Discernment Information
Members of the team are also hearing questions about what would happen next if we do choose to disaffiliate from the UMC. There are several options to consider. The team will continue to research options and we invite you do to the same. There is information available online regarding a variety of branches of Methodism. All of the options being considered are still Methodist churches, rooted in Wesleyan theology and practice. I will attach a chart to this email that outlines some key considerations. This chart was prepared by a writer at Good News Magazine, not our team. All of the options have websites where you can go for more information. I can also share speaker videos in a future email. Again, this decision is only necessary if there is a vote to disaffiliate. Spend time on this when/if you feel it applies to you.
Our church webpage has been updated to include a tab for information related to discernment. You will find it by clicking on “menu” and scrolling to “discernment”. This email, as well as previous emails and other resources will be found there. To get started, you may also click HERE.
There is much to consider during this time. The approach of a new year seems a fitting time for each of us to engage in this process. I’m sure some of you may feel as if your personal discernment has been completed, but as you will see in the Ignatian process, one step is to rest in your decision to gain confidence that you are at peace with it. For others, you may feel overwhelmed by the task. As you begin to more fully engage in the process, I pray you will also find peace.
Pam Hand
Wesleyan-Methodist-Denominational-Comparison
11 Steps for Making a Decision Following the Ignatian Method
Discernment Update 12/21/22
Greetings friends,
I want to share a brief update and make you aware of 2 important upcoming dates regarding our process.
First, I’d like to thank everyone who participated in our discussion with our District Superintendent at our Charge Conference last week. This was the second time he has visited with us to address concerns and questions regarding the discernment process. We had very good participation and the session was informative.
In accordance with the discernment process, we will now move to a different type of meeting format. In order for our discernment team to represent our church, our team needs to hear from as many members of our congregation as possible, and members need opportunities to share with one another as well. The team will be hosting 2 sessions which might best be described as “discernment dialogues”. During these sessions, members need to share openly what is on their heart and mind as they have continued to pray and discern during this time. The team needs to hear from as many people as possible, regardless of your position on the issue(s). The DS will not be present at this meeting. Members may also ask questions, as needed, in order to help the team determine what other information and resources we need to provide.
Please make plans to join us for at least one if not both sessions which will be held in the sanctuary. There will be no presentation by the team so that we reserve as much time as possible for the team to hear from members.
Session 1: Wednesday, January 4 at 6:30 pm
Session 2: Sunday, January 8 at 3:00 pm
You will receive a reminder email along with more information about the discernment process next week.
Blessings to you all during this special season,
Pam Hand
Your Discernment Team includes:
Pam Hand - Lay Leader
Henry Long - Church Council Chair (outgoing)
Bruce Dooley - Church Council Chair (incoming)
Marty Box - former SPRC Chair and current Vice-Chair
Gifford Usher - Finance Chair
Jared Cartee - Incoming Chair of Trustees
Susan Little - Lay Delegate to Annual Conference
Rusty Tate - Senior Pastor (non-voting advisory position)
Helena UMC Discernment Plans 12/7/2022