Perry First Congregation Hears about Legislative Actions of 2019 UNYAC-UMC

The issue of United Methodist church members who happen to be gay in orientation has been a subject on the agenda of the Quadrennial General Conference since 1972. Every four years there was a vote to keep them as second class members by setting restrictions on them like no other member was asked to do.

Finally, a special General Conference was called this past February for the explicit purpose of determining the will of the church and implement it. The Bishops were hoping "The One Church Plan" would be successful, but it was not. "The Traditionalist Plan" was adopted which left no further option for the world-wide United Methodist Church to stay together.

Tonight we learned that the church is on the verge of a break-up. The Traditionalists have apparently already decided that they are leaving the United Methodist Church (UMC), and becoming a part of the "Wesleyan Covenant." Those who remain in the original church would be a part of the progressive side of theology who seek to be in ministry to all of the needs and concerns of gay members. Remaining Traditionalists would have a number of years to decide whether of not to remain and become progressive, or to leave and join their friends in the Wesleyan Covenant.

Those gathered for this update meeting, were somewhat pleased to realize that they no longer had to think about leaving their church, but just to hold tight until others made their move. All of this might (emphasis on "might") be altered by actions of the regularly scheduled General Conference which takes place next Spring. Perry First representatives want to be in full ministry to all persons without regard to race, color, or orientation. They believe that to be from the very substance of the teachings Jesus gave to us.