2025 Resolutions

At the 2025 Session of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, members will consider these resolutions:

Title: Adopt “The African American Creed” as a worship resource for the Baltimore-Washington Conference

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: Adopting The African American Creed for use as a private and public worship resource will provide for greater equity and inclusion across the Baltimore-Washington Conference.

Submitted by:

Rev. Dr. Kwame Abayomi, Retired Elder, Northwood-Appold UMC
Rev. Dr. Kevin Slayter, Sr., Pastor, Northwood-Appold UMC
Officers and Members of the Northwood-Appold UMC Worship Committee
Officers and Members of the Northwood-Appold UMC

RESOLUTION:

Whereas The United Methodist Church has four (4) Creeds for use as private and public worship resources in the United Methodist Hymnal and in the United Methodist Book of Worship. In addition to “The Apostle’s Creed,” there are:

1. The Korean Creed
2. The Canadian Creed
3. The Native American Creed; and

Whereas the latter three (3) creeds offer the specifically titled group an option for expressing their faith and belief in God, and in our Lord, and Savior, Jesus Christ; now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference approve and adopt “The African American Creed” as a worship resource for public and private worship by our membership.

Effective Date: Immediately upon approval.

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for non-concurrence with the original version of this resolution. The attached African American Creed has been revised since then and has not been reviewed by the Connectional Table.

The African-American Creed

We believe in one God, who is the Creator and Sustainer of all life.

We believe God is the God of all people, that God loves and respects all people, and that Jesus Christ died to save all people.

We believe through the unction of The Holy Spirit, all humanity has the possibility and the ability to come to the fullness and knowledge of God, and of God’s Salvation through Jesus Christ.

We believe our history has been endowed by, is entwined in, and is combined with the history and heritage of all humanity: all races, tribes, clans, and ethnic-groups; and all islands, lands, and continents.

We believe our destiny is intricately and intimately interdependent: that if one fails, we all are diminished by that failure; and, by each one’s success, we all are inspired, enhanced, and empowered.

We believe we have come from great distances, still have great distances to go, and that we are surely on our journey: we shall attain full political, social and economic freedom—even as our souls are spiritually free in Jesus Christ, today.

We believe that the church of Jesus Christ is the strength of our life: that the pain and pathos of our past, shall not be compared to the exponential potential of our present, or to the inscrutable and inexplicable joy that is our inheritance through our faith in God.

Our God, these words we do pray in love and in union with all who are called by the name of Jesus Christ. AMEN.

________________________

Title: Updating and Revising a Rule on Consent Calendars

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: The Rules Committee reviews the Rules of our Conference annually and revises them as necessary. The Committee has determined that the current paragraph on the Consent Calendar needs to be revised in order to clarify and update language about Consent Calendars in our Rules.

Submitted by: Mark Gorman, Rules Committee Chair, on behalf of the Rules Committee

Resolution:

Whereas paragraph 3009.5 of the Conference Policies and Procedures Manual reads as follows: Provision shall be made for a Consent Calendar (hereinafter “CC”), which shall contain all reports printed in the Pre-Conference Reports Booklet, whether programmatic or administrative. Any report may be lifted from the CC by request of ten (10) members or the Conference Chancellor(s) before the CC is presented to the Conference for adoption. A list of all reports assigned to the CC shall be provided at the front of the Pre-Conference Reports Booklet, with the letters “CC” printed in bold type beside the titles of the reports. No action item, resolution or petition shall be included on the consent calendar; and

Whereas the Rules Committee has determined that this paragraph should be lightly revised; now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that paragraph 3009.5 shall be amended to read as follows (changes are in bold): Provision shall be made for a Consent Calendar (hereinafter “CC”), which shall contain programmatic or administrative reports grouped together for a single simple majority vote. Any report or portion of a report may be lifted from a CC by request of either ten (10) members of the Annual Conference or the Conference Chancellor(s) before a CC is presented for adoption. A list of all reports or portions of reports assigned to a CC shall be made available to members of the Annual Conference in advance of any sessions of the Annual Conference. The time on the agenda for voting on a CC shall also be publicized in advance of any sessions of the Annual Conference and shall be announced during a meeting of the Annual Conference by the Conference Secretary at least one hour before any vote takes place. No action item, resolution, petition, or proposed constitutional amendment shall be included on a CC.

Effective Date: July 1, 2025

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members tabled this resolution pending review. It has since been revised and this version has not been reviewed by the Connectional Table.

Title: Equity in Appointed Clergy Vacation Standards

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: The BWC Policy and Procedure Manual currently provides for particular minimum vacation weeks for clergy under full-time appointment but says that vacation time for those appointed part-time is to be negotiated. This resolution would apply the standard for full-time clergy to part-time as well, reflecting what is often but not always the practice, and providing for equivalent vacation time for all clergy. This would not impact other provisions of the paragraph, all of which already are written in such a way as to apply to all clergy.

Submitted by: Rev. Sarah Schlieckert, Elder, Extension Ministry,

RESOLUTION:

Amend paragraph 4033 of the BWC Policies and Procedures Manual as follows:

The date(s) of the vacation period(s) shall be mutually agreed upon to serve both the desire of the pastor(s) and the needs of the charge. This agreement shall be worked out by the Staff-Parish Relations Committee in close consultation with the pastor(s). Although charges may grant time off in excess of, but not less than, the applicable figure, the following vacations are recommended as minimum benefits for pastors in these stated categories:

~~Full-time pastors.~~ Every full-time or part-time appointed pastor is entitled to four weeks vacation per year, including four Sundays. A pastor serving the first year of a first appointment shall negotiate the vacation schedule with the Staff-Parish Relations Committee.

~~Part-time or supply pastors. Vacation time as negotiated between the District Superintendent, the pastor and the charge served.~~

Exceptions

Pastors who serve as chaplains in reserve units of the armed forces and who are required to serve two weeks annually on active duty shall be granted such time off in addition to their regular vacations.

Pastors who serve on the volunteer staff in Conference camping activity shall be permitted one week of such service during each appointment year without affecting salary or vacation time.

Local pastors who attend an approved United Methodist Course of Study School shall have the requisite vacation time in addition to the time spent at school.

Pastors who serve as members of district, Conference, jurisdictional and/or general church agencies shall be granted time for such participation without impact on the vacation entitlement.

Pulpit supply for vacations, illness, emergencies or Conference professional obligations shall be paid for by the local church.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2025

CO-SPONSOR(S):

Pastor S. Jerry Colbert, chair of FAMLP, Licensed to Preach Ministry. Executive Member NAMLP

Rev. Dr. Laura Norvell, Chairperson for the Order of Elders, Faith UMC

Rev. Dr. Leo Yates, Jr., LCPC, Chairperson for the Order of Deacons, Magothy UMC of the Deaf

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.

Title: Create a Baltimore-Washington Conference Parental Leave Policy

Budget Implications: Yes. CFA did not respond to our requests for review prior to the legislation submission deadline.

Rationale: Global experts support the adoption of at least 3 months of paid parental leave, and clergy parents around the connection say this would help them be more effective parents and pastors. However, offering paid parental leave is often a challenge for churches with limited savings or additional staff. This resolution offers clergy and their churches/ministry settings a way toward addressing the needs of newly expanded families without exhausting the resources of the local church.

Submitted by: BWC COSROW (Gender Equity Team); Rev. Kate Mackereth Fulton, Rev. Shannon Sullivan, & Rev. Dr. Jalene Chase

RESOLUTION:

Whereas our United Methodist Social Principles affirm, “We encourage parents and other caregivers to exercise appropriate diligence and care, raising their children in ways that promote their physical, spiritual, emotional, and moral growth.1”;

Whereas Scripture calls us to provide care for each other as members of Christ's family ("But if someone doesn't provide for their own family, and especially for a member of their household, they have denied the faith." 1 Timothy 5:8, CEB);

Whereas The World Health Organization and the International Labor Organization advocate for at least 14 weeks of paid maternity leave2;

Whereas The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline states, “Maternity or paternity leave, not to exceed one-fourth of a year, will be available and shall be granted by the bishop and the cabinet, and the executive committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry to any local pastor, provisional member, associate member, or clergy member in full connection who so requests it at the birth or arrival of a child into the home for purposes of adoption.”3;

Whereas the parental leave policy as written in the 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline only guarantees paid leave for eight weeks, has been considered open to interpretation, and has not always applied equitably across the connection, since “one-fourth of year”4 is thirteen weeks;

Whereas some annual conferences have adopted policies maintaining compensation for thirteen weeks and assisting local congregations in paying for coverage during the leave;

Whereas congregations have disproportionate access to resources, and generous parental leave policies positively affect clergy well-being, recruitment, and retention throughout the annual conference; and

Whereas supporting clergy families lives up to our calling to welcome all generations as Christ welcomes children (Matthew 19:14, Mark 10:15. Luke 18:16), expressed in our baptismal covenant when we promise to “nurture these children in Christ’s holy Church” and “surround these persons with a community of love”5;

Therefore, be it

Resolved, the Baltimore-Washington Conference adopt the following Parental Leave Policy and Procedures (which incorporate, and would replace, the foster/resource care policies of the Baltimore-Washington Conference.

Effective Date: January 1, 2026.

Baltimore-Washington Conference Parental Leave Policy

Statement of Purpose

“We believe the family to be the basic human community through which persons are nurtured and sustained in mutual love, responsibility, respect, and fidelity.”6 While recognizing that families take on different shapes and sizes, and the needs of each family are unique, we seek to love one another and enable all members of the body of Christ to grow and flourish.

The Baltimore-Washington Conference supports families and advocates for parental leave for all persons welcoming a child into their home, both clergy and lay. Further, we encourage all parents who are welcoming a child into their home to make full use of parental leave policies.

The World Health Organization and the International Labor Organization advocate for at least 14 weeks of paid maternity leave,7 and The United Methodist Book of Discipline allows for up to 13 weeks of maternity and paternity leave for clergy families.8

The Baltimore-Washington Conference has developed this policy in order to assist clergy families, local churches, District Superintendents, and the Annual Conference in caring for family and advocating for parental leave in the church and beyond the church.

This policy applies to any local pastor, provisional member, associate member, or clergy member in full connection who are appointed to a local congregation or annual conference-funded extension ministry, including, but not limited to, campus ministries, Wesley Foundations, camp and retreat ministries, and conference staff, hereinafter referred to as “clergy” or “clergy person”. Clergy appointed to non-conference-funded extension ministries are encouraged to adapt similar policies for their settings.

Book of Discipline Foundations

¶ 356. Parental Leave—Parental leave, not to exceed one-fourth of a year, will be available and shall be granted by the bishop and the cabinet, and the executive committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry to any local pastor, provisional member, associate member, or clergy member in full connection who so requests it at the birth or arrival of a child into the home for purposes of adoption.

1. Persons desiring parental leave should file their request with the committee on pastor-parish relations after consulting with the district superintendent at least ninety days prior to its beginning to allow adequate pastoral care for the churches involved to be developed.

2. During the leave, the clergy member’s annual conference relations will remain unchanged, and the health and welfare benefit plans will remain in force.

3. A parental leave of up to one-quarter of a year will be considered as an uninterrupted appointment for pension purposes.

4. Compensation will be maintained for no less than the first eight weeks of leave.

5. During the leave time, pastoral responsibility for the church or churches involved will be handled through consultation with the committee on pastor-parish relations of the local church(es) and the district superintendent.

6. Special arrangements shall be made for district superintendents, bishops, and those under special appointment.

Policy for Births and Adoptions

1. All clergy in the Baltimore-Washington Conference who are expecting the birth or adoption of a child are eligible for Parental Leave (The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church 2016, ¶ 355). This policy applies to all clergy, regardless of their part-time or full-time status. Parental leave is guaranteed to all clergy who request it within the guidelines of this policy.

2. Clergy are encouraged to begin communication with their DS as soon as they are able to publicly share the anticipation of a child’s arrival. Families giving birth are encouraged to begin planning as soon as they are public about their pregnancy. Adoptive parents are encouraged to make a plan as soon as they are approved for adoption/foster parenting. Parental leave must be requested at least 90 days in advance of the anticipated beginning of the leave, in accordance with the 2016 Book of Discipline.

3. Parental leave shall be encouraged and permitted for up to 13 weeks with full pay and will not affect the clergy person’s pension, health benefits, and appointment status.

4. Churches will maintain their regular compensation for clergy on leave for the duration of the leave.

5. The DS will consult with the clergy person to arrange coverage for the duration of leave.

6. The Annual Conference will assist local churches with additional funding for pastoral coverage and compensation, in consultation with the clergy person and the SPRC, up to $7,500 per leave. These funds will be approved by the Cabinet and will fall under a category determined by the Conference Council on Finance and Administration.

7. Parental leave may be taken consecutively or nonconsecutively, full or part time, according to the needs of the family. All parental leave must be taken within 9 months of the placement or birth of the child.

8. Parental leave is not vacation. The use of parental leave does not affect the clergy person’s use of their annual vacation granted in the Annual Conference Rules.

9. Churches will make reasonable accommodations for breastfeeding and pumping parents, as well as for the feeding of infants. This can include private space, access to an outlet, and time/space to feed according to the infant’s needs.

10. Churches and other ministry settings will also examine their personnel policies for lay staff and are encouraged to ensure adequate and equal parental leave for all.

11. Clergy in the Annual Conference will support and promote parental leave, including by providing pastoral care coverage if asked and needed, in accordance with their schedule.

12. The Annual Conference will support clergy on parental leave by excusing or making alternate arrangements for their district and conference duties. This includes the annual conference session, charge conference, district and conference committees, and residency requirements.

Policy for Foster/Resource Care Placements

The Baltimore-Washington Conference recognizes the significant need for foster/resource care families. The intended temporary nature, often short notice, and government financial support of foster/resource parenting present different support needs from birth or adoption.

1. Clergy who serve as foster/resource parents should be in communication with their DS and the SPRC at the time of appointment or during the licensing process.

2. Foster/resource parents are encouraged to make an advance plan of contingencies as soon as they are approved for adoption/foster parenting.

3. Should a clergy family welcome a child into their home for foster/resource care, a specific plan will be worked out among the DS, SPRC, and the clergy family, with the goal of caring for the family.

a. Foster/resource parents generally anticipate taking off work for some days at the beginning of the placement, to arrange for daycare and/or school enrollment, potential medical or caseworker appointments, and to begin to establish a relationship of mutual trust with the child(ren). They typically return to a more normal work schedule more quickly than after the birth of a child.

b. Foster/resource parents may also need a few days at the end of a placement as well, to care for both the logistics and grief of transition.

4. Up to three weeks of paid parental leave may be given each calendar year to clergy beginning or ending foster/resource placements.

5. The Annual Conference will assist local churches with additional funding for pastoral coverage and compensation, in consultation with the clergy person and the SPRC, up to $1,000 per year. These funds will be approved by the Cabinet and will fall under a category determined by the Conference Council on Finance and Administration.

Baltimore-Washington Conference Parental Leave Procedures

Clergyperson’s Responsibilities & Action Steps:

1. Clergy are encouraged to begin planning for Parental Leave as soon as possible. Think through the logistics and needs of your family, ensuring that you consider what will best serve your family. Parental Leave may be taken for up to 13 weeks for birth or adoption, consecutively or nonconsecutively, full or part time, and must be taken within 9 months of the birth/arrival of a child.

2. Talk with your District Superintendent before sharing the news with your Local Church.

3. Share your plans for Parental Leave with your SPRC.

4. Submit a formal Parental Leave request at least 90 days in advance of the projected start date of leave to the District Superintendent, Episcopal Office, and the Board of Ministry Conference Relations Registrar.

5. If needed or desired, the District Superintendent will meet with the SPRC to discuss the Parental Leave Policy, benefits, and needs of the congregation.

6. Work with the SPRC to determine the local church resources and needs during the leave. Request funding by submitting a budget for the expenses of pastoral coverage during leave to the District Superintendent.

7. Arrange pastoral coverage for the duration of your leave. The District Superintendent is available to assist you if desired.

8. Communicate your Parental Leave plans to the SPRC, District Superintendent, and Local Church/ministry setting.

9. As the child’s arrival date nears, ensure all notes and pastoral coverage plans are in place and have been communicated to all involved.

10. Set appropriate boundaries with Local Church leadership as to your needs during leave. Think about if you wish to be contacted during your leave, and under what circumstances. Communicate your boundaries clearly, and ensure that the Local Church/ministry setting understands your availability during leave. (Think about how or if you will respond when a parishioner calls you. What about if there is a funeral? What will happen to emails that are sent during your leave?) Ensure that communication is kind and clear so that all know what to expect. 11. As the child’s arrival date nears, it may be helpful to have back up pastoral coverage and worship services ready, in case of unanticipated circumstances. Consider developing a lay-led service or two and equipping members to be prepared in the event they need to lead without you.

12. When your child arrives and your leave begins, inform your District Superintendent and SPRC.

13. Take full advantage of the Parental Leave benefits offered to you, for the benefit of your family.

District Superintendent and Conference Responsibilities & Action Steps:

1. District Superintendents will support clergy and encourage the full use of the Parental Leave Policy.

2. If desired, District Superintendents will meet with the SPRC to discuss the Parental Leave Policy, Foster Care Placement Policy, benefits, and needs of the congregation, for birth, adoption, or foster care placement.

3. District Superintendents will receive Parental Leave coverage budgets from Local Churches/ministry settings and will ensure that funding is provided in accordance with the Parental Leave policy.

4. District Superintendents will remain in consultation with the clergy as pastoral coverage is arranged. If desired, the District Superintendent will assist the clergyperson in finding appropriate coverage.

5. District Superintendents will encourage good boundaries during Parental Leave. District Superintendents will not require clergy to attend charge conference, district conference, or related duties during their parental leave.

6. District Superintendents will help interpret and support the need for space and time for grieving for clergy families experiencing pregnancy or infancy loss or at the end of a foster placement. District Superintendents will be in consultation with clergy and the SPRC to arrange this time. This time will not affect a clergy person’s annual vacation.

7. The Annual Conference will support and promote Parental Leave and will advocate for paid Parental Leave in all aspects of society.

8. The BOM, Cabinet, and COSROW will review and update the Parental Leave policy at least quadrennially.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline, ¶ 162 The Nurturing Community A..

2 Maternity Protection, Compliance with International Labor Standards. https://www.who.int/data/nutrition/nlis/info/maternity-protection-compliance-with-international-labour-standards

3 The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline, ¶ 356.

4 The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline, ¶ 356.

5 “Baptismal Covenant I,” The United Methodist Hymnal

6 The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline, ¶ 162 The Nurturing Community A.

7 Maternity Protection, Compliance with International Labor Standards. https://www.who.int/data/nutrition/nlis/info/maternity-protection-compliance-with-international-labour-standards

8 The 2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline, ¶ 356.

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.

Title: Encouraging Awareness and Faithful Living in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: Since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as one of the most transformative technological advancements of our time. Many have hailed this new stage of computer science for its potential to accelerate scientific discovery and increase productivity. At the same time, AI raises significant questions about its potential wider impact on human society. The rise of AI threatens job security for many people. The energy demands of AI servers are at odds with our need to respond to the global climate crisis. And AI developers acknowledge they lack full control over advanced AI and cannot guarantee it will not be used destructively. United Methodists need to become aware of these complex issues so that we can live faithfully in the name of Jesus Christ during the era of Artificial Intelligence.

Submitted by: Rev. David Jacobson and Rev. Dr. Mark Gorman

RESOLUTION:

Whereas Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a potent new technology that is already impacting many aspects of our world, and AI may do significant good in certain respects but also has the potential to do great harm;

Whereas the Statement on AI Risk (https://www.safe.ai/work/statement-on-ai-risk) from the Center for AI Safety, signed by Nobel laureates, leading AI scientists, and other notable figures, warns, "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war”;

Whereas the United Methodist Church affirms:

"Global warming and climate change are already creating extreme conditions that threaten the entirety of life on earth" (¶160.B);

"the dignity of work… is a way for individuals to contribute to the flourishing of their families and contribute to the common good" (¶161.C);

"corporations and businesses, like all other human institutions, are charged with doing good… and making positive contributions to communal life" (¶161.E); and

Whereas the rapid advancement of AI raises ethical concerns related to environmental sustainability, economic justice, and corporate responsibility and calls for a faithful and informed response from the Church; now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference calls on its members and congregations to study the potential benefits and harms of Artificial Intelligence; to weigh those benefits and harms in light of the gospel of Jesus Christ; and to begin to discern through prayer and thoughtful conversation how to live faithfully in the era of Artificial Intelligence.

Effective Date: July 1, 2025

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.

Title: "The Forgotten War": Advocating for Peace with Justice for the People in Sudan

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: The UMC includes the Uganda-South Sudan’s annual conference. The BWC as part of a global connection has an opportunity to be the first United Methodist conference within the U.S jurisdictions call for a sustained peace with justice in the region. The conference and its constituencies are well situated to advocate for the human rights of well over twenty-five million people in dire need of humanitarian aid and the eighteen million people who are facing severe hunger in the war-torn Sudan.

Submitted by: Darren Fenwick, Neal Christie, Will Newton, Sherie Koob, Legislative Team with the Advocacy and Action board of the BWC

RESOLUTION:

Whereas Sudan’s current turmoil traces back to the 2019 revolution that ousted long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir, which led to a fragile power-sharing government between civilians and the military. The uneasy bargain collapsed in 2021 when a military coup commanded by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sudanese Armed Forces, dissolved the transitional government;

Whereas The coup was supported by the Rapid Support Forces, a powerful Arab paramilitary led by Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (aka Hemedti). The RSF descended from the Janjaweed, the ethnic militias that – along with Sudan’s military – were responsible for the horrific Darfur genocide two decades ago. The church is called to advocate for a just peace for the people of Sudan;

Whereas Twenty-five million people in dire need of humanitarian assistance and 18 million are facing severe hunger. (Human Rights Watch); now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference laments the overthrow of the civilian transitional government of Sudan in October 2021, and the subsequent April 2023 outbreak of devastating civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Force militia, resulting in the death of tens of thousands of people, the displacement of nearly nine million people, the breakdown of civil society, collapse of the medical system, disruption of the banking system, extensive damage to industrial, agricultural and other infrastructure, including the oil facilities vital to the economies of both Sudan and South Sudan, and the impending onset of famine threatening even more people, with over 18 million reportedly acutely food insecure;

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference salutes the World Methodist Council meeting in Gothenburg, Sweden, 18 August 2024 for expressing concern at the continued civil war in Sudan in which thousands of people were killed and more than eight million internally displaced;

Be it further Resolved, that this humanitarian crisis in Sudan resulting in the military occupation and bitter conflict call us to walk alongside those who have been persecuted and displaced, to provide a space of love and safe refuge for all people in harm's way, and to advocate for peacemakers, relief workers, and policy makers. And as United Methodists we

affirm, “Regardless of legal status or nationality, we are all connected through Christ to one another. Paul reminds us that when "one part suffers, all the parts suffer" as well (1 Corinthians 12:26). The solidarity we share through Christ eliminates the boundaries and barriers which exclude and isolate. ” (The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church);

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference requests the General Board of Church and Society and the General Board of Global Ministries to advocate appropriate United States government and international efforts to bring about a cease-fire and a negotiated peace resulting in the restoration of democratically elected government for Sudan, efforts including but not limited to:

1. High level diplomatic engagement (a) to persuade countries supporting the combatants with arms, equipment, and funds to stop doing so, and (b) to mobilize the funds and equipment from many countries needed to relieve the impending famine, to restore medical care, and to reconstruct Sudan;

2. Urges all warring factions in Sudan, especially that of General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, head of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and Mohamed Hamden Dagalo’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to work towards an immediate and unconditional ceasefire that will bring about a civilian-led democratic government;

3. Imposition of a comprehensive United Nations arms embargo to cut off the flow of military equipment into Sudan and the hands of the combatants;

3. Application of appropriate U.S. and international sanctions (including secondary sanctions on parties in third countries) and export controls to discourage private parties from financing and from providing the combatants with the means to continue the conflict;

4. As appropriate, the deployment of peacekeeping forces under the auspices of the United Nations to help stabilize the situation and separate the armed combatants from each other;

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference:

1. pray in our congregations for a just peace for the people in Sudan;

2. encourage donations to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCORR) to aid in this humanitarian effort to ease food and medical insecurity; and

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference dispatch a copy of this Resolution to the Honorable Thomas Perriello, the United States Special Envoy for Sudan, and to the Honorable Maro Rubio, Secretary of State.

EFFECTIVE DATE: May 15, 2025, following annual conference

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.

Title: "Addressing and Responding to the Dangers of Religious Nationalisms"

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: The BWC has long supported the ecumenical and public witness of the NCC. The NCC in fact engages its national ministry from within the geographical bounds of this conference and is located in the UMC Building in Washington, DC. The BWC takes seriously Wesley's admonition "to do no harm." The conference in concert with the NCC has an opportunity to educate its congregations as to the harm caused by a rise in religious nationalism in our communities and to act proactively witness to a gospel that is not tied to one dominant race, ethnicity or national ideology.

Submitted by: Neal Christie, Sherie Koob, and Darren Fenwick, Legislative Team with the Advocacy and Action board of the BWC

RESOLUTION:

Whereas While upholding the positive role of religions in civic society, Religious Nationalism addresses the dangerous conflation of religious belief and violent or exclusionary nationalism which continues to beleaguer and undermine many societies. Religious leaders and religious communities can and do relate in positive ways with the countries or nation-states in which they are found;

Whereas Religious commitment can inspire governmental and political leaders to pay attention to the welfare of ordinary people and, in many cases, the well-being of the planet on which we all live. The effect is a more wholesome community for all. Such positive relationships of the religious and the political are affirmed by the National Council of Churches;

Whereas However, the misuse of religious traditions to exclude or harm whole segments of populations damages societies and obscures the positive contribution of religion. Religious Nationalism is here understood as any merging of a religious tradition, political outlook, and national loyalty that brings harm to those with different religious commitments;

Whereas By privileging one religious community and discriminating against others, Religious Nationalism can lead to the unjust oppression of those within different religious communities and even incite violence against them. The victims are most often those of other religious traditions or ethnicities who are portrayed as not truly belonging and ineligible for the full benefits of that society. The resulting harm can include marginalization, exclusion from public or community services, harassment, or persecution;

Whereas Christian Nationalism has provided the foundation for rewriting history, to the near exclusion of religious diversity and the experience of Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latino, Pacific Islander and other peoples. As a result, it has enabled discrimination and sanctioned violence. Nor is Christian Nationalism limited to the U.S., because transnational ramifications are part of the legacy of western colonialism; now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference affirms the National Council of Churches: The Problem of Religious Nationalism, in the US and Globally: A Policy Statement of the National Council of Churches - October 18, 2024 that calls upon our Christian colleagues in the United States and around the world to join in opposing Religious Nationalisms and stand in solidarity with our ecumenical and inter-religious partners who, as much as may be possible in their particular settings, challenge Religious Nationalism: whether in self-criticism or out of concern for the wellbeing of religious minorities anywhere in the world;

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference, in solidarity with the National Council of Churches, lift up our concern with differing forms of Religious Nationalism that produce similar outcomes, including persecution and violence against religious minorities. Examples include Sinhalese Buddhist Nationalism in Sri Lanka, the Hindutva movement in India, exclusivist manifestations of Jewish Zionism in Israel, Salafi movements in various Muslim countries, and various forms of Christian Nationalism in Russia, Brazil, and elsewhere;

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference oppose all forms of Religious Nationalism that bring harm to others, firm in our belief that every religious tradition is called to move its adherents toward greater respect and care for all and that conversation and collaboration with committed partners, we can and will be more effective at countering the negative consequences of this misguided ideology; and

1. The problem of Religious Nationalism must be acknowledged, working within our various religious traditions and seeking partners across them. This means addressing the question of what constitutes a constructive voice in the political arena and how that voice is to be maintained, especially in the face of the deadly combination of religious zealotry and state power which may foster hostility, cruelty, and oppression. We believe there is much to be found in common among our religious traditions that will provide a basis for collaborative speech and action.

2. Addressing Religious Nationalism requires careful discernment and cultural sensitivity. In addressing Religious Nationalism, we recognize that the distinctiveness and relationship of religion and politics are understood differently in the various traditions. We invite conversation regarding the need to identify and address the harms of Religious Nationalism in diverse contextual settings.

3. We draw on the best of our religious traditions, working for the common good in mutually reinforcing ways. Drawing on the best of our religious traditions, we seek to work across religious and state boundaries to build healthy communities that respect and uphold the dignity of all. United Methodist Christians are called to care for our neighbors, safeguard the well-being of strangers, and build reconciled communities. Similar principles can be found in other religious traditions. Religious Nationalism will not prevent us from uniting to advocate for the just treatment across our diversity, whether racially, sexually, religiously, or nationally.

4. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and our Social Principles are helpful guides. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Article 18 of the UDHR specifically affirms, as in its title, the “Freedom of Religion or Belief”. The more recent Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, adopted

by the United Nations in 1981, expands on this concern. Article 2.1 says, “No one shall be subject to discrimination by any State, institution, group of persons, or person on the grounds of religion or other belief.” Our 2024 Social Principles state, "While do not believe that churches should affiliate with particular political parties, wd do encourage churches to speak out boldly on social issues from a Gospel perspective." We commit ourselves to strategize around ways to avoid exploitative and violent problems resulting from an inappropriate conflation of religious and national loyalties; and

Be it further Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference: Educate congregations on the local, state, and national harmful impacts of Religious Nationalisms and proactive ways to dismantle Religious Nationalisms and to dispatch a copy of this Resolution to the General Board of Church and Society and the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.

EFFECTIVE DATE: May 15, 2025 following annual conference.

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.

Title: Conference Wide Opportunity to Embrace our LGBTQ+ Siblings

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: Much harm occurred over years of discrimination in our United Methodist Denomination against the LGBTQ+ community. Healing comes through intentional opportunities to repair that damage.

Submitted By: Rev. Debbie Scott and Rev. Angela Wells, BWARM

RESOLUTION:

Whereas the 2020/2024 General Conference of The United Methodist Church removed policies in the Book of Discipline targeting the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) community and mandated discrimination throughout the denomination;

Whereas dismantling discrimination and harm cannot be realized through legislation alone, but requires ongoing engagement in the context of relationship, including but not limited to: policy change, story-sharing and dialogue, education, support, leadership development, solidarity, advocacy, monitoring, accountability;

Whereas the ministry of the Baltimore Washington Area Reconciling Methodists (BWARM) models the importance of having dedicated and empowered folks who focus on this specific area of injustice and provide conference-wide opportunities for growth; and

Whereas the BWARM seeks to be proactive in building relationships, learning, and living into all that is now possible for ministry with and for LGBTQ+ persons;now

Therefore, be it

Resolved, that BWARM calls on the BWC Bishop, Cabinet, Conference Staff, Conference and District Boards and Committees to:

1. Actively support the LGBTQ+ laity, clergy, and candidates for licensed/ordained ministry in the BWC Annual Conference with community-building, faith and leadership development, solidarity, and advocacy.

2. Center and amplify the voices and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who have been marginalized by church and society, most notably, transgender and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) persons.

3. Monitor Annual Conference committees and policies, as well as the status and needs of candidates and clergy under appointment to ensure justice and equity on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, and to report findings to the Annual Conference.

4. Curate, create, and share resources with the help of BWARM to equip local churches for:

A. relationship building and continuing education

B. meaningful ministry with and for LGBTQ+ church and community members

5. Collaborate with ministry-specific areas, particularly children’s ministry, youth ministry, and campus ministry in the desire to safely and most effectively be in ministry with and for LGBTQ+ people of all ages.

Effective Date: May 15, 2025

As per Baltimore-Washington Conference Rule Para. 3006.2.c., this resolution was reviewed by the Conference Secretary and found consistent with the current Book of Discipline.

At a Mar. 1 meeting, Connectional Table members voted for concurrence with this resolution.