General Conference brought big changes, particularly the removal of constraints on ministry with and by LGBTQ people. Now the challenge is to remain a big-tent denomination that can evangelize in diverse communities and countries.
After historic decisions reversing The United Methodist Church’s longtime restrictions against LGBTQ members, church leaders see a denomination where everyone can belong, but they also acknowledge the hard work ahead.
General Conference’s revision of the denomination’s position on marriage sparked protests from African delegates and celebration by supporters of same-sex marriage.
There was a slight strain of sadness among the jubilant United Methodists celebrating in a courtyard of the Charlotte Convention Center after the ban on gay clergy was lifted. Those whose potential contributions to the church are forever lost were also remembered.
