It's family reunion time. Annual Conference is when the family of metho-nerds gather in worship and study and holy conferencing. This year, in Danvers, we have special guests leading us in a "long talk about the uncomfortable truth." It's about engaging in real conversation about how to be anti-racist, because just being "ok" with being a non-racist isn't enough. Bishop Bickerton encouraged us "to step up our game" in the face of growing hatred and policies that discriminate. We have a shared mission to eradicate racism and dismantle systemic oppression in America. So in our time together, we're working to energize and empower allies in pursuit of truth, problem solving and cooperative activism.
The Bishop called this intentional and deliberate work to be at the core of our being as Christians all the time, not just an add-on activity when we have time. And he reminded us that the immigrant is everywhere and nowhere is safe.
Our own Robert Kambo, the Assoc. Conference Lay Leader, Deacon Kristy Besada, and Wanakee Exec. Director Evan McElreath (whose charge is MSUMC) are here with me and Lisa Svenson joins us online for this important work together. And I had a lovely conversation with Rich Cullen yesterday who will preach for me on July 13 when I'm on the Conference trip to Iona.
peace,
RevKelly
