Racism, Sexism, Homophobia... Where is the Methodist Church on our Journey to Inclusion?
As the United Methodist Church (UMC) gathers for its General Conference this week in Charlotte, North Carolina, there lies a great opportunity to reinforce our commitment to genuine inclusion within our denomination. While the official agenda of the conference will cover a variety of topics, it remains crucial that we continue the conversation about building a truly inclusive church alongside these discussions.
The Current State of Inclusion in the UMC
Our church's journey towards inclusion has seen progress, yet much work remains. Leaders like Derrick Scott III, a dedicated campus minister, and Rev. Rodrigo Cruz, a pioneering church planter and newly appointed assistant to the bishop, have shared compelling insights on the importance of moving beyond mere tokenism to authentic inclusion. Derrick emphasizes the need for the denomination to engage with and value the unique contributions of all members, especially young adults. Meanwhile, Rev. Cruz stresses the need for structural changes that support lasting inclusivity.
The Pitfalls of Tokenism
Within our denomination, tokenism has manifested as minimal compliance to diversity standards—such as diversity quotas or isolated appointments—which do not foster a true sense of belonging or alter the church culture in meaningful ways. Both Derrick and Rodrigo critique this approach for stopping short of promoting real participation and belonging within our communities.
Importance During General Conference
As we engage in the vital work of the General Conference, it is essential to parallel those efforts with robust discussions on inclusion. This dual focus will ensure that as we make decisions about our church's future, we are also considering how those decisions impact our ability to be a truly inclusive community that mirrors the diversity of God's kingdom.
Action Items for Individuals and the Denomination
For Individuals:
Engage in Personal Reflection: Reflect on personal biases and ways to actively promote inclusivity within your own church and community circles.
Educate Yourself: Deepen your understanding of the diverse experiences within the UMC, seeking to grasp different life perspectives that can enrich your own faith understanding.
Build Genuine Relationships: Establish meaningful connections with individuals who differ from you in background and belief. These relationships form the foundation of a community that values each person.
For the Denomination:
Implement Inclusive Policies: Advocate for and develop policies within the UMC that enhance inclusion at every organizational level, from the local church committees to the denominational leadership.
Monitor and Adjust: Set up a mechanism to routinely assess the impact of inclusivity initiatives, making necessary adjustments to ensure their effectiveness and relevance.
Provide Resources and Training: Offer ongoing education and resources that equip church leaders and members with the skills needed for fostering an inclusive environment. This could include cultural competency training, anti-racism workshops, and educational programs on inclusive theology.
Looking Forward
As we proceed with the General Conference, let us ensure that our dialogue on inclusion is woven into the fabric of our discussions and decisions. Moving beyond tokenism to create a church where everyone truly belongs is not just an isolated goal—it should be integral to all facets of our church life. This is about more than making space; it's about enriching our entire church community to reflect the comprehensive love and diversity of God’s kingdom.
