Some of you will remember that the United Methodist Church, as a denomination, has a variety of structures that make up the business aspect of our collective ministry. We have our Charge Conferences in our local churches to officially set pastoral salaries and to oversee and celebrate the work of the church. Our Annual Conferences meet to support those local churches and vote on things like constitutional amendments as well as the character and conference relationships of clergy. Our General Conference is the body of United Methodist delegates that decides on our beliefs and provides support to ministries all around the globe. This week, delegates from Annual Conferences around the United States gathered in Jurisdictional Conferences. These Conferences focus on which churches are part of which Annual Conferences and they are responsible for voting and appointing Bishops.

Throughout this week, there have been a series of firsts for Jurisdictional Conferences. The very first Native American throughout the whole UMC was elected out of the South-Central District. And our own Northeastern Jurisdiction elected our first Hispanic/Latino Bishop, our own District Superintendent, now Bishop Héctor Burgos. We celebrate this season of firsts. But I also lament as I ask the question, “why did it take so long?”

As a connection that recognizes that “Christ’s church is open to people of all ages, all nations, and all races,” why did it take so long to make this even a partial reality? Why are will still struggling to live as the church that Jesus has asked us to be? Why are we still struggling to be a church that represents the diversity of God’s great creation? Why does St. Paul’s Bay Head not reflect this reality?

Something to think about…

I learned a lot this week as I watched our Jurisdictional Conference. I learned more about where our Shared Ministries or Apportionments go. I learned more about how we are connected in ministry with churches all over the globe. I learned more about how God is real, God is here, and God is not done with us yet.

Check out these links to find out for yourself!

The Conference Prepares to do God’s Work:
https://nejumc.org/pdf/NEJ%20DCA%20Tuesday%20November%201%202022.pdf

The Conference Opens:
https://nejumc.org/pdf/NEJ%20DCA%20Wednesday%20November%202%202022.pdf

Celebrate Bishop Héctor’s election here:
https://nejumc.org/pdf/NEJ%20DCA%20Wednesday%20November%203%202022.pdf

Or find out more about the Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference here:
https://www.nejumc.org/2022conference.html

Comment your thoughts below!

Blessings friends,
Pastor Nicole