Reconciling Ministries Network’s 2023 Convocation looked back at the group’s 40 years of advocacy for LGBTQ United Methodists. The gathering also included time for strategizing for next year’s General Conference.
June 24 marked 50 years since an arson fire at the Up Stairs Lounge, a gay bar in New Orleans, killed 32 people and inured 15 more. Churches across the city refused to assist with proper funerals, however, St. Mark's United Methodist Church held an open service for those affected.
The United Methodist Church’s splintering has left many feeling wounded. But churchgoers, pastors and seminary professors are finding different ways to mend after hurtful battles over church exits.
United Methodists invite worshipers to use the full range of imagery for God found in Scripture and across the whole of the Christian tradition, and to avoid language for people that seems to imply males are the norm.