No matter how or where they
serve Jesus Christ around the world, United Methodist do God’s work in a
unique connectional covenant that bears a striking resemblance to the United
States’ government of the people, by the people.
General Conference is our
legislative branch, and Judicial Council, as defined by The Book of
Discipline, determines the constitutionality of acts, or proposed
acts, of general, jurisdictional, annual of central conferences, just as the
Supreme Court rules on U.S. laws.
We are, by design, a
self-government people dedicated to a life of Christian purpose-a life of
participation and personal responsibility, of generosity, sacrifice and
self-restraint, responding to the calls of Jesus Christ.
Today we speak many languages
and live in many countries –with different cultures, ethnic traditions,
national history and understandings of Christian faith and practice.
We are covenant community,
concerned about God’s children everywhere. In life’s clouds of doubt and
division, we see the sunlight of God’s purpose that brings healing, hope and
harmony. We love worship, study of God’s word, music, churches, suppers and a
sense of community, a sense of belonging.
We welcome people of faith into
our churches, and people who are searching for answers to life’s tough
questions, too, because we know what it’s like to feel alone and unsure…to
need a welcoming place with open hearts, open minds, open doors.
We roll up our sleeves and say,
“Let’s get to work” as we answer the call of making disciples of Jesus Christ.
We live the promise we made the
day we joined The United Methodist Church…the promise of our prayers, our
presence, our gifts and services.
