of Doctrines and Discipline, incorporating amendments adopted by the Transitional Leadership Council, has been uploaded to the GMC website. The Changes Memorandum highlights the four specific paragraphs that have been amended. Three of the amendments relate to who are clergy that can vote on business of the annual conference and who can be elected as clergy delegates to the convening General Conference. You were previously advised of these changes. The fourth amendment adds a requirement that a president pro tem reside in the area where they provide residential supervision unless the Transitional Leadership Council grants an exception. (Added 2-6-2024)
“Permission” by Warren Lathem via Facebook. “If we are not very careful, our bishops, our Book of Discipline, our ethos will be that which seeks to break the move of the Holy Spirit and make it domesticated, tame, controllable and useful for our own purposes. Money, control, and power will again rule our faith and practice.” (Added 2-6-2024)
“‘Holy, Holy, Holy’: Holiness, Divine and Human [Firebrand Big Read]” by J. Warren Smith via Firebrand Magazine. “Originally given as the opening keynote of the Next Methodism Summit II in Alexandria, VA, Jan. 19, 2024.” (Added 2-6-2024)
Post by Carolyn Moore via Facebook. “Our Mosaic family has some news to share. This is about our leadership and our plans for the year ahead and for years to come. I hope this post comes to you as a blessing, and that you’re able to rejoice with us as we follow where God leads….” (Added 2-5-2024)
Tweet by Global Methodist Church. (Check out our Events page to find the date of your conference’s 2024 Annual Conference! We’re here to keep you updated as new dates are added. Access the Events page at https://bit.ly/47N7Nag” (Added 2-5-2024)
Post by Leah Hidde-Gregory via Facebook. [Photos] “Wrecked in the very best way…. Day 2 Awakening…. #midtexasgmc” (Added 2-5-2024)
Post via Mid Texas Conference. “Check out these awesome groups of people who are making Mid-Texas all that God intends us to be! Congratulations to our newest class of Ordinands and to the Convening General Conference delegation!” (Added 2-5-2024)
“The Core Convictions of the Global Methodist Church” via Waco First (YouTube). Jason Vickers and Ryan Barnett. (Added 2-2-2024)
“Convening Annual Conference: Moving in the Spirit” via Northeast GMC. “We have an incredible opportunity to come together from across the Northeast GMC for the very first time to celebrate and be inspired in this new orthodox Methodist movement which is growing in our region and spreading across the world!” (Added 2-2-2024)
“Doctrine, Discipline & Spirit of Methodism with Matt Reynolds” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken Podcast. “Rev. Matt Reynolds is the President and Founder of Spirit and Truth. In this conversation, he and I speak of a mutual hope for a reclaiming of original Methodist doctrine, culture, and practice. We also speak of practical realities in doing church in our present cultural moment, as well as submitting to Christ’s lordship in our homes. I hope you enjoy learning from Matt!” (Added 2-2-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church: These Things I Pray – Thom Rainer” by Andy Miller III via More to the Story Podcast (YouTube). “More than 7,500 Churches have disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church. These churches have an opportunity to start fresh in a new denomination. The danger is that these churches will simply revert back to habits of an old culture and not take advantage of this pivot to make more disciples. Today, I talk with renowned Church health expert, Thom Rainer about how churches can leverage this moment for the Kingdom.” (Added 2-2-2024)
“The Next Methodism Summit II: Holiness – Reflections” by Kevin Watson. “First, the Lord has raised up a surprising number of conservative Wesleyan scholars who are willing to publicly be seen as such. This is surprising because most of us have come from institutions that were not trying to produce us.” (Added 2-1-2024)
“Finish the Sentence: Methodism Is…” by Matt O’Reilly. A list of characteristics of Methodism. (Added 2-1-2024)
Post by Robert Barnes via Facebook. “Recently, concerns were raised over what exactly a GMC leader meant when he said that ‘celibate homosexuals’ would be eligible for ordination. Without going into too much detail at this time, I want to point out one source of the confusion that was experienced in this group.” (Added 2-1-2024)
“The Difference between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church: General Conference Decisions” by John Lomperis via Juicy Ecumenism. “The stage is now set for very different directions by United Methodists and the Global Methodists on these and many other issues. There has been much tragedy and pain in the still-ongoing separation process. But ultimately each faction of the formerly unified denomination is being set free to develop the sort of denomination they want, no longer held back by the other.” (Added 2-1-2024)
Post by Mid-Texas Conference. “Ordination Services will be live streamed at 3:00 PM this Saturday, February 3rd.” (Added 1-31-2024)
“Grace Amid Division” by Bob Phillips via PeopleNeedJesus.net. An example of constructive behavior amid an embittered season of division. (Added 1-31-2024)
“On Not Over Correcting: Bishops, Baptism, and Seminaries in the Global Methodist Church” by Matt O’Reilly via Theology Project. “So let’s not over correct. Let’s work hard to maintain the theology and structures that make us Methodists and let’s work hard to make them strong. We don’t need to be rid of bishops; we do need good bishops with appropriate accountability.” (Added 1-31-2024)
“Making Room for Delegates and Others at the Global Methodist Church’s Convening General Conference” by Walter Fenton via Global Methodist Church. “Determining how many delegates should attend the convening General Conference, and how to allocate them was a very challenging task,” said the Rev. Keith Boyette, the GM Church’s Chief Connectional Officer. “Hats off to the Commission on the General Conference, and especially to the Credentialing Committee members for their steadfast and faithful work.” (Added 1-31-2024)
“The Gift of Discernment and the Future Mission Statement of the Global Methodist Church” by Paul Lawler via Medium. “I wonder if it’s possible that we Methodist Christians, even those holding seminary degrees and are ordained to vocational ministry, have a blind spot? And I wonder if this is the catalytic moment in history in which we need to address it.” (Added 1-31-2024)
“What’s God Got to Do With It? Thoughts on the Global Methodist Church’s Mission Statement” by Jason Vickers via Firebrand Magazine. “To my mind, all three proposals suffer from the same flaw: God has no active agency. We make disciples. We worship and witness. We spread scriptural holiness throughout the world. Call me crazy, but I think a good mission statement should call attention to God’s primary agency in some way.” (Added 1-30-2024)
“The Dar es Salaam Dilemma: Progressive United Methodists have a choice to make” by Scott Field via WCA. Surreptitiously the MainstreamUMC leaders also conflated some video of the December, 2023 Centennial Celebration of Methodism in Nigeria, which included greetings from Rev. Keith Boyette of the Global Methodist Church, as proof positive in their minds that Bishop Yohanna is, by association, a stooge of the GMC. Even more, MainstreamUMC calls on its supporters to contact the UMC Council of Bishops immediately to “take action against Bishop Yohanna.” (Added 1-30-2024)
“Rekindling the Wesleyan Fire: The Next Methodism Summit II” by Ryan Danker via Firebrand Magazine. “Because holiness is so essential to the Wesleyan way of following Jesus, though, we argue about it. In fact, most splits in our movement have come about because of competing visions of holiness. And yet the Summit was tasked with finding a common voice to describe it. Before we met, I was a bit worried about how this might play out. And so I gathered other Wesley scholars in June for a conversation about the broad contours of a Wesleyan vision of holiness, a vision broad enough to include as many of Wesley’s heirs as possible. But as I told the Summit, let’s not write a Wesleyan document on holiness that John Wesley could not endorse.” (Added 1-30-2024)
Post via Global Methodist Church Philippines (Facebook). “BREAKING NEWS: We Are Now Mega Manila Provisional Annual Conference Transitional Leadership Council convened on Monday, January 29, and formally greenlights the establishment of the Mega Manila Provisional Annual Conference. Scheduled to initiate operations on February 7, 2024, the Mega Manila PAC is positioned to culminate its inaugural conference from February 15 to 17….” (Added 1-29-2024)
Tweet by GMC: “Don’t forget about our partnership with MinistrySafe for essential training for your staff and volunteers. With their expertise, you can ensure the safety and protection of children and the vulnerable population. Learn more about this resource at https://bit.ly/3HwO588” (Added 1-29-2024)
Post by Matthew Sichel via Facebook. “One of the gems in our history lost to the mainline mergers was the Evangelical Association’s position on Entire Sanctification, which was codified in the Discipline….Though there is a statement (which we inherited) in that on Entire Sanctification, it pales in comparison with that which the Evangelical Church had prior. Here it is from the 1951 EUB Discipline.” [photos] (Added 1-29-2024)
Tweet by Paul Lawler: “What are the Implications for a Local Church Moving from the United Methodist Church to the Global Methodist Church? Welcome to the Great Inversion. https://youtube.com/watch?v=1mdFg_kwMO0 (29:00 minute mark).” (Added 1-29-2024)
“A Response to Dr. David Watson’s Proposal for a New Mission Statement for the Global Methodist Church” by Paul Lawler via Medium. 1) “Why I agree on the need for the phrase “spreading scriptural holiness” in our mission statement. 2) Why we should include the words “make disciples” in our mission statement. 3) Why we should use the phrase “to all peoples” rather than “across the globe.” Suggestion: “The mission of the Global Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by spreading scriptural holiness to all peoples.” (Added 1-29-2024)
Tweet by Mark Tooley: “Good argument for why new Global Methodist Church should avoid generic evangelicalism & stress specifically Wesleyan doctrine.” [Link to David Watson’s Firebrand article on the GMC mission statement.] (Added 1-29-2024)
Post by Jessica LaGrone (Facebook). “The 2:42 Conference is open to all young clergy, seminary students, and those discerning ministry roles in the GMC (or even discerning about the GMC).
Please fill out the interest form soon…” (Added 1-29-2024)
Post by Bishop Scott Jones via Facebook: “Mary Lou Reece and I just finished the convening session of the Mississippi-West Tennessee Provisional Annual Conference of the GMC. It was a great gathering and Leah Hidde-Gregory was a powerful speaker. I was asked about churches who are still discerning their future after disaffiliation, and I am sharing again my list of Questions they should ask.” [Link] (Added 1-29-2024)
Post via Mid-Texas Conference (Facebook). “Look who has arrived in Mid-Texas for the Annual Awakening! Daniel Topalski the President Protem for the Bulgaria! He will be traveling to a few of our churches meeting the folks in Mid-Texas and then he will be speaking at laity worship Thursday night.” (Added 1-29-2024)
Overheard: On January 28, Union Road Methodist Church in Stockbridge, Georgia voted to join the Global Methodist Church. (Added 1-29-2024)
“The Global Methodist Church: These Things I Pray” by Thom Rainer via ChurchAnswers. “An amazing development in world Christianity is the formation of the Global Methodist Church. Indeed, this story is one of the most important stories of global and American Christianity in many years.” (Added 1-29-2024)
Post by Great Lakes Conference via Facebook. A graphic showing facts about the conference. (Added 1-27-2024)
Post via Mississippi – Western Tennessee Conference (Facebook). Photos from the January 26 ordination service in which 54 men and women were ordained. (Added 1-29-2024)
“What is Baptism in the Global Methodist Church?” by David Donnan. A collection of statements about baptism from GMC documents. See also “What is Pastor Parish Relations in the GMC.” (Added 1-27-2024)
“A Strong Foundation for a Peculiar Church” by C.A. Buster. A lay perspective from Marvin Methodist Church (Tyler, TX) that builds on David Watson’s recent article about a new mission statement for the GMC. (Added 1-27-2024)
“Where do Churches make Payments in the Global Methodist Church?” by Jeff Pospisil. “I’m sure this post will not age well so…if you’re reading this after June of 2024, you better check the Global Methodist website for more current information. The Global Methodist denomination continues to add dozens of churches each week and add about one new Provisional Conference each month.” (Added 1-26-2024)
“GMC’s Theology of Ordination Concerning Sexual Orientation” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “A recent thread on The Friends of the Global Methodist Church Facebook Page suggested to me that it might be helpful to talk about the ways in which the conversation around sexually nonconforming people is going to continue in our churches. I sense that a lot of folks do not understand how this is not going to go away, and how we need to have discerning minds, lest we make room for theologies that are at odds with our fundamental doctrines.” (Added 1-26-2024)
“Methodist church finds new home after Gainesville funeral homes merge” by Jim Massara via The Gainesville Times. “A newly formed Methodist church will soon be using a vacated Gainesville funeral chapel as its home, completing a game of musical chairs involving its congregation, another funeral parlor and another church.” (Added 1-25-2024)
“Protestant Denominations Need Stronger Leadership on Assisted Reproductive Technology” by Emma Waters via The Heritage Foundation. “Similarly, the Global Methodist Church does not directly address reproductive technology or embryonic experiments. The denomination opposes abortion, except in cases when the mother’s life is at risk. From the documents available online, do not specify that life begins at conception nor that it deserves protection at an embryonic stage. This is, most likely, a failure to fully expound online given how relatively new the denomination is, rather than an indication of a weak stance on embryonic life.” (Added 1-25-2024)
“The Core Convictions of the Global Methodist Church” via Waco First (YouTube). Dr. Jason Vickers and Rev. Ryan Barnett share a presentation with Waco First. (Added 1-25-2024)
“Wesley Memorial joins The Global Methodist Church” via Lake City Reporter (FL). “Wesley Memorial Methodist Church of Lake City is now a member church of The Global Methodist Church. The church announced this week that it joined GMC on Dec. 15.” (Added 1-25-2024)
“The Wesleyan Way: Our Holiness Heritage” by Allan Bevere. A conversation with Craig Adams about the Wesleyan Holiness Heritage in its various forms. Included here because of the recent GMC and pan-Methodist conversations on holiness. (Added 1-25-2024)
“CCM Team Interview: Carolyn Moore on the New GMC, Developing Leaders, and Calling” via Asbury Theological Seminary Podcast (YouTube). A Center for Church Multiplication interview. (Added 1-25-2024)
“Plans for GMC’s Convening General Conference Gather Pace in New Year” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “GM Church leaders believe the delegates will move to hold General Conferences every six years. However, given that many local churches in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe will continue to join the denomination in 2024 and 2025, and that initial organizational work will remain, it is expected that the delegates will approve the convening of a second General Conference in 2026. It will then begin its six-year cycle by meeting in 2032.” (Added 1-24-2024)
Tweet by the John Wesley Institute: “Over 70 scholars from across the Wesleyan world gathered in Alexandria, VA by @TheJWInstitute to write a document on holiness of heart and life.” (Added 1-23-2024)
Tweet by Matt Reynolds: “I really appreciate this piece from @utsdoc. I am an elder in the GMC. I am excited about the future of the GMC. I’m doing all I can to invest in that future. But when it comes to our mission statement, I couldn’t agree more with Dr. Watson.” (Added 1-23-2024)
“Peculiar Prophets: American Methodism as Irregular, Disestablished Anglicanism” by James Mahoney via Firebrand Magazine. “For all of the early American Methodists’ distaste for the forms and trappings of Anglicanism, Methodism is nonetheless profoundly influenced by it.” (Added 1-23-2024)
Tweet by Bob Kaylor: “100% this. If we’re really going to be Methodists, our peculiar mission should be about spreading scriptural holiness across the globe. @utsdoc nails it again.” (Added 1-23-2024)
Tweet by Chris Ritter: “I love the GMC & have always viewed the current mission statement as a placeholder. @utsdoc offers a distinctly Wesleyan improvement. Perhaps the JW Institute scholars that met last week can give Methodism a succinct definition of scriptural holiness.” (Added 1-23-2024)
“A Mission for a Peculiar Church: On the Global Methodist Church’s Mission Statement” by David Watson via Firebrand Magazine. Offers an alternative mission statement for the GMC as the convening General Conference approaches. (Added 1-23-2024)
“The Superintendency – Episode 15 – The GMC Transitional Book of D&D” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken. “In this session, TJ and I go through the role of presiding elders and the oversight structure for governing the general connexion of this new body. We ended up having a prolonged discussion about ‘inclusivity’ and ‘open itinerancy’ and whether or not these terms signal modern woke notions of antiracism, or whether they instead participate in a colorblind meritocratic setup. I expect many will find this illuminating.” (Added 1-22-2024)
“Finances & Faith with Jeff Pospisil: The GuideStone Shift” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Take some time to learn about the financial ministry of the GMC and the potential we have for a bright future. If this is something you would enjoy as a semi-regular installment, make sure to let people know about it!” (Added 1-20-2024)
“Florida Provisional Convening Conference Livestream” via Facebook. January 19-20 in Clermont. (Added 1-19-2024)
“Bonus Blog: ‘Methodists have a problem’” by Joe Scheets. Lawson Stone: “The Global Methodist Church, for example, has virtually no theological standards for the training of ministers. You can go to a wildly revisionist seminary if you want to and GMC is okay with it. After fighting this huge battle, the GMC is going to find itself in trouble in 20 years. Activist, emotional, and heterodox.” (Added 1-18-2024)
“GM Church Reveals General Conference Theme” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “The Global Methodist Church’s Transitional Leadership Council has released the logo and theme for its convening General Conference: So the World Will Know.” (Added 1-17-2023)
“Clergy Delegates Memorandum” by Keith Boyette via GMC. Updates to the Transitional Discipline clarifying matters around clergy delegate elections. (Added 1-15-2024)
“Pentecostalization” by David Watson via SubStack. “Cessationist churches and some mainline liberal churches will remain, but we should expect to see more and more Spirit-filled Christian communities arise across the U.S. Remember, the West is no longer the center of world Christianity. As Philip Jenkins told us over two decades ago in his classic work The Next Christendom, the center of gravity has shifted southward. I expect the church in the U.S. will increasingly reflect the trends we see across the globe.” (Added 1-13-2024)
“Why GuideStone?” via The Global Methodist Church. “After careful review, the Global Methodist Church chose GuideStone Financial Resources (Dallas, Texas) as the denomination’s new retirement and insurance plan provider. GuideStone has been dedicated to providing and administering employee benefits for the Christian community since 1918. Their mission is to enhance the financial security of those who serve the Lord. GuideStone provides services to more than 200,000 members, 38,000 churches, and several hundred evangelical ministries.” (Added 1-11-2024)
“Call for General Conference Delegate Applications” via Trinity Conference. “Executive Officer Rev. Jason Burnham shares an invitation to clergy and lay to represent Trinity Conference at the 2024 Convening General Conference of the Global Methodist Church in San José, Costa Rica, this September 2024.” (Added 1-11-2024)
“The SBC will sell insurance, retirement to women pastors — if they aren’t Southern Baptists” by Bob Smietana via Religion News Service. “The Global Methodist Church has been assured by the leadership of GuideStone that decisions made by the Southern Baptist Convention on issues such as the ordination of women or women serving in any clergy role do not and will not impact the services that GuideStone provides to the Global Methodist Church.” (Added 1-10-2024)
“Local Global Methodist Churches Spring Up in the Desert Southwest” by Walter Fenton via GMC. “Taking root and growing in the desert is no easy task, but two new Global Methodist congregations are doing all they can to plant Global Methodist churches in Arizona and Nevada.” (Added 1-10-2024)
“Northeast Provisional Annual Conference Website” (Added 1-10-2024)
“Mere Methodism: The Recapturing Begins – A Conversation with Ryan Danker” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “He is not concerned only with the Global Methodist Church, but with the richness of a tradition that has languished for a while. If it is to be reclaimed, it would seem such efforts are in order. Take some time to learn about the effort he is putting into buttressing Methodism.” (Added 1-10-2024)
“St. Joseph’s Oldest Church Changes Name and Affiliation” by Ken Lundberg via Moody on the Market (Michigan). ““Our new name and affiliation give us a chance to connect and share blessings with the Global Methodist Church members around the world, while we continue to offer high quality worship, ministries, and missions that our church is well known for here at home. We look forward to serving the southwest Michigan community as Pathway Global Methodist Church.” (Added 1-9-2023)
Tweet by Griffin Gulledge: “I’m glad @GuideStone is doing this. This is a great, practical way to stand with those who have stood fast on God’s Word. ‘Global Methodist Church Announces Relationship with GuideStone Financial Resources'” (Added 1-9-2024)
“Global Methodist Church latest group to partner with GuideStone” via The Baptist Paper. “The new Global Methodist Church is the latest group to partner with GuideStone Financial Resources, which is best known for its Southern Baptist roots.” (Added 1-9-2024)
Post by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (Facebook). “This recent announcement that the Global Methodist Church will be shifting from Wespath to GuideStone is welcome news to me…” (Added 1-9-2024)
“Upper Midwest GMC Newsletter, Tenth Edition – January 5, 2024” via Upper Midwest GMC. “What to Expect During the Appointment Process” and other news. (Added 1-8-2024)
“GMC Announces Relationship with GuideStone Financial Resources” via GMC. “Upon the recommendation of the Global Methodist Church’s Benefits Team the Church’s Transitional Leadership Council has approved a shift from Wespath Benefits and Investment to GuideStone Financial Resources for the administration of health insurance and retirement benefits for clergy and lay church employees. The transition from Wespath to GuideStone will be completed on July 1, 2024; Wespath will continue providing services through June 30.” (Added 1-8-2023)
“Conservative alternative to the United Methodist Church surpasses 4,200 member congregations” by Michael Gryboski via Christian Post. “‘The current member congregations are predominately former UMC congregations, but we do have member congregations that have come from other denominations, or who were previously nondenominational or independent, or that are new church plants that have already been recognized as member congregations,’ [Keith Boyette] said.” (Added 1-5-2024)
“The Superintendency – Episode 14” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “¶501 begins a section on how the Global Methodist Church envisions that bishops will operate in this new denomination. We review the broad strokes here, including how compensation is calculated, how episcopal areas work alongside annual conferences, how episcopal funds are collected and distributed, and how doctrinal fidelity is protected. I also have some inside information on a taskforce that the denomination has established to bring forth legislation at this year’s convening conference with respect to this issue. All interesting stuff. Take some time to think through these things with us.” (Added 1-5-2024)
“Global Methodist Church Abu Dhabi Expands to a New Worship Space” via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “Truly an exciting news that Global Methodist Church (GMC) in Abu Dhabi continues to flourish in faith, fellowship, and numbers. In an announcement made by the GMC Abu Dhabi, they reveal a momentous stride in their congregation—they moved their worship service to a more spacious venue…” (Added 1-4-2024)
Post by Jeff Pospisil via Facebook. “Just to make sure this is out there: The River Network is providing Grants from $5k to $20k for Asbury Grads planting a Global Methodist Church (application: https://therivernetwork.org/page/929). Planting a church is hard but fulfilling work. This grant could be a huge help for getting some momentum.” (Added 1-4-2024)
“Surrendering to God’s Purpose” by Keith Boyette via GMC. “From our posture of surrender to God, will we embrace the new mission fields and people to which He is calling us? What will we do to advance the mission of the GM Church – to make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly? How will we do so in our unique settings?” (Added 1-3-2024)
Post by Phil Marklins via Friends of the GMC Facebook Group. “While I really enjoy the photos of the GMC celebrations of Christmas and the lovely and inspiring decorations by the churches, let us also remember the GMC congregations that were denied their buildings and have to meet in gyms, or theaters, or warehouses and cannot put up the beautiful decorations….” (Added 1-2-2024)
Post via GMC Philippines (Facebook). “Inaugural GMC Youth Camp 2023: A Faith and Fellowship. The Global Methodist Church Mega Manila is delighted to commemorate a historic moment in its journey—the successful inaugural of Ignite Summit. This event showcases the collaborative efforts and support from various GMC churches…” (Added 1-2-2024)
“Modern Methodist Foreign Missions – A Conversation with Jim Ramsay of TMS Global” by Jeffrey Rickman via PlainSpoken (YouTube). “Jim Ramsay is the Chief of Global Operations for TMS Global, formerly The Mission Society, which was an evangelical answer to the leftward drift of United Methodist foreign missions a few decades ago. TMS Global is now an interdenominational effort around the world, and it will stay that way, but they are perhaps uniquely positioned to work with Global Methodist local churches to engage in meaningful mission work.” (Added 1-2-2024)
“A Shared Heritage: Rediscovering Methodist-Baptist Connections” by Bradley Edwards via Firebrand Magazine. “In many communities in the United States, both traditions have a significant presence. The two will often compete for the attention of the community. While we try to be ecumenical, our differences often complicate our attempts. But what if we realized we shared a heritage through our Puritan ancestors? We are called to spread the perfecting and mortifying love of Jesus to all four corners of the earth.” (Added 1-2-2024)
“The Genius of Methodism [A Firebrand Big Read]” by Ryan Danker via FireBrand Magazine. “One of the mistakes of modern Wesleyans is to forget that Methodism began—and to an extent is always meant to be—a movement of renewal or restoration without group or later denominational limits.” (Added 1-2-2024)
You can also visit the GMC Links 2023 Archive.
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