Christ United Methodist Church is known as a diverse and welcoming congregation. We are now in the process of declaring a written welcoming statement.
3 years ago Pastor Lee asked Gary Gruebnau to create a group and explore if CUMC might become part of the United Methodist Reconciling Ministries Network. The network’s stated mission is to “mobilize United Methodists of all sexual orientations and gender identities to transform our Church and world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love.”
In March 2014 the Administrative Board charged a committee to explore the process.
In May 2016 our church consecrated the Reconciling Ministries Task Force to listen to members’ concerns, provide further learning opportunities, and continue a process toward declaring our welcoming statement.
In September 2016 the task force presented worshippers with a proposed inclusive Welcoming Statement and conducted a nonbinding referendum. 85% of respondents supported adopting the statement. Ongoing conversation and educational opportunities were offered to those requesting further study.
Now the task force is asking the Administrative Board to bring the Welcoming Statement to every active church member for a decisive vote in February. Please watch for further communications and continue to lift this up in prayer.
You may review the proposed Welcoming Statement here.
Members of Reconciling Ministries Task Force: Gary Gruebnau, Pastor Ron Greene, Judy Baker, Cheryl Fournier, Janet Graf, Kareen Hernandez, Marty Himebaugh, Evy Markowski, Lyna Michel, Linda Mullen, Gary Slagle, Katy Spooner, Debbie Thomas