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JULY 2020
VOL. 24, NO. 11
ON HOLY GROUND
Illinois Great Rivers Conference of The United Methodist Church
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2020
News from the Episcopal Office
the current |
Inside this Issue 4
An antidote for racism: look and act like Jesus
News from the Episcopal Office�������������������������������������� 1 Racism is a cancer that continues to infect, infuse, and influ- tors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for
ence disharmony, discord, and destruction in nearly every sector works of service, so that the body of Christ
Announcements & Events����������������������������������������������� 2 of our society. may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in
Christian Conversations�������������������������������������������������� 3 Racism is deeply embedded in the American way of life, the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of
JULY 2020
including the Church. Racism continues to be silently shielded, God and become mature, attaining to the
Statements of Anti-Racism���������������������������������������������� 4 sheltered and sanctioned within the hallowed walls of most of our whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” 1
Bishop's Column�������������������������������������������������������������� 5 United Methodist Churches. The sad news is that many “good Racism will be eliminated in the church
Christians” continue to feed this insatiable monster without even when Christians look like, act like, smell like,
Historical Messenger������������������������������������������������������� 6 Bishop Frank Beard knowing the hurt and harm that is being caused. and behave like Jesus Christ! Christian maturity is NOT an op-
Local Church News��������������������������������������������������������� 7 Don’t get me wrong, I do not believe that most Christians or tion for Christ followers, it is a mandate.
Appointments
Coronavirus - Moving into Stage 4�������������������������������8-9
the church communities would view themselves as harbingers of The good news is that we do not have to do this work alone.
current
racism. Most of our churches are welcoming, friendly, caring, and The truth is that we cannot do it apart from the assistance of the
Annual Conference News�����������������������������������������10-16 In consultation with the Cabinet of the Illinois Great
accepting. Holy Spirit. It is the job of the Holy Spirit to create Christlikeness
Rivers Conference, Bishop Frank J. Beard appoints the
AC Registration, Revisions, Sermon Speakers���� 10-11 following:
Unfortunately, racism is not just about hospitality. Racism is within each of us as we yield ourselves to God. When we become
often times deeply engrained in our churches because of deci- Christians, we become brand new persons, staring on the inside.
AC Retirees���������������������������������������������������������12-14 Louella Pence to Tolono-Sadorus, Iroquois River sions based on past history or institutional decrees that were Paul uses the Greek word, “kainos,” indicating something that
AC Churches Completing Their Mission������������������ 15 District, ¾ time, effective July 1. made because of privilege, power, and position. Racism strives was not previously in existence. Christians are not renovation
JULY 2020 Steve Livengood to Christian Motorsports in many places simply because, “We’ve always done it that way!” or restoration projects. The presence of Christ makes us brand
AC Five-Star Mission / 100% Apportionments��������� 16
Vol. 24 No. 11 International, less than ¼ time, effective July 1. Sunday morning still remain the most segregated time of the spanking new!
National / Global News�������������������������������������������������� 17 Kenneth Dees to Warrensburg, Sangamon River week because churches have not been willing to change the nar- Failure to understand this simple point is partially the reason
Conference News�����������������������������������������������������18-20 District, ¼ time, effective July 1. rative. why racism and other sins continue to strive and survive in most
The Current (USPS 014-964) is published God’s intent, from creation, is for unity. The last prayer that Je- of our churches. New creations have new directives. The old
monthly by the Illinois Great Rivers Allen Sample to Middletown, Sangamon River District, sus prayed over his disciples (John 17) was a powerful prayer for things are allowed to die and new things, expressions of God’s
Conference of The UMC, 5900 South Second ¼ time, effective July 1. their unity and for unity among those that would become follow- agenda, are allowed to thrive and to grow.
Street, Springfield, IL 62711
Rob Roy to Mt. Zion-Bethany, Sangamon River District, ers because of their evangelistic efforts. The Apostle Paul reminds Eliminating racism will take time, but it is possible. I remem-
An individual subscription is $15 per year. effective July 1. us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the ber several instances when I was asked, after sharing where I was
The opinions expressed in viewpoints are
Jerry Haley to New Athens, Mississippi River District, ½ new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” serving as a pastor, “but, that’s a white church, and you’re black!
those of the writers and do not necessarily
reflect the views of The Current, The IGRC, or time, effective July 1. How do we eliminate racism in the church? First and fore- How’d you get to be their pastor?”
The UMC. most, by allowing Jesus Christ to be the standard of the church. The Lord gave me the perfect answer and I began sharing it,
Tim Pate to Keyesport, Mississippi River District, ¼
Christlikeness must become the pursuit of every Christian and “well, I looked so much like Jesus that the committee searching
Communications Team time, effective July 1.
15 of every congregation. Our goal, according to Ephesians 6:11- for a pastor couldn’t turn me down!”
Leader: Paul E. Black
Bruce Baumberger to Granite City Niedringhaus, 13, is to become mature representatives of Jesus Christ. “So Christ
Team members: Kim Halusan, Michele Willson God Bless
Mississippi River District, ¼ time, effective July 1. himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pas-
Send materials to: Bishop Beard
P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794-9207 Therese Melena to Cornerstone and to Ashley,
or tel. 217.529.2040 or fax 217.529.4155 Kaskaskia River District, effective July 1. This is a
thecurrent@igrc.org, website www.igrc.org
Periodical postage paid at Peoria, IL, and
separate appointment, serving ¼ time at both churches.
Judy Doyle to Green Valley, Illinois River District, ¼
Deaths Bissey?obId=15146999
Condolences may be sent to a daughter, Janet Leist,
Vantrease Funeral Home is entrusted with the
arrangements. Visit www.vantreasefuneralhome.
additional mailing offices. The Rev. Dorothy Isaacs, 84, com for a complete obituary and to sign the online
time, effective July 1. died June 27 in Springfield. 1211 E. Hall St., Olney, IL 62450.
POSTMASTER: Please send address register book.
Kim Allen to New Baden, Mississippi River District, ¾ Isaacs served as pastor of New Ken L. Burrus, 59, spouse of IGRC
changes to The Current, Illinois Great Rivers IGRC retired pastor Ralph Totten,
Conference, P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL time, effective July 1. Hope UMC for 20 years in both as a pastor, the Rev. Joy Schlesselman,
died June 15 in Peoria. 89, died June 5 in Mt. Vernon.
62794-9207 April Patek to Prairieview Parish (Macon UMC) and local pastor and supply.
A complete obituary can be Rev. Totten served 43 years in
to Decatur First: Associate, Sangamon River District, For a complete obituary, visit:
found by visiting: https://www. active ministry in the former
effective July 1. These are two separate appointments https://www.bramleyfh.com/obituary/Dorothy-Isaacs,
thewiltonmortuary.com/ Southern Illinois Conference,
each ½ time. This is her first appointment in the IGRC as where condolences may be left for the family.
obituaries/Ken-L-Burrus?obId=15076747 retiring in 1993 from Granite City
a provisional deacon.
Ada Belle Bissey, 100, widow of Niedringhaus. He is the brother of retired pastor, the
Vernon Acklin to East St. Louis Trinity and Bethalto, Rev. Kenneth "Doc" Bissey, died Condolences may be sent to Rev. Joy Schlesselman, Rev. Sam Totten.
Mississippi River District, effective July 1. These June 20 in Olney. 1068 Southcreek Dr., Manteno, IL 60950-3779.
For a complete obituary, visit: https://www.
are separate appointments of ¼ time and ¾ time Former local pastor Jean
Together with her husband, the hugheyfh.com/obituaries/Reverend-Ralph-Austin-
respectively. Rev. Acklin is a clergy member of the Webster, 88, died June 7 in
Bisseys served in the former Totten?obId=14960107
Tennessee Annual Conference and this is his first Royalton.
Southern Illinois Conference, Condolences may be sent to his wife, Jennie L. Totten,
appointment in the IGRC.
retiring from Odin-Shattuc in 1983. Rev. Bissey served She served several congregations 12310 N. Youngstown Ln., Woodlawn, IL 62898-4102
Gregory R. Coates to Glasford, Illinois River District, at Noble and Landes in retirement before his death over a 15-year period - both and to his brother, the Rev. Sam Totten, 812 Osage Dr.,
effective July 1. Rev. Coates is a clergy member of March 9, 2010. as a part-time local pastor and Mt. Vernon, IL 62864.
another denomination and this is his first appointment a retired local pastor from 1999 to 2014. Her last
A complete obituary can be found by visiting: https://
in the IGRC. appointment was to Greenwood UMC.
www.kistler-patterson.com/obituaries/Ada-Belle-
Tabitha Nelson to Maryville St. Luke, Mississippi River
District, effective July 1.
Cody Battefeld to Coulterville-Tilden-Marissa,
River District, ½ time, effective July 1. Kyle Armentrout Steward to Spiritual Direction Intern, less than ¼ time, effective July 1. This is his first-time
Mississippi River District, effective July 1.
Yiwen Bi to Mossville, Illinois River District, effective Aquina School of Theology, ¼ time, effective July 1. assignment in the IGRC.
J. Michael Smith to Salem Grace, Kaskaskia River
July 1. Deborah Rhodes to Farmington-Norris, Illinois River Bill Schell to New Burnside-Taylor, Cache River District,
APPOINTMENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Change of status assignment, Kaskaskia River District, effective June 30. Mississippi River District, effective June 30. District, effective July 15.
Joe Tomich to Virginia-Fairview, LaMoine River District, District, ½ time, effective July 1. ¼ time, effective July 1. This is his first-time assignment
Steve Heisner to Karnak, Cache River District, ¼ time, Amos Dillman, discontinuation of appointment as a Dennis Price, discontinuation of appointment, Gerald Savage, discontinuation of appointment, Ken Hayden to Louisville, Kaskaskia River District, 1/4 in the IGRC.
¾ time, effective July 1. Roger Russell to Eldorado-Wesley Chapel, Cache River
effective July 1. He will continue to serve Belknap-West full-time local pastor, Vermilion River District, effective Mississippi River District, effective Aug. 31, 2019. Mississippi River District, effective June 30. time, effective July 1.
Robert Thompson to Salem, Embarras River District, District, ½ time, effective July 1. Michael Madden to Springfield Cotton Hill, Sangamon
Eden as a separate assignment. July 1. Matthew Bachman, discontinuation of appointment, William Fairbanks, discontinuation of supply not John McIntosh to Shiloh, Iroquois River District, River District, effective July 1. This is his first-time
½ time, effective July 1. Supply not appointed
Charge realignments Matthew Stevens, discontinuation of appointment Mississippi River District, effective June 30. He will appointed assignment, effective June 30. ¼ time, effective July 1. This is in addition to his assignment in the IGRC.
as a part-time local pastor, Sangamon River District, be continuing candidacy by attending seminary at appointment to Pesotum. Shawna Bunnell to Chaddock: Outreach Church Catherine J. Thomas to Tolono-Sadorus, Iroquois River
Steve Barrett to Carlyle First, Mississippi River District, Peggy Emmert, discontinuation of appointment, Relations Manager, LaMoine River District, effective District, ¾ time, effective Oct. 1. This is her first IGRC Mike Rousey to Xenia, Kaskaskia River District, ¼ time,
effective July 1. Princeton University. Spoon River District, effective July 1. Chuck Trent to Kansas, Embarras River District, ¼ effective June 1.
effective June 1. This is a charge realignment. Carlyle is July 1. assignment.
now on a single-point charge. George Garrietts, discontinuation of a supply not Richard Morgan, discontinuation of a supply not time, effective July 1.
Dan Wright, discontinuation of appointment, Spoon Stephen Pichaske to Washington St. Mark’s Lutheran Marcia McQuality Brelsfoard, discontinuation of Rae DeLao to Salem Trinity-Iuka, Kaskaskia River
appointed assignment, Illinois River District, effective appointed assignment, Cache River District. River District, effective June 30. Robert Adams to Bellflower-Mt. Vernon, Iroquois River District, effective July 1.
Robert Souders to Huey-Beckemeyer, Mississippi Church (ELCA), interim associate pastor, Illinois River assignment, effective July 1.
River District, effective June 1. This is a charge July 1. Faye Edmiaston to Bunker Hill, Mississippi River District, ¾ time, effective July 1.
Kenneth Bunker, discontinuation of supply not District, effective July 1. Jacob Wetterlin to Litchfield St. Timothy, Mississippi Lorinda Carlson to Maples Mill, Illinois River District,
realignment where the two churches were previously Lois Sorrill, discontinuation of supply, not appointed District, ¼ time, effective May 20. This is a status appointed assignment, Kaskaskia River District, John Walter to Granite City Trinity, Mississippi River ½ time, effective July 1.
yoked with Carlyle First. assignment, LaMoine River District, effective July 1. change to retired local pastor. Lana Jean Robyne to Missiologist, Friendly Planet River District, ½ time, effective Sept. 1, 2019.
effective June 30. District, ¼ time, effective March 15.
Missiology, Iroquois River District, effective July 1. Norman Wilson to Scottland, Embarras River District,
Diane Goff, discontinuation of supply not appointed David Nottrot, discontinuation of appointment, Jackie Havis-Shear to Granite City Trinity, Mississippi APPOINTMENTS CONTINUED ON ADJACENT PAGE
Announcements & Events Christian Conversations
the current |
the current |
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Download a flyer at: https://igrc-reg.brtapp. to learn skills that will help them deal Society and Benefit Fund is suspending all
more effectively with interpersonal, gatherings until further notice due to the
Police reform must involve reconciliation
com/files/2020_bishopsopencancelled_8hx11_
flyer.jpg (all of the spaces are underscores congregational and other forms of group COVID-19 virus.
JULY 2020
JULY 2020
between words). conflict. Please know we are receiving a lot of
2 Aldersgate 2020 goes virtual A $200 discount is available to all those phone calls, which is understandable, and 3
who register for the MSTI in Glen Ellyn no we will return calls as soon as we can. BY THE REV. SHAWN R. MOORE I encountered both good and bad officers. I’ve but the power of the cross.
GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. – Aldersgate later than July 3. seen the best and worst things happen within law The cross has the ability to redeem all things
Renewal Ministries has announced that All staff of PASBF are encouraged to ST. PAUL, Minn. (UM News)
enforcement, like most jobs. But unlike most jobs, and all situations. It is the cross that has the ability
Bishop's 'Golf-less' Open 2020 Aldersgate 2020, its National Conference Register online at: https://lmpeacecenter.org/ stay healthy. A staff member may not be – We continue to live in times of
police and other law enforcement officers carry to remove barriers that hinder authentic relation-
SPRINGFIELD – Although the Covid-19 on Spirit-Filled Living will be held online for events-page/registration/ able to make visits in hospitals, nursing unrest as it relates to law enforce-
facilities, in homes or at funerals due to the ment and the black community the weight of violence—use of force— and detain- ships. The time for reform is now.
pandemic forced the cancellation of the the first time July 8-11. The conference was
previously scheduled to be at the Peoria
Conference Center closed possibility of infection. Please know we can and the protests since the death ment— arrest. Maybe the day of the warrior is gone, maybe
2020 Bishop's Open, Bishop Beard is Anyone who has such authority given to them we need more of a guardian-type law enforcement.
Civic Center. SPRINGFIELD – In accordance with be reached by phone, and we join with of George Floyd in police custody
hosting a "Golf-less Open," in which golfers needs to be well suited psychologically, and well That is why I train them.
the Governor's Executive Order, the you on this uncertain journey. Our phone have drawn the nation’s attention to these issues.
and non-golfers alike can participate. All The conference theme is Breaking the trained for the job. Those who stand in the dark places, those who
Conference Center is closed until further numbers are below: The history of law enforcement and blacks
proceeds of the Golf-less Open will be for Chains, taken from Psalms 107:13-14. Many will say that the system is messed up. run towards the roar, those who are willing to trade
notice. dates back to the 1800s, when slave patrols and
the Our Conference, Our Kids campaign • Keith Anderson – 217-725-6904 My response to that is of course it is! Every system their lives need to be trained by folks who still
to endow spiritual life programs at each Visit the event website for more Conference staff are working from home plantation police used brutality as a means to con-
information and to register online at: • Ed Weston – 618-806-6819 trol blacks. Such practices continued in the 1960s created by humans will be flawed and sinful. believe that the best is yet to come, and can still be
of the five conference agencies dealing and responding to emails. Email addresses I have had major joys, and also lows as a police able hold them accountable for bad behavior.
with children and youth -- The Baby Fold, https://aldersgateconference.org/ can be found on the Conference Staff • Carol Sims – 217-899-2880 with “sundown laws” that were enforced by local
law enforcement during the era of Jim Crow. officer. I learned a lot about living by a code of I tend to work in the gray, neither black nor
Chaddock, Cunningham Home, Lessie Mediation skills training page. • Sharon Monroe – 309-377-2032 honor and compassion. I know what it’s like to be white. My experiences within law enforcement
Bates Davis Neighborhood House and Some might argue that things haven’t changed,
going virtual The United Media Resource Center is also • Floyd and Bobbi Blackard – while others will argue that things have indeed willing to put it all on the line for another person, haven’t taken away from me, but have benefited me
Spero (formerly the United Methodist closed during this time. Resources cannot to move beyond lip service and be willing to give as a clergyperson.
GLEN ELLYN – The Lombard Mennonite 217-825-7303 changed. I tend to fall into the camp that we have
Children's Home). be sent out during this time but you can your life if necessary. I find these attributes to be I have over 10 years of combined work in law
Peace Center has announced its Mediation • Bob Edwards – 618-954-0524 slightly moved the needle forward, but more work
Please consider donating your entry fee to reach Jill Stone by email at umrc@igrc.org. is still needed. biblical, and at the very same time, how do I recon- enforcement and in law enforcement training. I
Skills Training Institute this summer will be • Cindy Jones (Florida) – 239-771-3027 cile this with police treatment of black folks? teach Reconciliation Studies at Bethel University
ADVANCE 6960. Help OUR KIDS feel the My friends, colleagues and family members
hope for sunshine on their faces and the
held online. Preachers' Aid Society As a clergyperson I truly believe that I have and Criminal Justice and Diversity at Metro State
Do not hesitate to reach out to PASBF if ask me two questions.
warmth of Christ in their hearts. The 2020 summer event will be Aug. information you have any questions or concerns. As a black male, why did I become a police of- been given the ministry of reconciliation (Apo- University. I am black and I’m a clergyperson. I am
3-7. The workshop is designed for clergy SPRINGFIELD – After consultation with ficer? And why do I continue to train police officers katallasso: To have things return to a nature order). a spiritual warrior, and a reconciler. I am what I say
Donate to Our Conference, Our Kids at:
and other church leaders who wish the local health department, Preachers’ Aid to this day? The first question isn’t complicated, it’s This becomes difficult for many to hear I am!
https://igrc-reg.brtapp.com/bishopsopen2020
pretty basic. While I was in the U.S. Navy, I was a because of the history of police interaction with (Moore is senior pastor at The Beloved, a United
security specialist. Once I got out of the military, I blacks. I still use the word reconciliation and study Methodist Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, and for-
got a job in the field in which I had worked. it as a means to guide my training. It’s not about a mer U.S. Navy security specialist and a former police
Christian Conversations As a police officer in Brooklyn Center, Minn., time between humans ever being in right accord, officer.)
COMMUNICATING CROSS-CULTURALLY REAL CHANGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
Extended Cabinet, conference staff
TO HELP CREATE REAL CHANGE social justice as standard or superior? And are they able celebrate on July 4th, Independence Day, were freedoms
media honest, well-told stories of minds, hearts
and lives being transformed. The stories and the
talent able and willing to communicate them will
Issued June 15, 2020
The Illinois Great Rivers Extended Cabinet and
representative of God’s shalom, we call upon our members,
friends, institutions, and partners to engage in acts that build
BY JOHN W. COLEMAN expand. Conference Staff of The United Methodist Church believe God’s peaceable kingdom on Earth.
For church leaders to effectively com- to appreciate the contrasts and commonalities that exist denied to Americans of color for many decades. that the Church is the living body of Christ. We are
among different races, cultures and social experiences? Tell your local news media. Don’t hide it, but
municate beyond their congregation and Learn and share partner churches’ histories as you share instead “let your light shine before others, so that committed to leading the Conference in its call to eradicate Toward this end we encourage local congregations to
culture — that is, to reach a broader, Communicating such insights and values with your con- your own. But acknowledge and lament where racial they may see your good works and give glory to racism in any form. explore root causes of racism; develop local partnerships
dissimilar audience — they should try to gregation internally can help with that. Use your church prejudice, discrimination and even oppression may have your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) We stand on the Biblical foundation that all persons to address and redress current racism both locally and
forge a true, interpersonal connection website, newsletter, bulletin, audiovisual presentations and caused separation and alienation. Don’t avoid tough but il- are created by God and all persons are to live without the nationally; prayerfully seek God’s will for reconciliation
social media to educate members about races, cultures luminating conversations; keep them grounded in Christian Others will be drawn to your light. This is about bondage of fear and alienation as they seek to fully develop based on acts of repentance for American racism, and
with those persons they want to reach.
and justice concerns, to encourage them to seek and learn love and mutual respect. Maybe use Jesus’ Beatitudes (Mat- making disciples and helping to transform both their God given gifts. We acknowledge that all United embrace faith-based education for all ages on anti-racism.
But it would help to also do some homework.
more, and to engage them in new, formative outreach thew 5:3-10) as a touchstone for your discourse. the church and the world. So, be creative, Methodists are called to work toward enhancing attitudinal
How do you connect? You “go ye therefore” into the new mission-focused, strategic and honest. And always Frank Beard, Bishop of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference
milieu — preferably with an arranged invitation and host encounters and experiences. Consider using these com- The talks may be tense at times, possibly even traumatic
and systemic changes in whatever forms they are reflecting Janice Griffith, Executive Assistant to the Bishop
munication tools to share information available at umc. be faithfully sharing the gospel internally and ex- evil. We affirm our responsibility to embrace the diversity
— not to teach but to learn, “not to be understood but to for some. They may even require the aid of a group coun- ternally, using new words and new ways to grow Carol Lakota Eastin, Co-Dean of Cabinet and
understand,” as St. Francis of Assisi would counsel. org/EndRacism and to encourage others to visit and share selor or a helpful video resource to guide such intercul-
of God’s creativity in breathing life into all, and to work Kaskaskia River District Superintendent
the page. and enhance your witness. diligently in assisting all communities to move toward being
Then you meet and greet various people, talk a little, listen tural dialogues. But they should be always prayerful and Mary Kathryn Pearce, Co-Dean of Cabinet and
Collaborate to arrange ongoing cross-racial, cross-cultural influenced by the redemptive power of the Holy Spirit. Want more ideas? Here are some offered by inclusive of all of God’s children. Illinois River District Superintendent
a lot and learn as much as you can. Then learn some more. Cathy Bruce, Kentucky Conference Director of We are called to stand and deliver in every congregation
conversations, Bible and book studies, celebrations, wor- Participating churches should also share visions and plans
James Barnett, Vermillion River District Superintendent
Be curious and compassionate, non-judgmental and ship and special programs, Sunday school, vacation Bible Communications: and community the immensity of God’s love for all persons Stan Irvin, Cache River District Superintendent
transparent, friendly but unforced. Make new friends. Yes, it for their futures. Perhaps those may alter as this outreach in such a time as this.
school and other activities. Start small, but as soon as ministry grows and creates new energy, ideas and selfless • Be open to different musical genres. Have Stephen Granadosin, Spoon River District Superintendent
can be easier said than done, but it’s always doable if you We are sorry for our part and seek to repent from the
possible, plan, prepare and promote together a yearlong aspirations, maybe even a new or deeper appreciation of your choir/musicians experiment with differ- Angie Lee, Iroquois River District Superintendent
“open wide your hearts,” in the Apostle Paul’s words (2 long history of racism and racial discrimination against
calendar of meetings and events. Don’t be narrow-minded, our shared responsibility to pursue racial equity, peace and ent styles of music. Try finding old standards Charliam Renner, Embarras River District Superintendent
Corinthians 6:11-13). people of color that is part of our churches and communities.
but reach beyond your United Methodist connection to social justice for all. but with a twist, a version that’s reminiscent Nicholas Showalter, LaMoine River District Superintendent
The United Methodist Church has held a strong stance
At some point you should read recommended books engage people and churches of other pan-Methodist and of a different culture. Allynn Walker, Mississippi River District Superintendent
Work together to ensure that these outreaching, con- denouncing racism, and we seek to more fully embody this
and articles (see: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ non-Methodist denominations. • Pair your youth group with another youth Bradley Watkins, Sangamon River District Superintendent
nective efforts do not become stale or aimless or fail to commitment to inclusion and anti-racism.
books-about-race-a-place-to-start), view recommended Celebrate racial-ethnic histories, heroes and heritage group from a different culture/ethnicity. Paul Black, Director of Communications
grow. Celebrate milestones. Form close bonds of friend- We recognize the implicit bias within ourselves,
television programs and other media content, visit recom- months of the year: Young people are always more than willing Curtis Brown, Director of Connectional Ministries
ship. But also be fruitful and multiply. Keep identifying and our congregations, and our Illinois Great Rivers Annual
mended websites and social media pages. Do it “for the to learn from one another and to see one Mike Potts, Director of Finance and Administration
• Black (February) enlisting fresh leadership and new approaches. Constantly Conference. We believe in the power of the Holy Spirit to
culture” (a popular hip-hop expression) — not to change other as just people. Mike Crawford, Coordinator of Congregational Development
• Asian/Pacific American (May) invite others to join — maybe even guests who are not a work within us the grace of sanctification so that we might
your culture but to transcend it. • Share with your congregations the rich his- Beth Fender, Coordinator of Discipleship and New Streams
• Hispanic/Latino (mid-September to mid-October) part of the participating churches. Remember Jesus’ Great become more holy. We affirm that holiness is more than
tory of HBCUs (historically black colleges Curt Franklin, Associate Coordinator of Camping
Our United Methodist mission is “To make disciples of • Native American (November) Commission. Always be outreaching. just personal but also includes societal transformation. In
and universities) affiliated with The United and Youth Ministry
Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” But we confronting racism, we commit ourselves to do the work of
Celebrate Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day and Try using video-conferencing and livestreaming platforms Methodist Church. Patric Newton, Coordinator of Camping, Retreat,
are learning today that our church needs transformation personal study, institutional reform, congregational renewal, and Youth Ministries
as well, especially in how we understand the world in all its Jubilee Day, celebrated by many Black Americans on June to widely share personal and group testimonies, inter- (John W. Coleman is Director of Communications for and social advocacy.
19. The day honors the day in 1865 when President Abra- views, dialogues, town hall meetings, produced video Amy Shreve, Coordinator for Higher Education, Campus,
diversity, where Christ calls us to go and to be. the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United We believe that the lives of black people matter and and Young Adult Ministry and Associate Coordinator
ham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation (1863), which stories, cultural arts and celebrations. Methodist Church.) deserve our intentional focus and commitment to resist
Are your church members talking about matters of race, freed the slaves, was read to enslaved African-Americans for Congregational Development
culture and social justice? Are they able to do it from a Let your churches and communities know what is hap- the societal and ecclesial threats and barriers to black lives Shauna Summers, Coordinator, Office of Pastoral Care
in southern Texas, months after the Civil War had ended. pening in this ministry. Share in digital, print and video thriving.
non-ethnocentric perspective — that is, not seeing their More Americans should realize that the freedoms we and Counseling
own race and culture, their own limited understanding of REAL CHANGE CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 As people called by God to build and nurture institutions
Statements on Anti-Racism from Cabinet, NCJ College of Bishops, College of Biships Bishop's Column
the current |
the current |
Tears from a bedside lament
BY BISHOP FRANK J. BEARD and the world have seen the video of a man handcuffed face Methodist Church, so I know that the
United Methodist bishops: Act now I sat on the side of the bed and I wept. down on the pavement, clearly not resisting as a police officer
pinned him down by placing his knee on Mr. Floyd’s neck for
work we need to do runs deeper than
just singing a few verses of Kum Ba Yah,
JULY 2020
JULY 2020
These were emotion-filled tears of relief, anger, joy, pain, and over eight minutes. and shedding a few crocodile tears. I am
4
to end racism and white supremacy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the aftermath of police before us, “There is more than one pandemic ravaging
disbelief. The tears I cried that night were not just for me. I
cried for the generations of folks that were so broken and
systematically oppressed that they never thought a day like
"I can't breathe," Mr. Floyd said repeatedly, before becoming
nonresponsive and dying.
not opposed to Kum Ba Yah, because
we need a fresh visitation from the
Lord. And I am definitely not afraid of
5
today possible. It has become increasingly clear that despite the significant tears that flow from genuine remorse and repentance. I am
killings of unarmed Black people, the bishops of The Minnesota and our country at this time. In addition to
I cried for my grandmother, on my father’s side, whose gains in race relations, America still has a long way to go. suggesting that to simply begin and then abruptly end when
United Methodist Church called on all United Methodists fighting COVID-19, we are besieged by a pandemic of
parents were born into slavery and suffered through Could this latest assault become the true zeitgeist that we this current crisis subsides is not sufficient.
June 8 to act now by using their voices, pens, feet and racism, white supremacy, and white on black or brown
reconstruction and the institution of “Jim Crow” laws. I cried need? Will George Floyd’s name and story simply become
hearts to end racism. violence.” We need continual, intentional holy disruptions that keep us
for the thousands of teenage boys, like Emmett Till, ruthlessly the latest addition to an ever-growing list of African American
In a statement released by Council of Bishops President The voice of Bishop LaTrelle Easterling, resident Bishop of another. In a recent podcast, “Unlocking Us,” lecturer, author men that have died because of this nation’s racial intolerance? from returning to our comfort zones. As Christ followers we
and podcast host, Brene Brown, hosted author, historian and battered and brutally murdered for no reason, other than must stop accepting any behavior that is not Christ-centered.
Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, the bishops are urging the BaltimoreWashington area, gave power to the realities, Will our nation continue to unravel and spin out of control
American University professor, Ibram X. Kendi who said, “By racial hatred, and crossing a line of taboo. This will mean that we quit normalizing racism and prejudice
every United Methodist to reclaim their baptismal vows to “Being Black is not a pre-existing condition; being Black is because of this recent tragedy?
resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they not justification for probable cause; being Black is not to be not running from the books that pain us, we can allow them I cried for the Civil Rights workers abused, cursed at, spit upon, in the body of Christ. It is no longer acceptable for churches
to transform us. I ran from antiracist books most of my life. disrespected, bombarded and soaked with fire hoses, attacked It’s time for THE CHURCH to step-up and to lead the way to deny people because they happen to be of a different
present themselves. inherently suspicious nor suspect. Being Black is a gift from
But now I can’t stop running after them – scrutinizing myself by dogs, assaulted with rocks and bottles, and jailed simply forward. I know that the church has been more problematic ethnic origin. It has never been God’s intent that racism
“We ask every United Methodist to name the egregious sin Almighty God and a manifestation of an aspect of God.”
and my society, and in the process changing both.” May we because they were seeking to dismantle a cruel unjust system. than problem-solving, but I still believe that the Church of should exist, let alone thrive, within the body of Christ.
of racism and white supremacy and join together to take These prophetic voices and those of others have provided listen not only with our ears but with our hearts and run Jesus Christ can and should lead our nation and our world
a stand against the oppression and injustice that is killing words when we had none. I cried for my own father, who never learned to read or write, into a brighter future. The healing balm that is needed right The Holy Spirit, poured out at Pentecost, was given to
after books, podcasts and conversations that transform teach us and lead us in the ways of Christlikeness. Unity is
persons of color,” the statement said. who was discouraged and denied access to an education now has always resided within the church’s capabilities. It’s
As bishops of the United Methodist Church, we ask every entire communities. a central core of becoming more and more like Jesus. We
because, in the words of his dad’s Mississippi boss, “all he time for the church to put on our work clothes and to get
The bishops said they are joining with other church leaders United Methodist to reclaim their baptismal vows to For at least the next 30 days, we ask every United were promised that the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ powerful presence
needs is a good strong back, and a willingness to work hard.” busy dismantling racism.
and boards and agencies of the United Methodist Church resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they Methodist everywhere to join in prayer at 8:46 a.m. in a different form, would assist the church in becoming
to add strength to the message that “we will no longer present themselves. Yes, I cried when the projections were all in and it was Even as I write this, I am aware that the battle within the
and p.m. for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the time the triumphant witnesses and world changers. Let’s not settle for
remain silent nor complicit but must act now!” announced that the 44th President of the United States was church will be harder than the battle outside of its sacred walls.
We ask every United Methodist to name the officer held his knee on George Floyd’s neck. Do this for anything less.
a man of African-American descent. As a black man serving in a majority-based denomination
As part of the that pledge, for at least the next 30 days, all egregious sin of racism and white supremacy and at least the next 30 days. Pray for all persons of color who I cried over the death of George Floyd. I cry today over the
United Methodists everywhere are asked to join in prayer join together to take a stand against the oppression and suffer at the hands of injustice and oppression. Pray for our Don’t get me wrong. My tears were not because I thought I’ve seen the underbelly of the church and have experienced
institutional racism from within for over 40 years of ministry. mayhem that has ensued. I cry and I pray, “Lord, break my
at 8:46 a.m. and p.m. for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the time injustice that is killing persons of color. As bishops of the church as we take a stand against racism. imagine the power that black folks had finally “arrived” at some mythical place
God has not given up on the church and I believe and trust heart with the things that break your heart.” I cry knowing
the officer held his knee on George Floyd’s neck. “Pray for whole church we affirm the peaceful protests as a means of of a concert of prayer heard around the world. where hundreds of years of racism, animosity, and injustice
that God can and will turn things around and the church will that the church, especially the people called United Methodist,
all persons of color who suffer at the hands of injustice and giving voice where it is needed most. would magically disappear. I’ve lived and dealt with enough
And finally, to borrow from Bishop Easterling once again, be the instrument used to accomplish the world that we seek. have a long way to go before we are where God desires. I
oppression. Pray for our church as we take a stand against challenges, in my own lifetime, to know better. But I did think
We are clear that it is beyond time for all United “The time is now. Dismantle the architecture of whiteness cry, but not as one without hope for a better tomorrow.
racism.” that this historic election was a turning point, a Zeitgeist It’s time to confess the sins of our past, repent, embrace
Methodists to act. It is time to use our voices, our pens, and white supremacy; stop creating, implementing and I cry with the calm and confident assurance, anchored by the
moment signaling a change of direction. reconciliation and begin to chart a new path for moving forward
The full statement is as follows: our feet and our heart for change. supporting policies that perpetuate economic injustice; stop faith and same belief in Jesus Christ, as those who have gone
the dog-whistle political maneuverings which incite violence On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a black man, was arrested as sisters and brothers rooted in the sustaining love of Jesus
The past few weeks have left many hurt, angry and We join with other church leaders and boards and agencies Christ. I know that it sounds simple enough, but it is hard work. before me, that: “We shall overcome. We shall overcome. We
against people of color; commit to being an anti-racist; stop for suspicion of using a counterfeit $20 bill to purchase a pack
outraged as we have witnessed the deaths of unarmed of the United Methodist Church to add strength to the shall overcome some day. Oh, deep in my heart, I do believe,
over-policing Black and brown bodies; stop using deadly of cigarettes. Details of his arrest are sketchy, but the nation I’ve spent my entire working life around The United
Black persons at the hands of police and racism; Ahmaud message that we will no longer remain silent nor we shall overcome some day!”
force in ordinary police interactions with Black and brown
Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and the countless complicit but must act now!
people. Stop killing us.”
others whose names are known only to mothers, fathers,
sisters, brothers and friends.
As a next faithful step we ask United Methodists to read
all they can on the subject of anti-racism and engage
May the God of Grace and Peace be with you.
Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey
Simple strategic steps for Christians seeking to do something significant
Many bishops have worked to amplify and magnify one in conversations with children, youth and adults. Have BY BISHOP FRANK J. BEARD in telling ethnic jokes in private or in public. The long- 5. Recognize that America is NOT a “melting pot”
another’s voices. The words of Bishop Bruce Ough, resident conversations with coworkers and friends. These will not be President - Council of Bishops
Dealing with racism is not easy and it takes a lot of range goal is to confront racism and to begin the process but rather a “garden salad” containing a blend of
Bishop of Minneapolis area, were a clarion call to the crisis easy but they will help us gain a greater appreciation for one The United Methodist Church
energy and forethought that will often move us into un- of removing racism from our systems in order that justice unique colors and flavors meant to be experi-
comfortable places. and fairness may be attained by all. enced together. DO NOT give in to the myth
NCJ College of Bishops commit to anti-racism Speaking up and out is important, even though peo- Christians can join in the call to address systemic that you must be “color blind.”
ple often are scared to say anything because they worry injustice and discrimination by: 6. Seek to identify with those that are marginalized
that if they say the wrong thing, they might get in trouble 1. Becoming aware of policies and practices that and who face the effects of a system that thrives
(Editor’s note: Issued June 12, 2020 by the College wholeness.” Because racism is deeply rooted in our his- or find themselves being labeled. promote disparities based on race, ethnicity, and survives on racist behavior and practices.
of Bishops of the North Central Jurisdiction of The tory, it is also deeply entangled in our minds, our hearts, It is crucial for Christians to create safe sanctuaries stereotypes, or economic status.
United Methodist Church. The North Central Jurisdic- and our systems. 7. Use the power of your own personal finances by
where we can have difficult conversations about racism 2. By employing the use of empathetic listening taking a stand with your money. Be aware of the
tion is comprised of 10 annual conferences of the Upper We confess and denounce our own complicity. We and other topics that promote injustice.
Midwestern United States of which the Illinois Great take a stand against any and all expressions of racism and that is engaging and helps with validating the practices of those with whom you do business.
Where should we start and what is the expected feelings and personal experiences of persons
Rivers is a part.) white supremacy, beginning with the racial, cultural, and outcome? 8. Create safe places for difficult conversations, uti-
“For Christ is our peace… he has broken down the class disparities highlighted by the coronavirus pandemic. of color, without being dismissive or making lizing people experienced in providing diversity
It is important to begin by addressing one’s own per- explanatory comments that seek to rationalize or
dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us.” --Ephesians We challenge government leaders who fan the flames of sonal experiences and feelings regarding racism, preju- training.
2:14 racial division for political gain. soothe away their pain.
dice, and discrimination. One’s background and familial 9. Develop and foster relationships with people of
The killing of George Floyd at the hands of police offi- Together we commit ourselves to our baptismal vows experience contributes significantly to the way that they 3. Learn to recognize and understand your own color based on mutual respect and concern for
cers in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 25 has rocked our to renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the perceive issues related to race, class, and culture. privilege and experiences that are based on skin each other’s well-being.
nation and world and pierced us to the core. The video evil powers of this world, to repent of our sin, and to As a follower of Christ, start by recognizing the need color and power.
image seared into our minds, hearts and souls is horrific, use the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, 10. As people of faith, pray for and with others, that
to address injustice in all its forms, in every place that it 4. Share your own story as you engage in tough
terrifying, disgusting and outrageous. While we’ve each injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present Jesus’ prayer for unity would become a reality.
exists, especially in the church. conversations about race and injustice. Your
made commitments and statements in our respective areas themselves. A start can be as simple as making a personal refusal God Bless,
It is lethal in brutally public ways, as in the deaths of story will help foster deeper understanding for
along with many of our cabinet members, we think it Together we commit ourselves the work of antiracism, to participate in the use of racial slurs or the participation Bishop Frank J. Beard
George Floyd or Ahmaud Arbery or Breonna Taylor. you and for others as you interact together.
important to speak together as the North Central Jurisdic- work well defined by Ibram X. Kendi in his book How To
It is lethal in quieter ways, in the effects of poverty,
tion College of Bishops. Be an Antiracist. “The opposite of ‘racist’ isn’t ‘not racist.’
lack of educational opportunities, sub-standard health
We affirm the work being done in each of our confer- It is ‘antiracist.’ One endorses either the idea of a racial hi- ANTI-RACISM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 the voices of those whose lives continue to be affected so The dividing wall of racism which has stood for too
care, lack of access to healthy foods, realities rooted in our
ences, the work of the Council of Bishops, the work of our erarchy as a racist, or racial equality as an antiracist. One and social work requiring courage, humility, deep listening profoundly by racism. We will use our voices and our long, needs dismantling. Moving the stones of this wall
country’s history: slavery, Jim Crow laws, redlining, sepa-
General Agencies, and the work of our ecumenical and either believes problems are rooted in groups of people, and love. We commit ourselves to antiracism not as some positions to advocate for reform in policing practices in requires heavy lifting, but the wall needs to be taken down.
rate but equal, native American displacement and trails of
interfaith partners in responding to this heartbreaking, as a racist, or locates the roots of problems in power and addendum to the work of the gospel, not as a sideline our communities so that those charged with protecting We commit ourselves to taking the stones from this divid-
tears. Throughout our jurisdiction, racism has an impact
soul-shattering event. policies, as an antiracist. One either allows racial inequi- social issue, but as a struggle for our souls, the soul of the and serving protect and serve all and do so in ways that ing wall and letting the power of God’s Spirit transfigure
on every community of color, including Native Americans,
The North Central Jurisdiction, a place of vibrant big ties to persevere, as a racist, or confronts racial inequali- church and the soul of the nation. de-escalate violence. We will promote antiracism as an these stones into stones of justice, peace, reconciliation
yet we acknowledge that anti-black racism has a unique
cities, small towns, fields, farms, forests, rivers, lakes, the ties, as an antiracist. There is no in-between safe space of Powerful opportunities for antiracism work have essential part of the journey with Jesus by encouraging and love, stones with which to build a road toward God’s
perniciousness in our history and society.
Great Lakes, prairies, is often known for being nice – Mid- ‘not racist.’ The claim of ‘not racist’ neutrality is a mask for presented themselves before and we have let them pass increasing awareness through the use of resources such as beloved community.
Together we affirm the teachings of The United
west nice. The brutal killing of George Floyd laid bare that racism.” by. We will not let this opportunity pass. We commit those provided by the General Commission on Religion
Methodist Church that racism is sin and antithetical to the Grace and Peace,
underneath the veneer of nice exists lingering and persis- We commit ourselves to this work in our lives and in ourselves to deep prayer for the eradication of racism in and Race, books such as White Fragility (Robin Diangelo)
gospel, “that racism is a rejection of the teachings of Jesus
tent racism, a racism that poisons our public life, stifles our church. This is heart work and hard work, soul work our lives, in our church, and in our society. We commit or How To Be an Antiracist, and tools such as the Intercul- The Bishops of the North Central Jurisdiction
Christ… denies the redemption and reconciliation of Jesus
God-given human potential and diminishes us all. Racism ourselves to listening more deeply to each other and to tural Developmental Inventory. Bishop David Bard,
Christ,” and “that racism robs all human beings of their
is as virulent a virus as the coronavirus and it is also lethal. ANTI-RACISM CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 President NCJ College of Bishops
Historical Messenger Illinois Great Rivers Conference
Local Church News
the current |
the current |
Volume 52, Number 3
July - September 2020
The Wesleyan witness on race
JULY 2020
JULY 2020
6 7
BY ANDREW C. THOMPSON When the Wesley brothers traveled to Charleston of the Christmas Conference in 1784 that established
The death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, (“Charlestown” at the time) in July and August the Methodist Episcopal Church (and served as the
and the public protests that followed in its wake have 1736 so that Charles could board a ship to sail back forerunner of the Book of Discipline) mandated the
served as a shocking reminder of the deep, unhealed to England, they heard eyewitness testimonies of catechism of black Americans and bluntly asked the
wounds in America around issues of race. It is hard the types of cruelties inflicted upon slaves by their question, “What methods can we take to extirpate
Photos cosurtesy of Hope Wright,
to imagine a more brutal and stark depiction of the owners. Charles’ journal is graphic in its descriptions slavery?” The answer for Methodists at the time was Springfield Jerome UMC and Riverton UMC
suffering of black America than the picture of a white of these acts, which amounted to torture and murder. that slavery was opposed both by the gospel and “every
Seamstresses from Springfield Jerome UMC filled a small
man with his knee on George Floyd’s neck, slowly He refers to “shocking instances of diabolical cruelty,” Principle of the Revolution” (echoing the dual appeal to
fence with facemasks offering them free to anyone who Photo courtesy of Steve Beilstein, Springfield First UMC
choking the life from him over the course of more including a Charleston dancing-master who whipped natural law and the Christian witness in John Wesley’s needed them. The handmade facemasks were placed in
a young enslaved woman almost to death and then earlier “Thoughts upon Slavery”). The minutes then go In days before social distancing was even a consideration, members
than eight minutes. In and of itself, Floyd’s killing individual bags with clothes pins and attached to a small of the Annual Conference gathered in local churches because its
was a wicked, heinous act. And as the protests and poured hot sealing wax on her bare skin. As Charles on to require that every slave owner must emancipate fence, similar to what goes around a garden. The masks membership was much smaller.
the public conversation since then have shown, it has relates, “Her crime was over-filling a tea cup.” his slaves on a timetable based on the enslaved person’s were offered in children, youth and adult sizes with the fence providing “no contact” delivery.
In his journal, Charles goes on to criticize a colonial age. The rules thus laid down constituted a “new Term Pictured in this photo is those that gathered in 1888 for Annual
also put in bold relief a series of unresolved issues in At Riverton UMC, a new supply of 87 new masks were hung June 23 at Riverton UMC. The church has distributed Conference of the Illinois Conference of the Methodist Episcopal
American society: the relationship of urban police government that essentially allowed slave owners of Communion,” and those who would not abide by more than 600 masks since its clothesline started. A total of $80 cash, clothes pins and material have been donated
to murder their slaves (a practice which he suggests them were to be literally excommunicated, or barred Church at Springfield First.
departments and black communities, the different for this outreach project.
happened frequently). There was a financial penalty from taking the Lord’s Supper. At that time, Annual Conference members were only clergy. There was
ways that black Americans and white Americans
for doing so, but the murderer could have it cut in half The early American Methodists’ determination to no lay representation.
experience day-to-day life, and the desperately
difficult time we have in even talking about such
things with one another.
by simply admitting to the act. Charles’ incredulity at
a system that allowed such a thing is expressed by his
shocked comment: “This I can look upon as no other
act counter-culturally (that is, in accordance with the
gospel) as regards race is also shown in the career of a
black Methodist preacher named Harry Hosier. He was
Congregations recognized by Safe Gatherings As the church’s work expanded into education and hospital endeavors,
many of these agency boards were staffed by laypersons. As a result,
General and Annual conferences began including lay members in
BY BETH FENDER • Cambridge UMC, Spoon River District
than a public act to indemnify murder.” a traveling companion of some of the most prominent IGRC Coordinator of Discipleship and New Streams • Mt. Vernon First UMC, Kaskaskia River District electing delegates.
The experience of the Wesleys with the institution white Methodist preachers of the day in the 1780s and Seven IGRC congregations have met the requirements • Chillicothe First UMC, Illinois River District In 1872, the MEC General Conference included two lay delegates
of slavery while in America stayed with them. In 1774, 90s, including Francis Asbury and Freeborn Garrettson. for recognition by Safe Gatherings for their work • Edwardsville Immanuel UMC, Mississippi River from each annual conference. The definition of “layman” at this time
John Wesley published the treatise “Thoughts upon In his journal, Garrettson describes preaching missions to ensure their staff and volunteers are background District was “members of the Church who are not members of the Annual
Slavery,” where he criticized slavery as contrary to both with Harry Hosier as his traveling companion, and he checked and trained to protect vulnerable people. • Robinson First UMC, Embarras River District Conference,” since the membership of the annual conferences were still
natural law and the Christian gospel. His natural law remarks on Hosier’s preaching ability and the positive assemblies of the traveling preachers in those days.
• Shiloh UMC, Mississippi River District
appeal is aimed at the idea that every human being is reception he received from white congregations. COVID-19 has had numerous repercussions for
• Bloomington Wesley UMC, Vermilion River A Special Electoral Conference was held on the third day of Annual
deserving of basic freedom. Wesley writes, “Liberty Thomas Coke became acquainted with Hosier during churches and faith-based organizations, not the least Conference, with one layperson attending from each local church or
District
is the right of every human creature, as soon as he his first trip to America in 1784, and he commented of which is remote programming and online worship. charge (then called stations or circuits).
breathes the vital air; and no human law can deprive on the enthusiastic response Hosier received from We are now seeing some organizations across the Safe Gatherings is an online abuse prevention
program that screens and educates staff and volun- In 1888, five women were elected from their respective Electoral
him of that right which he derives from the law of audiences both black and white. “I really believe that he country begin to return to services, and we know
Conferences came to the MEC General Conference. The General
nature.” Yet Wesley’s ultimate appeal is specifically is one of the best preachers in the world,” Coke records that programs for children and youth will follow teers to help prevent abuse of children, youth, and
Conference refused to seat them, arguing that “layman” meant male.
Christian in character, which he states in the form in his journal. “There is such an amazing power [that] when the time is right. vulnerable adults in group settings. When employ- Another 12 years and three General Conferences passed before the
ees and volunteers are trained to identify potential word “layman” was replaced by “lay member,” opening the door for
of a prayer at the essay’s end: “O thou God of love, attends his preaching, though he cannot read; and he is When they do return, you can rest assured that
abusers, recognize the signs of abuse, and know how women to participate and equalizing the number of lay and clergy
thou who art loving to every man, and whose mercy one of the humblest creatures I ever saw.” these churches are doing their part to protect them
to handle reporting, they are better equipped to members to General Conference. These provisions began in 1904 and
is over all thy works ... Have compassion upon these When set against the historical period in which through training and screening those who serve.
prevent abuse. For more information, visit: www.igrc. applied to both General and Annual Conference gatherings.
What is missing (or at least less visible) in the outcasts of men, who are trodden down as dung upon they lived, these testimonies of early Methodists on The following churches were recognized for the first
org/safegatherings.
conversation over the past several weeks is a robust the earth! Arise, and help these that have no helper, both sides of the Atlantic Ocean are prophetic in the quarter of 2020:
element of how the Christian church, and the witness whose blood is spilt upon the ground like water! ... biblical sense of that word—they call people to a way
of Christian believers, ought to be playing a role in Thou Savior of all, make them free, that they may be of living faithfully to the word of God and anticipating
free indeed!” In the treatise, Wesley takes aim at both of life in the kingdom. They can and should serve as would be separate from white congregations and that from Pentecost onward is aimed at healing the confusion
helping to address racial disparities and heal racial WESLEYAN WITNESS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
wounds. Even Christian leaders who have spoken the institution of slavery and the transatlantic slave examples to Wesleyan Christians of the present as we black bishops and pastors would never be appointed of Babel and thereby bringing people of different cultures,
trade that facilitated it. He includes separate sections engage the particular challenges of our day. Yet it is also also embraced prejudice within their own denominational
out have often resorted to the language of political to serve in white contexts—in other words, the new ethnicities, and tongues into Christ’s beloved community
addressed to ship captains, slave-trading merchants, true, of course, that the witness of Methodists as regards context. From the late 1780s onward, there was a growing
ideology rather than the language of Scripture, denomination created for itself its own form of Jim Crow. together. We can overcome racism because we have been
and planters, desperately appealing to each to consider race soon became less beholden to the gospel and more tendency by white preachers to “spiritualize” the gospel
the broad tradition of the church catholic, and If these negative examples were all that Wesleyans made “ambassadors for Christ” and given a “ministry
fundamental questions of justice and mercy in conformed to the ways of the world—particularly as particularly in relation to slavery so that the salvation of
the theological grammar of the faith. That such a had to look at, then our situation would be depressing of reconciliation” to one another and to the world (2
what they are doing (to say nothing of a number of Methodism in America continued to develop. souls was emphasized to the exclusion of the salvation
contribution is needed ought to be obvious to people indeed. Yet if we look further back into that earlier Corinthians 5:14-21).
warnings to them about eternal damnation). Examples of a growing cultural conformity of bodies. That led to a growing acceptance of slavery
of faith. When a large segment of the U.S. population history—before the Central Jurisdiction, before the Yet the Wesleyan witness can offer us a helpful and
In late February of 1791, just days before abound. In 1792, Richard Allen and Absalom Jones where preachers would not challenge the “peculiar
is telling the rest of us that it feels like their lives don’t 1844 split, before the splintering off of black Methodist needed contribution—it can provide a lens through which
his death, John Wesley wrote a letter to William led other black worshipers to walk out of St. George’s institution” so that they could gain access to audiences
matter, then as a matter of conscience it ought to denominations, and before Richard Allen and Absalom to see how the biblical witness finds purchase in the hurly-
Wilberforce in which he urged the latter to keep up Church in Philadelphia over prejudicial treatment of enslaved men and women on plantations. Indeed,
cause Christians to look both without and within, to Jones walked out of St. George’s Church in Philadelphia— burly of everyday living. What it shows us is the evangelical
the fight against slavery. Wilberforce was a young related to seating arrangements in worship; that act of the creeping acceptance of slavery by the church led to
ask searching questions about what is going on and then we encounter a very different kind of witness. imperative of speaking out on behalf of justice and
Member of Parliament at the time, and his great protest eventually led to the formation of the African the situation in the 1840s (unthinkable in the days of
what we can do about it. It is a witness much less beholden to culture, much compassion in a world where remaining silent would be
victory in getting Parliament to pass the Slave Trade Methodist Episcopal Church. The AME Church, along Asbury and Garrettson) where Methodist bishop James more prophetic in character, and much more biblically
While conversations leading to constructive so much easier. It shows us how important it is not to stay
Act of 1807 was still many years away. In the letter, with the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Zion, O. Andrew was himself a slave owner. The constitutional faithful. It could be said that the Methodist witness on
action are clearly needed, we also need those silent, but to engage in the hard work of proclaiming the
Wesley refers to slavery as “that execrable villainy, and the Colored (later Christian) Methodist Episcopal crisis precipitated by Bishop Andrew’s case at the General race (at least among whites) was faithful so long as it was
conversations to be informed. And for Christian love of Jesus Christ to people of all ages, nations, and races.
which is the scandal of religion, of England, and Church, were all created by black Methodists due Conference led in 1844 to a split into the Methodist a Wesleyan witness, i.e., so long as it remained closely
believers, that means going to the resources of the The implications of that love determine how we are meant
of human nature.” He exhorts Wilberforce to keep to exclusionary treatment by their white Methodist Episcopal Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church, connected to the faithfully biblical and deeply counter-
faith to become acquainted with the witness of our to treat one another, and how we are meant to live together.
fighting the good fight: “Go on, in the name of God counterparts. Indeed, the most faithful Wesleyan South. That capitulation to culture anticipated the North/ cultural impulse that drove the Methodist movement in
ancestors as they dealt with similar, or analogous, So as Wesleyans, who take the Scriptures as the
and in the power of his might, till even American witness on race after the 1790s was largely borne South split of the Civil War that would occur less than 20 its earliest years. It was only when Methodism began to
situations. For those of us in the Wesleyan tradition, rule of our faith and embrace our particular heritage as
slavery (the vilest that ever saw the sun) shall vanish by black Methodists who struggled courageously to years later. give way to its cultural context that it began, slowly but
there is a prophetic witness from the early Methodist a continually fruitful source of guidance for practical
away before it.” Wesley knew he was writing to a form their own churches and engage in the work of Thus, in a period of 60 years, the Methodist surely, to become indistinguishable from the racism and
movement that we would be wise to learn about— Christian living, perhaps we can hear another version of
man with whom he shared a common spirituality. ministry against overwhelming obstacles. Added movement in America had gone from excommunicating prejudice of American society writ large.
indeed, we might find that just such a prophetic John Wesley’s advice to William Wilberforce calling out to
Wilberforce had converted to evangelical Christianity to that, we could include white Methodists in the slaveholders to finding itself with a slaveholding bishop. Of course, we shouldn’t look primarily to the Wesley
witness gives us the courage and confidence to do the us in the present: “Go on, in the name of God and in the
several years before, and his faith would sustain him holiness movement in the first half of the 19th century, It’s a legacy that should make it little surprise that, when brothers, or to early Methodism, for the basis of how
things we need to do in our own day. power of his might, till every expression of racist sentiment
throughout a parliamentary career in which he made who actively fought for abolition and, in some cases, the northern and southern branches of the MEC finally to view race and culture at all. We should instead look
John and Charles Wesley encountered chattel and all forms of racial prejudice vanish away before it.”
the fight against slavery a centerpiece of his work. separated from the Methodist Episcopal Church over reunited in 1939 (along with the Methodist Protestant to the Bible (which is exactly what John Wesley would
slavery firsthand during their missionary experience Church), those Methodists’ great-grandchildren (Andrew C. Thompson is the senior pastor of First United
in the American colonies in the mid-1730s. The While the Wesley brothers made their own the denomination’s failure on the issue of slavery. tell us to do). And the Bible points to an equality of all
nevertheless created a provision called the “Central Methodist Church in Springdale, Arkansas. He holds a Th.D.
Georgia colony (to which they were assigned) did views clear, the Wesleyan witness on race in the White Methodists in the MEC tradition did not children of God by virtue of the redemptive work of
Jurisdiction.” The Central Jurisdiction was a racially from Duke University and previously served for four years
not allow slavery at the time, although it was legal 18th century was not limited to their writings alone. only push their black brothers and sisters out, they Christ—for there is no longer Jew nor Greek, slave nor
segregated administrative unit within the newly created on the faculty of Memphis Theological Seminary. Used with
and widely practiced in nearby South Carolina. American Methodism took a strong stance against free, male nor female, for we are all one in Christ Jesus
Methodist Church that ensured that black congregations permission from Firebrand magazine, www.firebrand.com)
slavery in its early years. Indeed, the official minutes WESLEYAN WITNESS CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 (Galatians 3:28). Moreover, the work of the Holy Spirit
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