Resolution celebrating 40th anniversary of Reconciling Ministries Network-2024

Title: Draw the Circle Wide: Celebrating the 40^th Anniversary of Reconciling Ministries Network

Budget Implications: None

Rationale: “John Wesley encouraged Methodists toward perfection in the lifelong pursuit of love. Love looks like affirmation in the face of persecution, like kinship in the face of isolation and like courage in the face of despair”. (Reconciling Methodist Convocation 2023) This has always been the work of Reconciling Ministries.

Submitted By: Rev. Debbie Scott, Chair of BWARM, Rev. Angela Wells, Co-Chair BWARM

RESOLUTION:

Whereas in 1984, the Reconciling Congregation Program formed to help United Methodist congregations and clergy work for justice for LGBTQ people, and in 2000, the program changed its name to Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN);

Whereas recently United Methodists, particularly in the United States, have signaled their desire for the denomination to become a church home, “where LGBTQIA+ people will be protected, affirmed, and empowered in the life and ministry of the church” in large part due to the ongoing work of the Reconciling Ministries Network;

Whereas no matter what happens at this year’s General Conference, Reconciling Ministries Network will continue their advocacy work, “committed to intersectional justice across and beyond the United Methodist connection for the full participation of all LGBTQ+ people throughout the life and leadership of the church”;

Whereas many of our BW Conference members have supported this international movement by serving on the Board of RMN, by becoming individual Reconciling United Methodists, by becoming Reconciling Congregations and Communities; and

Whereas the “denomination now looks to rebuild and revive and Reconciling Ministries Network members see hope that people at the social margins can be at the center of this renewed growth just as they were in the early church”; now

Therefore, be it Resolved, that the Baltimore-Washington Conference affirms and celebrates the 40 years of RMN’s justice ministry that draws from the Wesleyan understanding of God’s grace “that embraces all of creation and seeks its’ restoration and perfection in love.”

Effective Date: Immediately

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.