Laity Space Weekend Update - September 4, 2022

Laity Space Update

September 4, 2022

Embodying God’s Grace

No Small Thing by Derrick Scott III
”Every Sunday, God is at work in the lives of the people who join our livestreams and/or show up to our worship services. The Holy Spirit has done the heavy lifting - inspiring these people, in some cases, to leave their homes and give faith in Jesus one more try.” Read this weekend’s Lay Leader Reflection here.

Welcoming Rev. Dr. Martyn Atkins to the Florida Conference
The Rev. Dr. Martyn Atkins has long been an influential voice for the Methodist Church in Britain. He will be spending a year as the Senior Pastor at Lighthouse UMC in Boca Grande. Read more of the FLUMC news article here.

Kedging our way toward a Hopeful Future by Rev. Michael Beck
The United Methodist Church can feel like an ocean liner being tossed on a stormy sea of cultural change. Sometimes all our efforts can feel futile, as if we’re rearranging deck chairs on a sinking ship. Read Rev. Michael Beck’s UMNews article here.

Mark Your Calendars

Voter Canvassing Training: September 6
The Anti-Racism Public Policy & Witness Team is hosting a Voter Canvassing Training for anyone who would like to get involved canvassing door to door in their neighborhood. For more information, click here.

Table Talk on Sept. 7: "What is MLK's Beloved Community? II"
The Beloved Community host a monthly half-hour conversation with various speakers about anti-racism efforts in our Conference. The next webinar, "What is MLK's Beloved Community? II" will air live on Wednesday, September 7. Click here to register for the September 7 event and view past webinars.

SEJ BMCR Conference - October 13-15 in Richmond, Virginia
The upcoming SEJ meeting for Black Methodists for Church Renewal will be held October 13-15, 2022 in Richmond, VA. For more information on registration and more, click here.

The Continuing UMC

From UMCom: “We are the church. Together”
As a denomination, it’s important that pastors, church staff and members have a common understanding of the core background of The United Methodist Church. United Methodist Communications has released a slide deck that will make it easier to talk about our shared beliefs, history, mission and ministry as we continue to stand strong and face the future together. For more information, check out the press release here.

FLUMC Resources for the Continuing UMC
The Florida Conference has compiled a number of resources to support communication towards the future of the UMC. Check out all the videos, articles and more here.

Updates regarding Florida Conference Disaffiliations
We continue to compile a list of relevant articles, official statements, informative blogs and FAQs on disaffiliations occurring within the Conference in light of the launch of the GMC. This page will be updated regularly. Click here for more.

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