Reconciling Ministry Process

If you are reading this blog, you may already know that Highlands UMC is in the process of deciding whether to become a Reconciling Congregation. We are already a church with a warm and welcoming spirit of hospitality, and we are discerning how God is leading us forward to live that out in our community.

Reconciling Congregations are churches that have approved an official and public statement of welcome that affirms lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered persons to full participation in the life and leadership of the congregation. You can learn more about this at the Reconciling Ministries Network. Individuals can also sign up as "Reconciling United Methodists."

The next step in our process is a Bible study called Claiming the Promise, an ecumenical, welcoming Bible Study resource on homosexuality. This seven-week Bible study will give our congregation an opportunity to study the Bible together and discuss the issue of full inclusion of Gay, Lesbian, Transgendered and Bisexual persons into Highlands UMC. Claiming the Promise:

• Examines biblical references to same-sex conduct in light of the broader biblical message which affirms we are children or heirs of the Promise.
• Explores biblical authority and biblical interpretation.
• Discusses "gracious hospitality," "gift-ed sexuality," and "inclusive holiness."
• Tackles hard questions of "right relationship," lust/love, and sexual responsibility.
• Calls us to live out the Promise as reconciling disciples.

We are offering this study at two different times:

Tuesday evening 7:00 - 8:30 PM, Feb. 3 through March 17
or Wednesday afternoon 1:00 - 2:30 PM, Feb. 4 through March 18

Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry will lead these studies. The participant book costs $6.00. If you cannot attend the sessions but are interested in the study, we can still order a book for you.

If you would like to take part but have not yet signed up, please contact the church office immediately. We have placed an initial order for study books, but may still be able to get additional copies in time for our first sessions next week.

May God's Spirit continue to move in your life!