Laity Space Weekend Update

Laity Space Update

July 16, 2022

Shanice Richards leading worship at AC22. Photo cred: Brittany Jackson

From the FLUMC

Feeling the Feelings by Derrick Scott III
Of many things we need to do in this season as United Methodist lay leaders in Florida, modeling how to process our emotions with the tools of worship, scripture and prayer might be the most important contribution. Read more.

FLUMC News: Honoring Dr. Mary McLeod-Bethune’s legacy
On Wednesday morning, July 13, Dr. Mary McLeod-Bethune’s life of unselfish service and faith was acknowledged with one of the nation's highest honors: an 8-foot, 6,300-pound marble statue of Dr. Bethune in an educator’s cap and gown was formally unveiled at Statuary Hall inside the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Read Joe Henderson’s article here.

Florida Conference Response to Disaffiliation Lawsuits
Bishop Carter sends a letter to the laity and clergy of the Florida Conference in response to the report of a lawsuit filed by 106 congregations who desire to exit the denomination. Read the letter here.

From Laity Space

New Episode of the Laity Space Podcast
Alice Williams sits down with Rev. Pam Carter to discuss some of her journey into the UMC and why she loves this denomination. You can check out this bonus episode here or stream it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon/Audible and Google Platforms.

FAQs on Disaffiliations and the Continuing UMC
In the Spring 2022, we released a set of FAQs in response to the launch of the Global Methodist Church. While much has happened since then, this document may be a helpful place to start as you engage conversations about disaffiliation and the continuing UMC. As we work on an update, view this current version of FAQs here.

News from Around the UMC

Wespath and Gammon Partner to Address Financial Wellness
"This partnership with Wespath emerged as a result of our inaugural research project focused on the Impact of COVID on Black UMC Pastors, Leaders and Congregations report," explained the Rev. Dr. Candace M. Lewis, President-Dean at Gammon. "Wespath is pleased to partner with Gammon on this important work to strengthen ministry by addressing inequities in communities of color," said Andy Hendren, General Secretary and CEO of Wespath. Read more here.

A New Path for Scouting Ministries
After months of negotiation between the Ad Hoc Committee of United Methodist’s leadership team and the Boy Scouts of America, a new “Affiliation Agreement” has been finalized and approved by The UMC Ad Hoc Leadership Team, BSA top executives and GCUMM top executives. Read more here.

Church and Society Announces 2022 Grant Funding Cycle
Grants support local UMC churches, annual conferences, caucuses and community partners to further ministries of justice and peace. Read more here.

Reminders for FLUMC Laity

Technology Grants for Rural and Small Membership Churches
The pandemic increased the need for technology so churches could offer hybrid ministry both in person and on-line. Smaller, rural churches are in need of support to meet these technology needs. These grants will go to churches who have proven the ability to have faithful hybrid ministry. This grant is available to churches with average worship attendance under 100 and/or those located in rural areas. Grants will be disbursed in a one-time lump-sum payment. Click here for more info.

Young Adult Missional Movement
The Young Adult Missional Movement is a program for young adults ages 18-30 who are interested in exploring their faith in new ways by living and serving in communities around the State of Florida. For more info, check out the YAMM website.

Local Church Lay Leaders
Are you a local church lay leader? We would love to connect with you and keep you updated on all that is happening with the Conference Board of Laity. Find the form here.

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