Global Ministries the GENERAL CONFERENCE of the UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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DCA Advance Edition Global Ministries THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Volume 2 Nashville, Tennessee General Board of Global Ministries

I. OVERVIEW vibrates within annual and central conferences; congregations, large and small; schools and colleges; hospitals; The General Board of Global Ministries is the and ethnic, racial, geographical, and social networks, global mission agency of The United Methodist Church, Global Ministries is a facilitator of mission—passionate its annual conferences, missionary conferences, and for partnership and open to the mission visions of others. local congregations. In ministry together, Global Ministries brings to the John Wesley set the tone for mission work in the table those who are in partnership with a conference or Methodist tradition in 1739 when he wrote, “I look upon group of congregations in order to share the work, set all the world as my parish.” Global Ministries traces its priorities together, and achieve as much transparency institutional roots to the denomination’s Board of and accountability as possible. Partnerships with the Foreign Missions, formed in 1834. Today, as the world- Large Churches Initiative, the Mission Society in the wide mission agency of The United Methodist Church, US, and mission boards of other churches such as The Global Ministries has personnel, projects, and partners Methodist Church in Britain or the United Church of in more than 136 countries. Canada, are building new relationships in the Connection. Through Volunteers in Mission, hundreds The Great Commission is quite clear: “Go . . . of thousands of United Methodists are engaging in serv- preach make disciples . . . all nations. . . .” United ice opportunities in the US and around the world each Methodists understand this mandate to include witness year These partnerships give Global Ministries the to Jesus Christ in word, attitude, ethical treatment of opportunity to expand the scope of ministry by shifting others, and service to all in need. The capacity to preach, energy from doing mission to facilitating mission— make disciples, and serve depends on God’s grace in ministering with communities, rather than to them. Jesus Christ, on God’s blessings, and on responding to the gift of grace.

As the mission agency for a global church, Global eadership from Global Ministries and The Ministries sends missionaries from everywhere to Mission Society met in August 2010 to start a everywhere, a reality underscored at Edinburgh 2010, conversation on possibilities for cooperation which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the confer- L ence that ushered in the 20th-century missionary move- and collaboration. Important steps were taken toward ment. Patterns of service are different in the 21st century practical interaction between the organizations, par- than in the 19th or 20th centuries, particularly as the ticularly as it may relate to personnel and partner rela- center of Christian gravity has shifted to central Africa. tions in mission situations. In 2008, General The need, however, for professional mission service has not changed. Missionaries incarnate the universal mes- Conference resolved that Global Ministries hold con- sage of the church, sharing their faith in foreign lands sultations with The Mission Society. The society has in and bringing back their new experiences and transform- recent years established a non-denominational iden- ing themselves, the church, and the world. tity and no longer uses the phrase “ . . . of The United One mission organization cannot do all the mission Methodist Church” in its public promotion. work for which God is calling United Methodists. Through connecting with the mission energy that

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t the heart of Global Ministries’ mission is to be in ministry with the world’s most vulnerable people. At any given time, staff and missionaries put their lives in the balance Abecause they are bound to ideals of justice and peace. Working and ministering with communities means sharing risks and sacrifices. While Global Ministries had not lost any staff in the field in 20 years, in 2010 the organization lost three people who were responding to the needs of a broken world.

In August 2010, Dan Terry, an aid worker who, for 30 years worked and lived in Afghanistan as part of the community, was murdered along with 10 other people. The Rev. Sam Dixon, the head of the United Methodist Committee on Relief and the Rev. Clinton Rabb, who led the mission volunteers for Global Ministries, died in January 2010 as a result of the same earthquake that took the lives of nearly 300,000 Haitians. The Rev. James Gulley, a Global Ministries consultant, who survived being trapped for 55 hours with the two men, says, “We remember that all the good they contributed in their lives has been multiplied through the Spirit of Christ working to bring forth God’s kingdom of healing, wholeness, and just relationships . . . we have picked up their mantles and are carrying on.”

Global Ministries has four mission goals. The affected the number of directors, relations with United four goals summarize the responsibilities of Global Methodist Women, and created a vision for the future. Ministries as set forth in The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church and in the specific program The directors voted to reduce their number by two- assignments made by General Conference. The goals are thirds, from 92 to 32, while retaining a strong balance as follows: among members from the United States and central conferences. A long-held concern for diversity in member- Goal 1: Make Disciples of Jesus Christ ship along gender and racial lines will be upheld. Goal 2: Strengthen, Develop, and Renew Christian Congregations and Communities The strategic plan concerns such issues as program Goal 3: Alleviate Human Suffering and administrative operation, key performance areas, Goal 4: Seek Justice, Freedom, and Peace and formal statements of theology and purpose. A. Global Ministries’ Strategic Plan Theology of Mission During the quadrennium, Global Ministries went The Board Strategic Planning Team developed a through a strategic planning process. The purpose of the mission theology statement that guides Global Ministries’ process was to answer three key questions: participation in the Missio Dei. This theology of mission was developed as grounding for the organization’s work. 1. What do we know to be true about Global It is the foundation of the vision and purpose of mission. Ministries? It frames Global Ministries’ role within the denomina- 2. What do we hope will be true for Global tional mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the Ministries in the future? transformation of the world. The transforming power 3. What must go well in order to make it so? belongs to God, and Global Ministries is in mission to witness to what God has done and is doing, and to learn As a result of the process, directors of Global from what God is doing in every land where disciples Ministries took three major interrelated actions. These gather in the name of Jesus Christ. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1089

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God’s Mission from Creation to Completion Christ. This grace calls us to repentance, and to active God’s Mission reclaims the life of all creatures and faith and good works in Christ. Active faith participates redeems all creation for God’s intended purpose. Holy in the perfecting and fulfilling grace of God, which Scriptures bear witness to mission that begins with God, claims and implements the promises of God to deliver belongs to God, and will be fulfilled by God at the end exploited persons and oppressed peoples, to restore the of time. The Spirit of God, which moved over the waters sanctity and integrity of God’s creation, and to reconcile of chaos at creation, and the Word of God, which division in the households of faith and among the peo- became Incarnate in Jesus Christ, leads on to fullness in ples and nations of the earth, as all of creation groans for God’s purpose. redemption. The Wesleyan expectation of “perfection in love” draws redeemed individuals into appropriate, The Self-Emptying Life of Jesus the Christ in active, transforming relationships of wholeness and Service to the Least and the Last unity with God, all people, and creation. Repentance In response to God’s Mission for him, Jesus— and faith elicit both personal salvation and social and whom we Christians acknowledge as God’s Son and as cosmic transformation. the Christ, the anointed servant of God, and as our savior—poured himself out in servanthood for all human- Transformative Witness ity, emptied himself of divine privilege, assuming the The Church in Mission lifts up the name of Jesus trials and risks of human limitation. With compassion, in thought, word, and deed, proclaiming Jesus Christ Jesus identified with all humanity and lived in radical as “the Word become flesh” through its own incarnate faithfulness to the will of God. He became obedient unto living, deeds of love and service, healing and renewal. death—even a humiliating public execution. In raising By representing the revelation of God in Christ in Jesus from the dead, God shows willingness and power word and deed, the Church remains faithful both to the to reconcile all creation and to restore the world to its Great Commandment that we love God with all our divine purpose. heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love our neighbor as ourselves; and to the Great Commission that we The Church as a Community of Servanthood in Mission make disciples of all nations. The Church as faithful God’s Holy Spirit calls the Church into being for community moves full of hope toward the transforma- mission. The Church is one sign of God’s presence in tion of the world and the day when God’s Mission is the world and of God’s intention for creation. In fulfilled. response to God’s call and the leading of the Holy Spirit, women and men, young and old, of all nations, stations, God’s Prior Presence, Our Current Response and races, and in all times and places unite as the living God’s light shines in every corner of the earth, and body of Christ to join God’s Mission of redemption, God’s Mission extends to all creation. There are no bearing witness to God’s presence in the world. This places where God’s grace has not always been present, community of faith aspires to live out the potential of only places where God in Christ is not recognized, new life in Christ among all human beings now, while served, or heeded. Because God’s image is present in envisioning the fulfillment of God’s Reign and the com- every human being throughout the world, mission part- pletion of God’s Mission. The Church experiences and nership embraces witness in all cultures, traditions, engages in God’s Mission as it pours itself out for oth- political arrangements, economic structures, and lan- ers, ready to cross every boundary to call for true human guages. Partners in God’s Mission seek to hear God’s dignity among all peoples, especially among those voice, to discover the signs of the moving of the Spirit regarded as the least of God’s children, all the while through the world today, and to bear witness to God’s making disciples of Christ for the transformation of the activity—overarching past, present, and future—in world. every local setting.

Grace at Work Everywhere The Spirit’s Surprising Activity In our Wesleyan tradition we acknowledge the The Spirit is always moving to sweep the Church grace of God placed in our hearts and at work in the into a new mission age. With openness and gratitude we world before any action on our part. In response we await the leading of the Spirit in ways not yet seen as accept and proclaim grace that sets us upon the right God continues to work God’s purposes out in our own path of obedience to the Word made flesh in Jesus day in a new way. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1090

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PURPOSE AND VISION New Relationship Proposed Between Global Ministries and the Women’s Division Mission of The United Methodist Church Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transfor- Global Ministries and United Methodist Women mation of the world (UMW) took action to become structurally separate while remaining connected in mission. The action Purpose of the General Board of Global reflects a denominational emphasis on the need for Ministries renewed, vital congregations and church organization in Connecting the Church in mission the 21st century. The proposal to separate governance and staff structures will come to the 2012 General Vision of the General Board of Global Conference and would go into effect for the next qua- Ministries drennium. Provisions include: The General Board of Global Ministries equips and transforms people and places for God’s Mission Partnership: Global Ministries and UMW staff around the world. would continue to share information through roundtables and cross-functional teams, deepening collaboration on mission and ministry. Organizational Values The following values were developed based on Boards of Directors: Five members on Global input and feedback from employees of the agency and Ministries’ proposed 32-director board would be named the Board of Directors. by UMW, and Global Ministries would name five mem- Global Ministries’ Organizational Values bers to UMW’s new Program Advisory Group. This will provide settings for governance-level synergy to support We recognize that the values of the organization the staff-level collaboration. are expressed in how we interact with one another, our partners, constituents, and those we serve. As such, we Missionaries: As the missionary-sending agency have articulated important values that guide our actions of The United Methodist Church, Global Ministries and ground our work. We affirm our history, tradition, would continue to provide support with the processing and mandate of being engaged in ministry with the of UMW regional missionaries. poor, as we serve Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of the world. Missionally Connected: Areas of synergy between the two operations would be strengthened through spe- We embrace God’s covenant of Love and Justice cific strategies developed in the settings mentioned and engage in ministry with persons and groups who are above. The Church Center for United Nations (CCUN) poor and marginalized. owned by UMW, would continue to serve as a link for Global Ministries to the UN and NGO community. Two We are Accountable for being Fruitful in our work Global Ministries’ staff persons would continue to serve and Faithful in the stewardship of the resources entrusted on UMW’s editorial board, focusing on resources for to us. mission education. The annual mission Prayer Calendar We Respect one another for the gifts and talents would continue to represent the mission work of the that each brings to our individual ministries and the whole Church. In addition, Global Ministries would common calling. help promote and would release staff to teach at Schools of Christian Mission. We Collaborate and build Trust with our mission B. The Advance partners, annual conferences, local churches, and the communities we serve. The Advance for Christ and His Church (“The Advance”) is the accountable, designated mission- We approach our work with Humility and giving arm of The United Methodist Church that ensures Integrity, learning from those with whom we are in 100 percent of each gift is used for its intended mission mission. or ministry. The work of The Advance fulfills both physical and spiritual needs through a variety of partnerships We practice Servant Leadership in our work. worldwide, to reach mutual goals that make a life- 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1091

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changing and long-lasting impact. Gifts to The Advance Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference represent second-mile giving—contributions that are reports approximately 6,000 members and 84 churches, given after a congregation has met its “first-mile” with several of these congregations more than 100 years responsibility to support The United Methodist old. Oklahoma is home to the majority of the congrega- Church’s missions and ministries through World Service tions, however the conference has one church in Dallas and other apportioned funds. This “second-mile” giving, and three churches and one fellowship in Kansas. beyond apportioned remittance, is an outward sign of an inward love for Christ and the church. The Red Bird Missionary Conference is in ministry with Appalachian families living in the coal region The Advance operates with the highest level of of southeastern Kentucky. Churches in the Red Bird accountability, integrity, and transparency: Missionary Conference are working to teach and train local leaders, and also to provide long-term discipleship. • The General Board of Global Ministries has a Church and outreach personnel work diligently with the system of accountability in place to ensure all children through camp and youth groups. They provide gifts given through The Advance reach the Bible studies for the adults and fellowship activities. intended mission or ministry. The Appalachian Local Pastors School provides training • Using wire transfers removes many of the risks for local pastors. faced when mailing or carrying funds to projects directly. The Alaska United Methodist Conference is a • Gifts can be tracked to the penny and to the date. group of 28 churches, two community institutions, and • Global Ministries conducts audits through a sys- two camps living and ministering with Alaskans. tem of regional auditors and under the oversight Ministries focus on youth, students, military chaplaincy, of an independent audit committee to ensure the indigenous peoples, music, health, economics, environ- appropriate use of funds. ment, global relief, and general missions. • Since 2009, The Advance requires an annual report from each project to help foster accounta- On January 1, 2009, the Malawi United Methodist bility, increase promotion, and communicate with Church celebrated its status as the new Missionary project partners throughout the world. Conference of The United Methodist Church. It grew from a handful of churches to a thriving conference of On October 10, 2010, Global Ministries through 22 circuits and over 140 churches, reflecting John The Advance launched 10-Fold, an interactive 10-day Wesley’s passion and commitment to preach the good web-based global mission gathering. Through 10-Fold, news to those in the most rural villages. more than 275,000 people from more than 90 countries visited www.10-fold.org, chatted with mission leaders D. General Conference Assignments via webcast, became advocates of Global Ministries’ projects, encouraged others to learn about ministries, and raised support for these incredibly valuable missions and projects. A 12-month plan leveraged the Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the momentum by continuing to connect supporters in mis- Caribbean and Holistic Strategy on Africa sion and leading into the 2011 10-Fold event. Special Programs: 2009–2012

C. Missionary Conferences Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the Missionary Conferences represent special mission Caribbean Coordinating Group gathered in several occa- opportunities in areas of limited membership potential sions during the quadrennium, under the leadership of and resources, have unique ministerial and leadership Bishop Peter D. Weaver. Representatives from all the needs, and may involve strategic regional or language program general agencies presented reports on the considerations. Global Ministries relates to these con- involvement of their agencies in Latin America and the ferences providing guidance and assistance. Missionary Caribbean. CIEMAL Directive Board and the connex- conferences are organized in the same manner as annual ional president of the Methodist Church in the conferences and are under episcopal supervision. There Caribbean and the Americas offered vital information. are four missionary conferences: Oklahoma Indian, Red Legislative pieces and denominational studies were dis- Bird, Alaska, and Malawi. cussed under the direction of participating UM bishops 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1092

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and MARCHA representatives. A concerted agenda and Violence), working through its Inter-Agency programmatic directions for the future were crafted. and Standing Committee Task Force, coordi- Global Ministries supported the process in terms of nates the denomination’s global response to context information, funding, logistics, worship and alcohol, chemical abuse and dependency, and translation resources, and in other ways. related violence. It is a general church initiative, administered by Global Ministries. As specified in a 2008 General Conference petition, 1. SPSARV prepares clergy, lay leaders, and the Holistic Strategy on Africa Special Program enables church professionals to be informed and com- the general agencies to work together to address issues passionate responders to the needs of individu- related to Africa, with administrative oversight and sup- als and families impacted by the disease of port from the General Board of Global Ministries. The addiction. SPSARV provides resources across program provides a forum for leaders to discuss issues the United Methodist connectional system to related to the central conferences in Africa (e.g., congregations, districts, conferences, institu- poverty, HIV/AIDS, strengthening theological educa- tions, and ecumenical partners. tion, etc.) for sharing pertinent information, giving and receiving feedback, taking action when necessary, and 2. Ministry with the Deaf: The United Methodist reporting to the Church through the full body of the Committee on Ministries with Deaf, Late-deaf- Council of Bishops. This strategy seeks to assist The ened, Hard of Hearing and Deaf-blind People UMC in Africa to strengthen and expand witness and (DHM) works both locally and globally. ministry on the continent by strengthening ties between Through Advance gifts and other funds, projects annual conferences in Africa and those in Europe, the were supported during the quadrennium in the US, and others for the purpose of supporting witness US (Texas, Arkansas, Virginia, Baltimore, and service, especially in the creation of effective mod- Washington, Maryland, and Pennsylvania) and els of church development. globally (South Korea, Honduras, Haiti, Mexico, Sri Lanka, and India). Partial funds By engaging the leadership in important decision- were provided for teen camps for deaf students, making and through presenting proposals, these needs for a deaf-blind camp and for persons seeking to may be placed before the Church with broader support engage in ministry through certification and dis- on behalf of the church in Africa. A new direction will aster response training. build upon the successful elements of the late Africa 1. The committee began working with the Older Church and Development Program (concluded in 2006 Adult Division and the national Task Force for after 10 years) in order to bring to the Holistic Strategy DisAbility Ministries. A priority was set for on Africa Special Program the vitality, persuasive Haiti Response, and contact was made with the power, and dynamism that came from the old program’s deaf community in Port-au-Prince. essential approach. The forum will give attention to many critical matters necessary to forge a holistic strate- 3. The Pacific-Islander Ministry Study explored gic plan that can serve as the basis of collaboration in ways to empower Pacific-Island United areas such as theological and higher education, distance Methodists to fully participate in the life of The learning, global health, publishing, and pensions for UMC and be agents of Christian love and serv- pastors. ice within the world community; enable Pacific- Islander United Methodists to navigate their faith life in their new surroundings, incorporate their gifts from their respective island homes Global Ministries was tasked by the 2008 General with appropriate resources in their new home; Conference with oversight for several ministries inten- join all members of The UMC in bringing dif- tionally designed for specific groups. These are whole- ferent and diverse gifts to the table; and affirm church initiatives administered by Global Ministries. the common heritage of Pacific-Island people. Full reports appear in the addendum. These are high- lights of their work: 4. The National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry works in four areas of ministry to ful- 1. SPSARV (The United Methodist Special fill its mission: development of new congrega- Program on Substance Abuse and Related tions, immigration ministry and other critical 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1093

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social issues, annual conference and local- missionaries and in the mission field, working in part- church strategy, and leadership formation. The nership with agencies and mission centers, internation- 2009–2012 Eight-Priority Conference Strategy ally and in the US. The year 2011 marks the 60th is the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino anniversary of the US-2 program. This now-venerable Ministry’s intentional focus on resources in channel of service has enriched the lives of thousands of areas with the greatest Hispanic/Latino popula- young men and women, and through their witness tions and disparate numbers of Hispanic/Latino touched countless youth and adults. clergy, churches, and resources. 5. The Korean-American National Plan Enthusiasm runs high for witness and service strengthens Korean-American Ministries within among youth and young adults. Global Ministries has a and outside the church by administering funds to great deal of experience in equipping young adults for develop and support projects. The Korean- mission—with a wide network of contacts for recruit- American National Plan was established by the ment of participants and placements. These leaders United Methodist General Conference of 2000 work in communities that face such issues as poverty, for the purpose of strengthening Korean min- violence, substance abuse, racism, human-rights viola- istries within and outside the church. tions, immigration, health challenges, childcare, envi- 6. The Asian-American Language Plan ronmental justice, and criminal justice. Young-adult addresses Asian-American ministry concerns in missionary programs make a significant contribution to four areas: resource development, leadership shaping ethical, prophetic Christian leaders. They have development, congregational development, and firsthand experience of the basics of mission in a world community development. This past quadren- of injustice and need, are encouraged to engage in disci- nium saw the development of an effort to bring plined theological reflection, and are equipped to dis- together Asian-American young adults from all cern God’s calling for their lives. 10 Asian sub-groups in worship, study, and fellowship. Youth and young adults are not just the hope in churches for tomorrow; they serve through Global II. FOUR AREAS OF FOCUS Ministries as leaders in churches and ministries today. With energy, vision, enthusiasm, and deep faith, youth Global Ministries has a long heritage of working in and young adults inform and transform the direction of the four areas of focus set for general agencies in the The United Methodist Church, making a positive differ- 2009–2012 quadrennium by the Connectional Table and ence in the world. the Council of Bishops: developing Christian leaders, creating new places for new people, engaging in min- 2. Leadership Development istry with the poor, and addressing global health needs. Therefore the central part of the report is organized An average of 225 students from some 50 countries around these areas of focus. benefited each year of the quadrennium from leadership development scholarships through Global Ministries. A. Developing Principled Christian Leaders The total investment exceeded $5 million. These educa- for the Church and the World tional opportunities equip men and women for leader- Global Ministries cultivates and strengthens church ship roles both in church and communities, conveying leaders to ensure a growing and vibrant church through- Christ’s message of hope throughout the world. They out the world. Mission studies, Schools of Christian study in certificate and university-level programs around Mission, and training programs in the US and overseas the globe. Each year there are new students; for exam- broaden the reach and accessibility for leadership train- ple, in 2010–2011, there were 51 new and 173 continuing throughout the United Methodist connection. ing scholars. Hands-on programs such as summer internships and individual volunteers provide opportunities for practical A significant proportion of the students are World ministry experience. Communion Scholars (former Crusade Scholars), funded through the World Communion Offering 1. Young Adult Missionaries Scholars in United Methodist churches. This program Global Ministries is intentional about increasing assists persons of international and US racial/ethnic the number of young adults and ways that they serve as minorities to attain master or doctoral degrees in a wide 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1094

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range of fields including medicine, education, law, and 5. Deaconess/Home Missioner Programs theology. All areas of study must respond in one way or The Women’s Division Office of Deaconess and another to the four areas of emphasis: elimination of Home Missioner exists for laity in The United poverty, global health, leadership, and congregational Methodist Church who feel called by God to a full-time development. The other scholarship funds come from vocation in service with those who are marginalized and endowed trusts. in need in the world today. Deaconesses, who are laywomen, and home missioners, who are laymen, form a In the 2011–2012 academic year, 69 of the interna- covenant community that is rooted in Scripture, tional students were from Africa, 32 from Asia, 16 from informed by history, driven by mission, ecumenical in Europe/Eurasia, and 66 from Latin America and the scope, and global in outreach. This community of laity Caribbean, including 12 from Haiti. Of the racial/ethnic has responded to the call of God in their lives and has students from the US, 21 were African Americans, 10 been commissioned by The United Methodist Church in Asian Americans, and 10 Hispanic/Latinos—a truly a global parish of scholars. a lifetime relationship to full-time ministries of love, justice, and service. 3. Missionary Recruitment and New Categories 6. Schools of Christian Mission and National With new staff and renewed enthusiasm for mis- Seminars sion, an intentional campaign has been implemented to Schools of Christian Mission began in the mid- promote, guide, and invite individuals to answer the call 1930s by the Woman’s Home Missionary Society. Every to serve as missionaries of The United Methodist year more than 20,000 people participate in the Schools Church through Global Ministries. of Christian Mission. They take place across every As of mid-2011, the number of standard-support United Methodist conference and are organized by missionaries is budgeted at 220. In addition, 49 church United Methodist Women leadership. Schools of and community workers are devoted to uplifting the Christian Mission are opportunities to study current poor and disenfranchised in rural and urban settings issues impacting society based on recent mission study throughout the United States. There are more than 20 topics. Each school offers classes on a topic covering missionaries serving through the National Plan for spiritual growth, geographic study, and a social issue. At Hispanic and Latino Ministries. Schools of Christian Mission, attendees grow in understanding of the mission of the church in the current There are various categories of missionary and mis- world context. The studies give particular attention to sion personnel service that extend beyond the categories the responsibilities of women in the fulfillment of the mentioned above. Included are partnerships or grants to mission work of the church. Schools include worship, and with annual conferences, central conferences, interest groups around current issues, officer training, autonomous churches, and mission hubs to support spe- and fellowship events. cific contexts. These include 370 Nationals in Mission (formerly known as “Persons in Mission”). The United Methodist Women National Seminar is a social justice education and leadership development 4. Assembly 2010: Faith • Hope • Love in Action event for invited United Methodist Women members United Methodist Women assemble every four across the country. It is an opportunity to explore current years to celebrate, lift up, learn, and return to their com- realities in the world and dialogue about how to respond munities better equipped for mission. Tens of thousands as people of faith. of women have been meeting in this fashion since 1942 B. Starting New Congregations and in a unified effort to stay at the forefront of the work Renewing Existing Ones being done both locally and globally, both systemically and in charity, to improve and sustain the lives of Global Ministries partnered in the 2009–2012 women, children, and youth. Assembly 2010 was quadrennium to plant 400 new churches and worship themed Faith • Hope • Love in Action and was held in communities outside the US, primarily through recent St. Louis, Missouri, from April 30 to May 2. With more mission initiatives in Africa, Asia, Central America, and than 6,500 attendees, it featured worship, an Ubuntu Eastern Europe. Additional efforts by Global Ministries day of service, an experience hall, and an assembly for congregational development include strengthening action. ethnic and racial congregations in the US, sponsoring 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1095

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academies for church growth in Africa, forging mission mission pastors was commissioned. The first national partnerships between congregations in the US and those mission outreach offering was received and shared in in other countries, and sending missionaries who assist three ways: new church development, Wesley indigenous leaders to start and nurture new churches. Theological College in Ho Chi Minh City, and mission 1. Mission Initiatives work in Laos. The mission is working toward official recognition by the Vietnamese government. It is antici- New churches are being planted in new places pated that by 2012, the constitution and bylaws will be through Global Ministries’ mission initiatives in: approved and they will begin to elect leaders. In 2010, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Global Ministries inaugurated the Mission Center in Ho Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan), Honduras, Latvia, Chi Minh City. Lithuania, Malawi, Mongolia, Nepal, Russia, Senegal, and Southeast Asia (Laos, Thailand, Vietnam). They are b. Africa: The United Methodist Church in a means of living out a strong biblical and disciplinary Malawi, begun in 1987, was first a mission outreach of mandate to make disciples of all nations, linking the Zimbabwe UMC. Six Malawian pastors, trained in Christian communities together through a connectional Zimbabwean schools, started 12 Methodist circuits in system. More than 300 new churches have been planted Malawi in 1998. Today, the church has grown to 22 cir- since 2009, which suggests that the original goal of 400 cuits with 150 congregations and 19,000 members. new churches outside of the US will be surpassed by the Approval as a provisional annual conference at the 2012 end of 2012. Eventually, some of these congregations General Conference is being considered. may form United Methodist annual or central conferences, or they may choose to develop as autonomous The 30 vibrant faith communities of the Cameroon Methodist communions. Mission Initiative invited Bishop Benjamin Boni, from Côte d’Ivoire, to celebrate the ordination of its first nine Some examples of ministry happening in the mis- United Methodist pastors, including one woman. sion initiatives: Cameroon United Methodists have sponsored eye clinics, providing more that 1,000 people with free eye- a. Southeast Asia: The mission initiative in glasses. In 2010, the church trained 14 teams of five Cambodia represents a unique mission methodology, persons each in health ministries, for a total of 70 new because five different Methodist communions have developed the mission together: the US United health workers. Health teams facilitate treatment pro- Methodist Church through Global Ministries, the United grams and promote malaria and HIV/AIDS awareness Methodist Church in Switzerland and France, the and prevention through education. Methodist Church in Singapore, the World Federation of Chinese Methodist Churches, and the Korean Methodist c. Latin America: The Honduras Mission Church. International cooperation among Methodists Initiative began in 1994. Today, La Iglesia Metodista de has enabled the building of schools, churches, and com- Honduras, a community of Christ-seeking men, women, munity ministries. Since 1989, when the initiative and children across Honduras, has built 12 growing con- started with three Methodist churches, the community in gregations. The church seeks to serve its community by Cambodia has grown to 150 congregations served by providing bread, water, and healthcare through its com- more than 20 Methodist and United Methodist mission- munity-based healthcare program. aries, 10 ordained deacons, and 100 lay leaders. By 2016, Methodists in Cambodia intend to be constituted d. Eastern Europe and Eurasia: The United as an autonomous Methodist church. Methodist Church in Latvia has 13 organized churches (11 Latvian speaking, 2 Russian speaking). Two of its Since 2002, more than 200 United Methodist major mission programs are Wesley Camp, a 30-acre churches have been established with more than 12,000 retreat on the shore of the Baltic Sea; and Hope Center, participants in Vietnam’s 39 provinces. Basing the which provides shelter for homeless and underage preg- church development model on John Wesley’s class nant girls. Methodism first came to Latvia in early 1921, meetings, small groups meet weekly to “foster fellow- quickly grew to 20 congregations, and in 1925 sent its ship, worship God, study the Bible, and evangelize.” first missionary to India. World War II and the Soviet At the 2011 annual meeting, 284 trained cell-group period reduced the church to almost nothing until Latvia leaders were acknowledged and the first group of 12 regained its independence in 1992. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1096

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The Russia Initiative, which included Russia, Methodist entities has formed partnerships with various Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus, began in the winter of mission initiatives through the “In Mission Together” 1991–1992. It is the oldest and most mature of the initia- program. A team of coordinators organizes periodic con- tives, having some 125 congregations with indigenous sultations and training events that include participation pastors, a theological seminary in Moscow, and a genera- from both supporters and mission initiative members. tion of young adults raised within the church. Today this church has formed the Eurasia United Methodist Church The 400 Fund was launched in 2008 with an initial that also encompasses congregations in Kazakhstan, pledge of up to $400,000 ($1,000 for each new congre- Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. Eurasia UMC has devel- gation) from Atlanta businesswoman Mary Watson. oped a roadmap to become self-sufficient by 2015. Additional donors have contributed to the fund since 2008, making it possible to also hold lay training events 2. In Mission Together and the 400 Fund within the mission initiative areas. Lay empowerment The mission initiatives of the General Board of has proven to be a most effective method for developing Global Ministries inspire a passionate response from communities of faith. local churches, conferences, and mission volunteers. The call of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) In Mission Together emphasizes the need for an has led many to give generously toward the establish- open and balanced approach to partnership—one that ment of new churches and outreach ministries across a respects and utilizes the gifts of all involved and growing United Methodist connection. addresses issues of dependency. By requiring a “50/50 Partner Church Covenant,” Global Ministries is actively A vital network of US and some European United fostering mutuality and accountability among partners.

C. Engaging in Ministry with the Poor in forging strategies for poverty alleviation. Global Ministries works to overcome the causes of poverty Ministry with the poor reaches far back into the church’s heritage as a major commitment of John through political and economic advocacy and action. Wesley. The emphasis is on “with,” not ministry “to” or This work begins by listening to and including those “for” the poor. The approach involves all persons in the affected by poverty as valued members of our world- life of faith in Jesus Christ and engages the marginalized wide community. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1097

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1. Response to Poverty water filtration units that can be locally manufactured and marketed to the local population. Volunteers will Global Ministries and various partners were chosen conduct trainings on the usage and importance of safe and have begun substantial work on six models to drinking water. Cisterns or borehole wells will also be respond to poverty in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and dug in local communities in the future. the United States. Each of the projects is in a different phase of implementation. Goals for the multiyear integrated program include improved food security and nutrition through sustain- a. “Move the Mountains” Circles©: A number of able agricultural techniques; better health through annual conferences, including the Western North appropriate water and sanitation systems; and improved Carolina Conference, and local United Methodist nutrition, livelihood, and health of the trainees’ families churches have started “Move the Mountain” Circles© and the communities with which they work. sites. Circles© works on a local level to enable families with low incomes to improve their situations through c. Philippines, Laiban Area: Working with the involvement with a community-engaged model. Dumagat indigenous people in the Philippines means understanding the challenges they face. Dumagat chil- These sites provide separate trainings for low- dren trek long distances on treacherous mountainside income families and for allies in the community to build paths to go to schools that may or may not have text- sustainable bridges of social capital. In a community- books, supplies, or qualified teachers. In some of the vil- based effort to ensure their success, families are paired lages, people who fall ill may be sent downriver via with at least two allies who share nonfinancial support, inner tube to reach the road that will take them to the providing tools for breaking the cycle of poverty. nearest clinic. For some 30 years, talk of a dam being built that would flood and displace several Dumagat vil- Global Ministries has provided grants to “Move the lages has overshadowed any steps to improve their Mountains” Circles©, including a grant to fund the plight. training of 10 United Methodists who are now certified Circles© trainers and available to support annual con- The Dumagat people and Harris Memorial College, ferences and churches that wish to start a “Move the a Methodist College in the Philippines, have partnered Mountain” Circles© site in their locale. In addition, with Global Ministries, including UMCOR, to develop a Global Ministries has funded a missionary assigned to comprehensive program that addresses education, sus- work with the Circles© program in Wadesboro, North tainable agriculture, community-based health, and Carolina. livelihood projects. Harris Memorial has worked with the Dumagat people for a number of years and built b. Kamina, Democratic Republic of the Congo trusted relationships with them through its community (DR Congo): The Kamina ministry in DR Congo uses outreach program headed by Deaconess Angie an integrated development model of mission work for Broncano. sustainable results. This approach strategically links UMCOR programs of health, agriculture and nutrition, One of the first programs to be implemented will and water and sanitation, with NGO programs, identify- improve Dumagat children’s access to education. In col- ing community health workers through the Kamina laboration with the Department of Education, an alter- Health Center community volunteer initiative. native learning system is being implemented in the area. Dumagats will be trained as local teachers. Better access The agriculture phase is composed of training 30 to education will be a primary way for the Dumagat peo- community health workers or family members in inte- ple to improve their circumstances and give back to their grated-crop and pest-management practices. The own communities well into the future. trainees have also organized themselves to start a group farm. They are trained in better crop cultivation and d. Honduras, Mariposa Project in Talanga: This learn about dry-season vegetable gardening, using sus- relatively new initiative will expand and integrate exist- tainable and economically viable methods. In addition, ing local ministries. A partnership with the United the trainees will learn the benefits of growing soybeans Methodist Mission in Honduras, this project has a goal and Moringa trees to improve nutrition. Finally, the to empower single mothers through education; voca- community health workers will be trained in household tional and trade training; health services; and cultural, 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1098

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community, and economic development. The local com- the Poor” were published, following many months of munity will implement the project with support from mis- dialogue and work with an interagency task force. Led sion staff and with assistance from existing governmental by Global Ministries, each of the 13 general agencies institutions. Church members will be heavily involved was actively engaged in this project, including several at in the Mariposa Project with missionary oversight. the highest executive level. Out of this effort came the With* campaign. e. Ministry with the Roma (“Gypsies”): Bishop Patrick Streiff has identified ministry with the Roma as Developed in partnership with the Ministry with the the priority ministry-with-the-poor focus within the Poor task force, a new website, ministryWith.org, pro- Central and Southern European Central Conference. vides downloadable multimedia resources, including Global Ministries participated in a two-day consultation fact sheets, videos, and podcasts. Worship and Bible in Budapest in February 2011, organized and led by the study resources designed to inspire, challenge, and bishop and his staff, among United Methodist Church mobilize offer music, Bible reflections, discussion ques- pastors and district superintendents from Hungary, tions, and prayers. The Ubuntu Day of Service Tool Kit, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Macedonia, and the Czech originally developed by the Women’s Division, is a user- Republic. Governmental officials, scholars, and NGOs friendly and effective tool for sensitivity training with that are engaged with the Roma also participated. volunteers. Immediately prior to the consultation, Global Ministries and Connexio were escorted on a three-day visitation In addition to being a portal for accessing informa- with Roma churches and communities in Eastern tion, best practices, and resources, the With* website Slovakia and Hungary by the bishop’s staff and local encourages connections and mobilization. It builds Methodist clergy. The bishop and his staff are in con- momentum and mobilizes people to be active disciples— versation with Global Ministries about next steps in developing community-led ministries and enhancing developing a collaborative initiative on ministry with the existing ministries with new partnerships. Volunteer and poor with the Roma community. Education and training advocacy opportunities, mission videos, prayer requests, of indigenous Roma people is likely to be a priority and upcoming events are shared in a way that encour- focus of this new pilot project. ages community and conversation. Reflections on mission and ministry with the poor are posted by church f. Immigration and Global Migration: Building leaders, and readers are invited to engage in conversation on the work of the Global Ministries Immigration Task by adding their comments and submitting resources. Force and the United Methodist Task Force on Immigration, which is chaired by Bishop Minerva 3. Ubuntu Explorer Journeys Carcaño, Global Ministries is supporting local churches Ubuntu is an African word and proverb meaning “I and other groups in the United States, who are working am human because you are human.” Ubuntu Explorer to understand and counter the economic, family, and Journeys are short-term mission-service opportunities human rights impact of current US immigration policies for United Methodist Women members to interact with that emerge from and contribute to conditions of poverty the world through mission partners, to address social and human suffering. issues and discover new ways of working together, supporting one another, and growing spiritually. Ubuntu Global Ministries is examining how a wide range of Explorers expand their understanding of issues that existing programs within the agency relate to global impact the world and their community through mutual migration; analyzing US immigration concerns within a learning with women from other cultures. Each Ubuntu global context; and exploring root causes of migration. Journey is a way for women to learn where the United Grants from Global Ministries’ Restorative Justice Methodist Women’s Mission Giving goes, which sup- Program are being used to support partner organizations ports more than 200 programs in 75 countries. Ubuntu seeking to engage United Methodists in addressing Journeys have taken place in Zimbabwe, Cambodia, restorative-justice concerns related to detention and Hong Kong/China, Côte d’Ivoire, and Bolivia, among deportation. other countries. 2. With* Campaign 4. National Mission Institutions In January 2011, a set of United Methodist United Methodist Women members are engaged in “Guiding Principles and Foundations on Ministry with mission on a daily basis through their prayers, volunteer 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1099

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support, and Mission Giving. Their faith and hope is UMCOR Health receives and reviews grant resulting in action on behalf of and with women, chil- applications and recommends recipients to the dren, and youth in local communities through the work UMGAF executive committee. UMCOR Health then of National Mission Institutions. Nearly 100 National Mission Institutions in the United States supported by provides monitoring and evaluation for funded pro- United Methodist Women’s giving are empowering jects by reviewing reports and making site visits. women, caring for children, educating and building In October 2010, the fund launched a new youth, looking after the neglected, advocating for social campaign, 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free World, to justice issues, creating economic opportunities, and encourage nominal giving of $20 or more to make changing neighborhoods. National Mission Institutions include community centers, schools, colleges, health- a tangible difference in the lives of those with or care facilities, and women’s residences that offer a vari- affected by HIV/AIDS. ety of services. An annual conference may use 25 percent of D. Improving Health Globally the funds raised within it for local or global AIDS projects it selects. 1. UMCOR Health IMAGINE NO MALARIA UMCOR Health engages in capacity-building programs in universities and hospitals in Africa. During the magine No Malaria (INM), represents an inter- quadrennium, it established a Medical Laboratory section of The UMC’s Global Health Initiative Technician course at Africa University, Zimbabwe, and partnered with Dental Care to the World to start a two- Iand Ministry with the Poor areas of focus. The year Dental Nurse Practitioner course at Ganta Hospital aim of INM is twofold: to raise funds to combat in Liberia. malaria and other diseases of poverty in Africa through 2015—reflecting priority areas outlined in In Latin America, UMCOR Health developed a clinic modeled after the African Hospital Revitalization the United Nations Millennium Development project. It provided funding for the construction, equip- Goals—and to build the capacity and resource ment, and administration of the Clinton Rabb Health base of Methodist health systems in Africa. Post in Brisas del Mar, Colombia, for three years. UMCOR is leading the INM effort in Africa, Global Ministries also provided funds related to the con- working with UMC central conferences to develop struction of the clinic and a simple residence for the staff doctor. The clinic serves about 3,000 people, who other- health boards, bodies of governance, and over- wise would travel 14 miles over poor roads for routine sight systems in each country. The health boards and emergency care. The remote area was terrorized for develop malaria-control project proposals and years by paramilitary bands. drive the responsible use of INM funds. In addition to mosquito-net distributions, previously supported GLOBAL AIDS FUND through the Nothing But Nets campaign, INM grantees train community health educators (3,500 he 2004 General Conference created and the were trained as of mid-2011); purchase lifesaving 2008 General Conference continued the drugs; strengthen hospital and clinic infrastructure; T United Methodist Global AIDS Fund (UMGAF) support indoor residual spraying; and address to support programs offering HIV/AIDS education, water and sanitation issues at the community level. prevention, treatment, and care services in the United Between INM’s launch in April 2009 and mid- States and around the world. An UMGAF Committee 2011, UMCOR partnered with central conferences was set up to oversee the promotion, use, supervision, to distribute more than 3.2 million insecticide- and distribution of the fund. As of mid-2011, more treated mosquito nets in four countries. In Sierra than $3 million has been raised, with grants distrib- Leone, which saw the largest INM distribution of uted to 185 projects in 37 countries. nets, children under the age of five also received 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1100

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polio vaccines, vitamin A, and deworming medi- The Zimbabwe field office was opened in 2009 and the cines. In August 2011, an INM workshop at Africa Haiti field office reopened in 2010 (see Disaster Relief, page 1101). UMCOR NGO in 2011 laid plans for a field University, Zimbabwe, trained and solicited feed- office in the new nation of South Sudan (see Disaster back from every UMC conference in Africa on the Relief, page 1102). technical expectations for INM programs and the 3. Anti-Human Trafficking proposal process; the INM grant process was On Human Trafficking Awareness Day in January launched in October 2011. 2011, the United Methodist Women website was turned The United Methodist Church, as part of into an interactive, informational slideshow dedicated to Imagine No Malaria, is the first faith-based organi- raising awareness of human trafficking. The United zation to partner with the Global Fund to Fight Methodist Women Twitter and Facebook accounts also dedicated the day to sharing information on human traf- AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. Global Ministries ficking, thus garnering web coverage from other United affirms the importance of community and faith- Methodist agencies, an increase of 700 active users on based health organizations and advocates for their our Facebook page, and 30 new Twitter followers. role in the fight against AIDS, malaria, and tuber- UMCOR’s anti-trafficking program in Armenia is culosis—particularly as it affects mother-and-child the only program in that country that provides long- mortality rates. Churches exist in the smallest, term, comprehensive reintegration services to women, most remote villages with no roads or electricity. children, and men who have experienced human traf- They have presence and influence. Global ficking, regardless of whether they cooperate with law Ministries is committed to activating these commu- enforcement. Program staff at the shelter provide medical and psychosocial care, legal assistance, and voca- nities to support the Global Fund and national tional-skills training. In this way, survivors receive the efforts to fight the diseases of poverty. support they need to keep them from falling prey to traf- fickers again.

United Methodist Women helped UMCOR launch 2. Integrated Global Development the Not Without Hope campaign in support of the Armenia shelter. The UMCOR-United Methodist Through its nongovernmental field offices in eight Women partnership provides protection and an array of countries, UMCOR NGO provided ongoing program- services to help rehabilitate and reintegrate people ming in community-based health and hygiene, water affected by trafficking into society. and sanitation, nutrition and food security, construction and equipment of schools, anti-human trafficking, and 4. I Believe You Documentary emergency response, among others. In this quadren- As a part of United Methodist Women’s work to nium, UMCOR NGO expanded its food security pro- raise awareness in local congregations about the issue of gramming by carrying out large-scale distributions of domestic violence, United Methodist Women joined maize meal in Zimbabwe; establishing agricultural with Presbyterian Women, the Evangelical Church in cooperatives in Armenia; and providing agriculture America, the New York Board of Rabbis, and the training, seeds, and mills in DR Congo. It brought assis- Islamic Society of North America to produce the hour- tance to refugees and internally displaced persons in DR long interfaith documentary, I Believe You: Faiths’ Congo, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Sudan in Response to Intimate Partner Violence. I Believe You response to natural and human-caused emergencies. gives voice to the stories of survivors, making clear the UMCOR NGO assisted returning refugees in assistance faith groups can provide and offering encour- Afghanistan by cleaning miles of irrigation tunnels and agement and direction for women still trapped in abu- building schools, shelters, and health clinics. Medicine sive relationships. It explores the stories of women who distribution programs in Georgia and Armenia benefited have experienced abuse and the programs that faith hundreds of thousands of recipients. groups have created to address their needs. The docu- Two UMCOR field offices—Indonesia and mentary aired on ABC television network affiliates from Azerbaijan—completed their missions in this period. January to March 2011 and features interviews with 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1101

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Women’s Division Deputy General Secretary Harriett magnitude with more than 1 million people displaced Jane Olson. and hundreds of thousands of lives lost. By mid-2011, United Methodists had raised more than $45 million for III. DISASTER RELIEF the Haiti Emergency Advance and supplied hundreds of thousands of UMCOR health and other relief-supply A. United States kits. UMCOR put funds to immediate use via grants, pilot projects, and the establishment of an UMCOR When disaster strikes, local churches are there to NGO field office in Port-au-Prince. A three-year Haiti provide the first response to their own communities. Response Plan was developed by United Methodist This basic understanding—that disaster response is Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM) and the Mission local—forms the foundation for UMCOR’s US disaster Volunteers office of Global Ministries, working with training and response. First and foremost, UMCOR is a UMCOR, in coordination with L’Eglise Methodiste resource for the local response, partnering with annual d’Haiti (EMH). conferences to offer appropriate support and as a means of raising support across the church. The Rev. James L. Gulley was designated as a Global Ministries and UMCOR coordinator acting as a UMCOR US Disaster Response funds an average strategic connection among EMH, UMCOR Haiti, of 28 emergency grants each year in response to events UMVIM, and UMCOR’s international disaster-response that, over the quadrennium, included Deep Water 2011, unit. He also coordinates with Methodist-related part- multiple disasters of historic magnitude that struck ners, including the United Church of Canada, The across the United States. In the space of 10 weeks, Methodist Church of Great Britain, and other churches UMCOR issued 23 grants to 16 annual conferences in and partnership groups to streamline relief efforts. response to tornadoes, flooding, severe storms, and wildfires. UMCOR’s Relief-Supply Network, estab- The Haiti response remained in the emergency lished in 2010, shipped more than 10,200 cleaning phase for an entire year. Important challenges to the buckets to affected areas. UMCOR’s US Disaster relief task included the significant loss of Haitian gov- Response personnel deployed to affected areas in Joplin, ernment personnel for decision making; rubble and Missouri; Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and Raleigh, North land-tenure issues; political instability; competition for Carolina, among others, in support of annual confer- human resources among thousands of NGOs in Haiti; ences and communities. UMCOR personnel provided and a cholera epidemic, among others. training in early response, spiritual and emotional care, and case management, as well as on-the-ground support UMCOR’s strategy in Haiti is to build and leverage for conference disaster-response teams. partnerships and networks to provide both immediate relief and long-term recovery, and to work with faith- During the quadrennium, UMCOR’s US Disaster based organizations and secular relief and development Response program continued its long-term recovery partners. Projects are under way in the fields of health efforts after hurricanes Katrina and Rita (2005), distrib- and health systems; education and training; agriculture, uting the final $25 million of a total $66.3 million con- microcredit, and livelihoods; construction and recon- tributed for those emergencies. UMCOR responded struction of homes, schools, and hospitals; nutrition and with personnel and funding (nearly $2 million) after food security; support for children, youth, and young hurricanes Gustav and Ike in 2008. adults; and in the United States, support for Haitian immigrants, refugees, and medical evacuees. Funding was a challenge to UMCOR’s response to the recent storms. After hurricanes Gustav and Ike in These efforts are optimized via roundtables with 2008, weather conditions in the United States were rel- partners for purposes of envisioning, evaluating, and atively mild and donor contributions were directed more coordinating responses, and via forums with experts in toward international disasters. This created a funding particular fields who contribute to the elaboration of challenge to UMCOR’s response to the 2011 storms. innovative model projects. They are informed by criteria B. Haiti that include helping Haiti “build back better,” supporting the local economy, listening to needs, determining The January 2010 earthquake in Haiti caused sustainability of projects, and being prepared to remain destruction and loss of life disproportionate to its 7.0 in Haiti for the long term. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1102

1102 DCA Advance Edition C. Japan Committee founded after the quake; and played a key role in the drafting and implementation of an ACT In March 2011, an unprecedented triple disaster— appeal for funds. United Methodists raised $705,515 for earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear contamination at a the Chile Emergency Advance, which is being used to power plant—struck Japan. The Global Ministries mis- help the most vulnerable people affected to repair or sional network was important in the United Methodist response working through missionaries serving in rebuild homes, provide transitional shelters, and offer Japan, relief and development through UMCOR, and the emotional support to those dealing with trauma. partnership with the Women’s Division-related Wesley F. Philippines Center and the Asia Rural Institute, a long-time partner and scholarship recipient of Global Ministries. UMCOR disaster-response training was also key to the Philippines Annual Conference’s ability to respond UMCOR’s emergency response funded provisions to typhoons Ketsana and Parma. UMCOR held the of drinking water, food, clothing, and medical care; pro- training and opened a disaster-response office near vided support for urgent reconstruction needs; and Manila in July 2009; the typhoons struck in September. cleared debris and repaired damage from homes Just over a year later, Typhoon Megi hit the Philippines, impacted by the tsunamis. and the office responded again. UMCOR Philippines also provides a ministry of presence, serves as a com- By June 2011, donors had given $9 million to the munications hub among United Methodist conferences Japan Emergency Advance. A consortium of Christian within the Philippines, and with the US, and offers an churches and organizations in Japan emerged at the urg- on-site storage facility for material goods and relief ing of participants at an ecumenical Solidarity Meeting, supplies. which included Global Ministries. The consortium now serves as a channel to coordinate relief efforts and fund- G. Sudan ing from faith-based organizations. UMCOR is working UMCOR opened the doors of its NGO field office with the consortium and with secular partners, and by in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum in February 2005, mid-2011 was preparing to elaborate a relief and recov- about a month after the government in the North and ery strategy. rebels in the South formally ended 20 years of hostilities D. Pakistan and signed the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005. The agreement made provision for a referendum In July 2010, Pakistan faced its worst flooding in 80 on independence for the South, and the vote was taken years. The monsoon season brought torrential rains and in January 2011. More than 98 percent of Southern provoked flash floods in all provinces. Some 20 million Sudanese chose independence, which went into effect in people were affected, a total greater than all those July 2011. affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2005 Pakistan earthquake, and the 2010 Haiti earthquake Priority needs and opportunities in South Sudan combined. UMCOR provided relief aid through partners were considered at a roundtable meeting organized by Norwegian Church Aid/Diocese of Peshawar, Muslim Global Minsitries in August 2011, attended by major Aid, and GlobalMedic. The bulk of UMCOR funding United Methodist mission partners in the area, and went to Church World Service to provide health services, livelihood-recovery programs, and food security hosted by the East Africa Annual Conference. programs. Participants included leaders of the Sudanese UMC, the Holston Conference, Ginghamsburg UMC in Ohio, E. Chile Global Ministries, UMCOR, Women’s Division, and An 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Chile in United Methodist Volunteers in Mission. February 2010. Thanks to UMCOR disaster-response training four months earlier, Iglesia Metodista de Chile UMCOR is planning to open a field office in Juba, (IMECH) responded immediately. IMECH said the the capital of the new country, while still maintaining its training was “fundamental” to its ability to respond. As office in Khartoum, its work in Darfur, and its programs a result, it had formed its own disaster-response arm, in the towns of Aweil and Yei in South Sudan. Likewise, which was credentialed by the Chilean government; Global Ministries is partnering to plant churches and became a leader in the Ecumenical Emergency send missionaries to the new nation. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1103

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Through the strategic planning process and other God through Jesus Christ makes us acceptable to forums, Global Ministries is taking measured steps God no matter how far off we have wandered, and God toward greater awareness of a need for deepening and in the Holy Spirit sustains us when we accept God’s expanding mission confidence. The mission initiatives acceptance. Living into a flexible model of facilitating are cause for celebration and there are dozens of new mission, Global Ministries is boldly stepping out to be a places where United Methodist initiatives can be part of global mission agency for a global church based on transformation. Methodism has a clear, confident mes- grace and trusting in God’s call. sage: God loves us, a love expressed in creation. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1104

1104 DCA Advance Edition Report of the Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence

I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that the death and destruction in its wake and asked the ques- which was driven away, and will bind up that which tion: “Where is the church and what is its role in drugs was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick. and drug-related violence?” That year the Council of (Ezekiel 34:16, KJV) Bishops led the denomination in its response to the crisis and launched the Bishops’ Initiative on Drugs and Bearing witness to God’s love and grace, the United Drug Violence. Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) is a global health response In response to the Council of Bishops’ findings, the to alcohol and chemical abuse and dependency and its 1992 General Conference created the Special Program related violence. Working through its Interagency and on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) Standing Committee Task Force SPSARV prepares local to respond “in a cooperative effort” to the drug crisis on church leadership—clergy, lay leaders, and church pro- a national and international level. During its first quad- fessionals—to be informed and compassionate agents of rennium, SPSARV worked with United Methodist transformation for all God’s children, addicts/alcoholics, leadership in the US and Europe and was reaffirmed at and loved ones, who experience the brokenness of the the 1996 General Conference, making this ministry an disease of addiction. ongoing initiative of the denomination.

SPSARV provides grants, models, churchwide edu- To date, outreach efforts to deliver key resources to cation experiences, public policy advocacy tools, skills- United Methodists and ecumenical partners have signif- based training opportunities, and networking resources icantly expanded throughout the US, Europe, and throughout the global connection that: Africa. SPSARV continues to make its programming available throughout the United Methodist connectional • diminish the stigma associated with the disease of system. addiction; The 2009-2012 Quadrennium • foster ministry responses of prevention, interven- Operating from its five program components of tion, treatment, recovery, and/or public policy; grants, replication of models, education, advocacy, and • nurture networks of committed United Metho- training, SPSARV has deepened the level of understand- dists engaged in addiction ministry; and ing of the disease of addiction. The SPSARV ministry • celebrate wholeness and recovery from brokenness. team has offered tools for ministry responses, especially within congregations and conferences, and aimed to SPSARV envisions a world where the brokenness effect systemic change by facilitating increased engage- of the disease of addiction is replaced with God’s prom- ment in public policy responses. ise of hope, healing, health, and wholeness. Grants Background SPSARV provided more than 30 grants totaling Since the 18th century, The United Methodist more than $340,000 to United Methodists, ecumenical Church and its predecessor denominations have had a organizations, and other partners in the US, Europe, and long legacy of healing and health ministries, champi- Africa for work related to prevention, intervention, treat- oning such efforts as addressing alcohol and other drug ment, and recovery. Through the grants program, issues. As early as the 1916 General Conference, The SPSARV fostered the development of new and strength- Methodist Episcopal Church created the Board of ened existing local church ministry responses, serving Temperance, Prohibition, and Public Morals to be a the needs of parishioners and the community. social witness and lead advocacy efforts against the excessive use of alcohol and other drugs. In 1990, in Models continuation of its stalwart witness on this public health SPSARV supported the launch of two ministry epidemic, the episcopacy of The United Methodist models including the Better Community Development, Church recognized the pervasiveness of addiction and Inc., (BCD) Empowerment Center congregational treat- 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1105

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ment ministry and the replication of the Oklahoma within The United Methodist Church and beyond to use Chemical Dependency School (OCDS), an intensive 12- as they view the film. day education experience for clergy and lay leadership. BCD, Inc., will mentor congregations within the con- Lastly, SPSARV produced a new Lenten study nection that aim to support and offer treatment ministry. resource for small groups drawing on the universal OCDS has been adapted for use in the Southeastern themes of hope, healing, health, and wholeness. The Jurisdiction in the United States, in Europe, and in resource was developed through an open call to the gen- Africa. Graduates of these new programs total almost eral church for entries from United Methodists across 100. In addition, SPSARV continued its expansion of the denomination. Members of the Council of Bishops the Peer Counseling Model. The model has been lent their leadership to the development of this publica- launched in all 12 episcopal areas in Africa, reaching tion, with four bishops offering introductions to a com- more than 1,000 young people across the continent. mon theme represented in this tool. The small group Leadership in Europe and the United States also plans to study is meant to offer a discussion point that helps all adapt and use this resource, which helps young people understand the uniqueness of addiction and its impact make healthy lifestyle choices and become positive role on individuals and the commonalities of all God’s chil- models for their peers. dren seeking wholeness during the Lenten season. Education Advocacy Through five education and marketing endeavors Through four congregational trainings, SPSARV SPSARV intensified its efforts to help foster an under- partnered with the General Board of Church and Society standing of the disease of addiction and its impact on the and Faith Partners, Inc., to offer clergy and lay leader- addict/alcoholic and his or her family. SPSARV broad- ship in three annual conferences training on the contin- ened its annual awareness campaign in September by uum of mercy to justice ministry responses. These launching a global education initiative. The annual ini- trainings provided participants in the Western, tiative includes an information series hosted on the Southeastern, and Northeastern Jurisdictions with more General Board of Global Ministries website and other information on the importance of and Christ’s call to the interested media sites, distribution of a resource to con- church to be advocates for systemic change. ference media centers for ongoing use by clergy and Training and Networking laity within annual conferences, and special recognition efforts to lift up United Methodists who work with SPSARV has conducted training and networking addiction ministries. opportunities across the global connection, providing conference and seminar organizing assistance and SPSARV launched an online reading circle—the plenary and workshop leadership. In addition, SPSARV Hope, Healing, and Health Circle—which features a provided clergy and laity with scholarships to select skills- reading selection each quarter for those interested in based trainings being offered through other organizations. learning more about addiction responses. Through the use of online capabilities, SPSARV provides an oppor- In the US SPSARV served nearly 400 clergy and tunity for reading circle members to post their reflec- laity across all five jurisdictions. Through members of tions to the book selections online. the African Task Force leadership team, SPSARV reached more than 2,500 clergy, laity, women, seminar- SPSARV also released a new publication, its Hope, ians, and young people representing all 12 of the epis- Healing, and Health e-newsletter, keeping those inter- copal areas in Africa. In Europe, the SPSARV- ested in this ministry updated on SPSARV activities and sponsored European Board launched the first replication other general church efforts. of the Oklahoma Chemical Dependency School outside of the US, serving 23 participants including one district SPSARV teamed up with the Lost And Found In superintendent as a day-visitor. America (LAFIA) organization to make available its poignant documentary, “Lost In Woonsocket.” The SPSARV collaborated with other United Methodist documentary captures the lives of two men and their entities, including: journeys to recovery. In addition to providing support for this film to be seen in screenings across the US, • General Board of Church and Society—offering SPSARV created a companion Bible study for those congregational training; 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1106

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• The Mount Sequoyah Retreat Center in membership. Such changes in the body led to visioning Arkansas—training South Central Jurisdiction sessions and a plan for increased services for con- members in family systems; stituencies throughout Europe. • Oklahoma Conference’s Chemical Dependency Youth/Young Adult Networks School—providing a sound educational experience on addiction and the role of the church in SPSARV collaborated with Devozine staff at the serving individuals and their families; and General Board of Discipleship to release a compilation • United Methodist racial/ethnic plans and cau- of existing substance abuse-related devotionals, a cuses—tailoring resources for specific needs. resource for young people dealing with addiction. The publication entitled, “HadEnough,” captured previously Beyond The United Methodist Church, SPSARV and newly submitted testimonials and reflections by worked with the National Association for the Children young people. The devotional is available in a down- of Alcoholics (NACoA) and Lost And Found In America loadable format for young people, youth leaders, and (LAFIA). Through partnership with both organizations, parents. SPSARV provided a full picture of the impact of addic- Administration tion on individuals, families, and the community at large. NACoA offered training in family systems and During the quadrennium, the SPSARV staffing pastoral responses, while LAFIA conducted a structure shifted and is now made up of four full-time SPSARV—sponsored national tour of its riveting docu- employees that currently resource more than 75 confer- mentary, “Lost In Woonsocket,” which chronicles the ences in Europe and Africa with planned expansion into lives of two men in their journeys to recovery. other parts of the world. SPSARV has updated all of its education and mar- The SPSARV ministry has grown as its networks keting materials with a targeted effort to ensure its web- have continually evolved with enhanced programming site is more user-friendly and informative. and reinforced infrastructure. African Task Force SPSARV has continually explored opportunities to collaborate with agencies, boards, and churchwide net- The African Task Force (AFT) on Substance Abuse works for campus ministry, advocacy, education of sem- and Related Violence, a central conference network of inarians, new clergy, and local pastors, as well as reach SPSARV, strengthened its infrastructure in order to bet- out to various racial/ethnic and global leadership ter serve the episcopal areas that it represents. ATF throughout the church. developed bylaws and created processes to manage its programming and make available its policy. Recommendations for 2013-2016 Programmatically, ATF expanded its use of the Peer SPSARV, through various offices of its administer- Counseling Model, ensuring that all episcopal areas ing agency, Global Ministries, will uphold recommen- equipped young people with this resource. ATF height- dations of its Interagency and Standing Committee Task ened its education resource offerings to clergy and laity, Force to continue to: drawing from the Oklahoma Chemical Dependency School model. Lastly, ATF initiated plans to create a • Raise awareness on alcohol, other drugs, and treatment response based upon the German-developed related violence concerns with special attention to Comeback model as well as African models. ATF has the health implications of the disease of addiction. lifted up faith-based treatment as a priority for its con- • Equip clergy, laity, and youth/young adults with tinued work. resources for ministry. European Board • Develop United Methodist advocacy leadership to wage effective systemic change campaigns The European Board assisted more than 25 min- around the globe. istries with technical support and seed funding across 10 countries in Europe. Funding assisted with prevention, Specific objectives include: intervention, treatment, and recovery support programs. There was an emphasis on education on the disease of • Provide at least 30 grants to support the develop- addiction and helping young people make wise choices. ment and/or strengthening of ministry for addic- The board also experienced change in leadership and its tion prevention, intervention, treatment, recovery 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1107

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support, and/or public policy with emphasis on • Provide peer group formation, print and web congregational ministerial responses. resources for young people on alcohol and other • Replicate at least two new addiction response drugs that enable advocacy for one’s self, family, models across the church with outreach globally and peers. across conferences in the United States, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. 2012 Actions/Recommendations • Increase the visibility of alcohol, other drugs, and That the SPSARV-related Interagency and Standing related violence concerns, ministry responses, and Committee Task Force be renamed to the United understanding of public health epidemic through Methodist Global Council on Drug and Alcohol an education strategy at all levels of the church— Addiction (UMGCDAA) to more accurately reflect the episcopacy, conference, district, and local entities represented on this leadership body. In addition, church—utilizing various education mediums. that it be mandated that each quadrennium, SPSARV • Provide at least three opportunities for the global church to engage in grassroots public policy to invites, in accordance with the original churchwide respond to the global marketing/advertisement approach that the 1992 General Conference intended, and sale of alcohol and tobacco in ways that pro- each church agency and/or board, representatives that tect those who are most vulnerable. geographically reflect the constituents served, and other • Extend networking and training opportunities for select networks to join the leadership team. holistic ministry responses to at least 1,000 laity, 500 clergy, and 200 church professionals That SPSARV be reaffirmed and provided throughout the global connection. resources for the 2013-2016 quadrennium. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1108

1108 DCA Advance Edition Report on Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing Ministries

The United Methodist Committee on Deaf and response, and the committee made contact with the deaf Hard of Hearing Ministries (DHM) works in ministry community in Port-au-Prince. with deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind people both locally and globally. Through gifts from The DHM maintains a website (www.umcdhm.org) Advance and other funds, projects were supported dur- with resources for our target groups as well as churches ing the quadrennium in the US (Texas, Arkansas, who want to initiate ministries with our population. DHM maintains its status as an Advance project, which Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania) and globally helps provide seed money for growing ministries. (South Korea, Honduras, Haiti, Mexico, Sri Lanka, and India). Partial funds were provided for a deaf-blind Our second global deaf mission conference was camp, for teen camps for deaf students, and for persons held in Seoul, South Korea, with representatives from seeking to engage in ministry through certification and nine countries and 29 participants from the United disaster response training. States. A third global conference is being planned for Nairobi, Kenya, in 2013 in cooperation with the The committee began working with the Older Adult Methodist Church of Kenya and Pastor Margaret Division and the United Methodist Task Force on Mukami, president of the World Federation of Deaf Disability Ministries. A priority was set for Haiti Methodists. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1109

Global Ministries 1109 Report on Pacific Islanders Comprehensive Plan for Ministry Study

Preamble Comprehensive Plan for Pacific Islander United Methodism represents the first comprehensive plan sub- It is with utmost humility, respect, and gratitude mitted to the General Conference of The United that Pacific Islander United Methodists cross the thresh- Methodist Church seeking The United Methodist old of the General Conference of The United Methodist Church’s affirmation and support of Pacific Islander Church as partners in the work of making disciples of United Methodists’ efforts to strengthen their growing Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We ministries and discipleship of Jesus Christ in the United come responding to the call of the Great Commission States and globally. “to go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19-20) and recognizing that “local churches provide Assets the most significant arena through which disciple- According to the 2010 US Census data, at least 1.1 making occurs” (The Book of Discipline of The United million Pacific Islanders live in the United States. Many Methodist Church, 2008, p. 87). We come with the of them have been here for approximately four decades innate gifts and graces that have shaped and molded a with others arriving as recent immigrants. Pacific holistic culture for thousands of years. Those same gifts and graces have carried us over the oceans and enabled Islanders represent a rapidly growing population with us to practice and proclaim the love of the risen Lord in diverse histories, cultures, languages, and demographic our new home, the United States, and throughout the profiles, including political associations to the US gov- world. And though the universal challenges that define ernment. Native Hawaiians are descendants of the the experience of immigrants in a new land plague our indigenous peoples of the state of Hawaii, but as US cit- existence, we have joyfully endured. It is with joy that izens they have full access to the privileges and entitle- we offer the following report to General Conference and ment programs associated with being a US citizen. In invite you to further enable our journey through partner- contrast, other Pacific Islanders are represented by the ing with us to better equip the Pacific Island United migrants from US territories—American Samoa, Guam, Methodist community to further the work of making dis- Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and ciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the Freely Associated States—Federated States of world. Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Republic of Palau, as well as immigrants from inde- Background and Mandate pendent Pacific Island countries—Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, In 2008, the General Conference of The United Tokelau, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Methodist Church responded to a petition from the and Papua New Guinea. Pacific Islanders born in the Pacific Island United Methodist community with a vote United States are full citizens and US migrants of the to adopt The Pacific Islanders Comprehensive Plan for Pacific Territories are able to travel freely into the coun- Ministry Study (Study), designating the General try and often are employed in the United States without Secretaries Table to act on the following mandate: the requirement of a work permit. Immigrants from independent Pacific Island nations face the same chal- The study will (1) research and study the needs in lenges and regulations facing all foreign residents enter- Pacific Island communities; (2) develop recommen- ing the United States, both in terms of length of stay and dations to address these needs; and (3) establish pri- purpose of the visit. orities on the funding of programs that would begin to develop ministries in the communities that would The Pacific Island culture and way of life are the reach Pacific Islander Americans. These findings very elements that fuel the growth of Pacific Islander would be presented as recommendations to the United Methodism. Methodism in the Pacific Islands 2012 General Conference. dates back to 1822 when the Methodist Church of Australia sent its first missionaries to Tonga. Methodism Funding and administrative oversight for the Study grew in the Pacific Islands because, from its earliest leading to final preparation of a ministry plan was days, Tongans themselves shared in the evangelization assigned to the General Board of Global Ministries. The of not only Tonga but also of other islands in the region. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1110

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The work of evangelization continues today, as Pacific of the known facts about Pacific Island culture is that the Islanders find themselves in new settings and seek to younger generation is tied to the older generation make their faith experience relevant and applicable to through a system of mutual obligation. Membership in life in a new country and culture. This challenge has not any faith community is a family affair that binds not hindered the growth of Pacific Island ministries in the only the parent but every member of the family, result- United States. In fact Pacific Islanders have embraced ing in younger members in the pews. The fact is that United Methodism with fervor and passion and Pacific Pacific Island young people are in the church and that is Islander United Methodism has benefited from the peo- an asset for The United Methodist Church. ple’s sense of loyalty to God that was instilled in their native surroundings and affirmed and reaffirmed in their Pacific Islander United Methodism is an asset for life experiences. Pacific Islanders live a life where cul- The United Methodist Church as it will help to inform ture and faith come together to form a strong and the church’s response to the growing global nature of the resilient foundation that impels them to embrace United denomination. As The United Methodist Church Methodism and all its charge. In these challenging becomes more of a global church it will be important to times, a vibrant faith and resiliency borne out of a affirm the pluralistic and diverse theologies employed proven way of life are needed assets for The United by a diverse membership to give meaning and relevance Methodist Church. to their faith journey. The global membership of The United Methodist Church defies any singular affirma- Pacific Islanders live out their faith consistent with tion of a superior or right theological concept. Rather, in a theology of abundance, and this is an asset for The affirming the diverse interpretations and practices of United Methodist connection as it struggles to meet Christian discipleship, the entire connection is affirmed overwhelming needs with scarce resources. Pacific and strengthened. Islanders are not limited by existing resources. This is Compelling Reason for Creating evidenced by the growth of Pacific Islander United a Comprehensive Plan Methodism in spite of the lack of the denomination’s institutional financial support. Pacific Island ministries The creation of the Comprehensive Plan for Pacific are built on the premise that God will provide the means Islander United Methodism is consistent with The to spread the gospel, and although money is needed it is United Methodist Church living out its mandate of not the basis for building ministries. The system of “making disciples for the transformation of the world.” mutuality that undergirds the Pacific Island culture and The task of making disciples must involve an under- life plays an important role in ensuring that everyone standing of who the intended disciples are. Such an participates in the work of building the ministry. understanding will guide and inform the process of making disciples and will ensure that such a process is For Pacific Islanders, living out of a theology of contextually appropriate, leading to a higher degree of abundance leads to overflowing hospitality. In response effectiveness and success. Thus, the Comprehensive to shrinking resources, the church as an institution is Plan for Pacific Islander United Methodism is the most sometimes seen as being remote and detached. Pacific effective tool to be used for the making of Pacific Island Islanders can provide much needed lessons on hospital- disciples who bring a wealth of assets to the denomina- ity, even in the midst of shrinking resources. It is com- tion for the transformation of the world. monly known that the work of growing church and effective mission and evangelization must be based on In the Pacific Island context, the concept of kinship building effective relationships. Within the Pacific manifested through an interdependent relational order is Islanders communal context relationships are valued central to Pacific Island identity. The migration process, and everyone is affirmed and hence worthy of hospital- rather than destroying this reality, further solidified it. ity. And, it often is the case when the end is affirmed and As Pacific Islanders found themselves dispersed in dif- celebrated, the means always follows. ferent parts of the world, they found ways of maintaining the kinship system, and as mentioned earlier, the Pacific Islander United Methodism will help ensure church became one of the primary means of maintaining the growth of younger membership in The United this system. It is from within this context that Pacific Methodist Church. It is a known fact that membership in Islander United Methodism has flourished, as members The United Methodist Church, particularly in the United find the strength to live out their Christian discipleship States, is aging and declining. As mentioned earlier, one within this system of kinship. The United Methodist 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1111

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Church will benefit by adopting a comprehensive cated that Pacific Islanders should work together as a approach that can harness the strength that is found group in order to be more relevant through participation within Pacific Islander United Methodism. Harnessing in the life of The United Methodist Church and to more this strength will enhance the viability of existing con- effectively share their message with the larger church gregations and ministries, and more importantly, will body. This is not a surprising find, as Pacific Islanders provide a meaningful platform for Pacific Islanders to find strength in each other and in working together. share this gift with the rest of the denomination. This requires a concerted effort to create a tool that is consis- Another compelling reason for the creation of a tent with this important characteristic of Pacific comprehensive plan is grounded in the Wesleyan man- Islanders, as it will enhance the ability of Pacific date to do good and do no harm. Pacific Islander United Islanders to make the most of this resource. The alterna- Methodists are eager to become a vital part of The tive of not having a comprehensive tool or plan will fur- United Methodist Church and connection but find them- ther isolate Pacific Islanders and add significant selves in a web of disorientation due to the differences hardship to their efforts to form viable and effective in church structure, cultural context, language, and other ministries. Navigating the United Methodist structure associated barriers. The United Methodist Church struc- can be a very daunting undertaking, particularly for peo- ture is a quasi-political body that is driven by a variety ple who are new to the system. This will result in the of different forces and influences consistent with the loss of prospective growth in membership and the loss Western social-political paradigm. As first-generation of strength and assets that could have significant influ- immigrants, Pacific Islanders find themselves outside of ence and impact on the denomination. this paradigm, which further entrenches their existence in the margins of The United Methodist Church. Another critical need for the creation of a compre- Creating a comprehensive tool to help bridge this gap is hensive approach is to help respond to the changing simply “do(ing) good” and will lessen the existing demographics within the Pacific Islander United divide between United Methodist structure and Pacific Methodist community. As mentioned above, the kinship Islander United Methodism. Christian hospitality is system remains strong and resilient but there are life more than just opening the door, but requires an inten- cycle changes that will inevitably alter this system. A tional effort to offer compassion and justice. The deep comprehensive approach will live into these changes desire to achieve equity in The United Methodist and find the most appropriate means for creating min- Church is another of the basic findings in data collected istry even in the midst of changes. Annual conferences, by the Study. agencies, and other players in the denomination, by themselves, will be ill-prepared to proactively respond Pacific Islanders’ deep desire to achieve equity in to these, and Pacific Islanders will be left at the mercy The United Methodist Church is a critical need. The of goodwill and chance. An example of a changing journey from where they are now to a future where they demographic that provides a compelling reason to create are valued and feel that they have a space at the table a comprehensive tool is the generational shift. As stated must entail their participation in building mission and earlier, at present, Pacific Islander young people are suf- ministry with guidance and support from the denomina- ficiently yoked to their parent’s generation through the tion. To be effective, Pacific Islanders must take the lead relational system of reciprocity and as a result there is in this dialogue and take the initiative in creating a plat- growing membership of Pacific Islander youths and form where the task of working for equity is done. As a young adults. A comprehensive plan will have the necessary means of self-determination, the comprehen- appropriate resources to proactively respond to the sive plan will allow Pacific Islanders to participate in needs of this sector of the membership and ensure that creating an effective tool for mission and ministry for the denomination meets their needs and ensures their Pacific Islanders. Such a tool will come out of the joint viability and growth. Investing in this process will bear efforts of Pacific Islanders and United Methodist lead- hundredfold fruits, as there are strong growth indicators ers, bringing together the best of the two worlds, and within this sector of the Pacific Islander community. thus empowering all parties involved. Real equity occurs only when Pacific Islanders have had the appro- The need to create a comprehensive tool for min- priate training and guidance, allowing them to have istry was clearly identified by Pacific Islander United fuller participation in the life of the church. The church Methodists as a major need. In the existing data com- is strengthened by the sharing of responsibility and piled by this Study, the majority of the respondents indi- power throughout the connection. This need is further 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1112

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affirmed in the data collected as Pacific Islanders recog- 2. Survey of the Pacific Islander American clergy nize the need to work as full partners within the present and the local church; system through voting and being active in church polity 3. General Board of Global Ministries’ database and discipline. Self-determination and participation on the church communities where Pacific leads to a higher level of accountability and responsibil- Islanders typically live and worship; ity for Pacific Islander United Methodists. 4. Focus group interviews of Pacific Islander American United Methodist youth, women, and Another reason for creating a comprehensive plan men in selected geographical and Pacific Island is to resource The United Methodist Church connection sub-ethnic congregations—Fijian, Samoan, and by providing a unifying approach for doing ministry and Tongan; and mission with Pacific Islanders. At present, Pacific 5. Online survey of United Methodist bishops in Islander United Methodists remain true to structures and selected annual conferences where the largest practices from their home country, and without a com- number of Pacific Islander United Methodist prehensive approach, United Methodist leadership will Church congregations resided and worshiped. be at a disadvantage in trying to meet their needs, which most likely have their basis in a variety of practices from In February of 2010, the Consultation on the the home country. Naturally, the structures and practices Pacific Islander Ministry Plan and the Annual Pacific that Pacific Islander United Methodists have trans- Islander National Caucus of United Methodists (PIN- planted into The United Methodist Church are part of a CUM) meetings at Los Angeles, California, brought complex web of cultural and social context that are not together more than 150 Pacific Island leaders and pro- easily understood by others outside of the culture. The vided the setting to administer some of the above complexity deepens when we are dealing with several research methods. Pacific Islands with particular practices. A unifying approach takes into account these regional differences Status of Pacific Islander Congregations but provides a much needed bond using the organic val- Overall there are 81 Pacific Islander United ues that are true to all people from Oceania. But, per- Methodist churches spread over seven conferences— haps, the most daunting challenge is that this is not Alaska Missionary, California-Pacific, California- merely about existing structures and practices. Nevada, Central Texas, Desert Southwest, Oregon- Ultimately, it is about a way of life and a particular ethos. Idaho, Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountain. The Study’s Hence, the critical need for a tool that is created by those findings showed the percent distribution of the total who understand that particular ethos and way of life in Pacific Islander United Methodist churches across 10 partnership with denominational staff and resources. states with 50 percent of the churches located in Process and Research California followed by 25 percent in Hawaii and less than 10 percent located in the remaining states. As In the first year, a 10-member planning committee expected the result mimics the general distribution of was formed to develop a work plan, framework, identify the Native Hawaiian Pacific Island population and rein- priorities, collect and analyze data, and write the forces the geographical areas where Pacific Islander Comprehensive Plan for Pacific Islander United communities are most concentrated. The Pacific Methodism. Early on in the process, the committee Islander United Methodist congregations are primarily hired Dr. Sela V. Panapasa of the University of Michigan represented by four ethnic groups. Tongans have the Research Institute to provide guidance as a consultant largest percentage of congregations (72 percent) with for the work of committee. The committee convened a Samoan (15 percent) and Fijians (11 percent) lagging total of 10 face-to-face meetings at selected church set- behind and one Chamorro congregation based in Guam. tings and conducted numerous conference calls. A scientific method and approaches were used to assure Recommendations and Proposals broad participation by church members and balanced Leadership Development information. Altogether five primary sources were used to obtain these resources: Leadership development is a critical need within the Pacific Islander United Methodist Church ministry. 1. Demographic profile of the overall Pacific In general, Pacific Islanders have been here in the Islander American population using national- United States for approximately four decades with many level data collected by the US Census Bureau; of them arriving as recent immigrants. In line with that 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1113

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state of recent migration, we have a United Methodist is seen in the lives of first-generation Pacific Islanders. Pacific Island ministry that is young and fluid. As a The church becomes a place of security, where one is result, much of the Pacific Island ministry that exists nurtured spiritually and socially. In most instances, the today is a hybrid of ministry. It is similar to the ministry Pacific Island church is able to meet the spiritual and in the home country and remnants of The United social needs of its adult members, but fails miserably in Methodist Church structure and polity as practiced here meeting the needs of the second generation. According in the United States. There is a wide gap between The to data gathered through the youth focus groups, it was United Methodist Church system as it is practiced and clear that while the first generation has found everything lived out and the Pacific Island United Methodist min- within the four walls of the church, the youth and young istries as they exist here in the United States. This is due people have sometimes wandered outside of the church to the fact that the majority of the leaders, both lay and to find a place to fit in and to find things to fill the deep clergy, were trained in their native country and have need for belonging and affirmation. As second genera- relied primarily on that training for the administration of tion, they are rejected on several levels, beginning with the church. In fact, 78 percent of all practicing Pacific the home where the cultural clash leads the first genera- Islander clergy were trained outside of the United tion to reject their second-generation children and even States, and according to existing trends in education outside the home in schools and work places where the among Pacific Islanders, it can be expected that this pat- mainstream culture rejects them for being different. In tern is replicated by the lay population. the end, these second-generation young people look into destructive means such as gangs, substance abuse, vio- Pastoral leadership is key to building strong sus- lence, and sex in order to feel accepted and affirmed. The tainable congregations. According the Study’s findings, result is seen in the entire existing Pacific Island ministry. a majority of Pacific Islander United Methodist Ministry with the Poor churches are led by non-Pacific Islander senior pastors (56 percent), with 33 percent of the senior pastors being As first-generation immigrants, Pacific Islanders of Tongan ethnicity and less than 10 percent of pastors identify themselves with the poor in this country and drawn from the Samoan, Fijian, and Chamorro commu- their needs align with the needs of the poor. As with any nities. Pacific Islanders value self-determination and new immigrant group, there is great need among the seek to participate in ministries. However, they are ill new immigrants as they transition from their native sur- equipped to fully participate due to lack of knowledge roundings to their new surroundings with limited and experience. resources. The church is, next to the family, the focal point of Pacific Island immigrants’ lives. In light of that, As we would expect, the distribution of Pacific the church is in the best place to provide the resources Islander pastors reflects the number of church congre- that can be used to alleviate the effects of poverty in its gations by ethnicity. Among the total number of Pacific members’ lives and even for people in the community. Islander United Methodist pastors and laity 52 percent People newly arrived to the United States often need are Tongan, 15 percent Samoan, 11 percent Fijian while assistance in finding work and providing for their fami- Chamorro are the least represented among these Pacific lies. On a more basic level they may need assistance in Islander groups. As these populations are projected to navigating their way through often complex govern- continue to grow quite rapidly, there will again be a need mental and community systems for things as simple as to increase recruitment for Pacific Islander United school enrollment to things as challenging as getting Methodist pastors, and there are numerous opportunities adequate healthcare for their families. These barriers to provide adequate training and opportunities to en- can often become insurmountable when they are com- courage these individuals to serve in their communities. bined with a lack of English fluency and a reluctance to seek help alone. The church can play a vital role not Youth and Young Adult Leadership Development only in nurturing the spiritual needs of the community Youth and young adult leadership development is a but also in assisting newly arrived members settle in primary focus of the work of Pacific Island ministry. their communities so they in turn can become produc- Existing Pacific Island ministry has provided more than tive members of the church itself. Poverty is an area a spiritual home for first-generation Pacific Islanders. where Pacific Islanders require considerable assistance The church has also been the center of communal life as it is part of the vicious cycle of low education, low thus ensuring that there is a continuity of cultural tradi- paying jobs, and unmet needs that can trap families one tions, customs, and practices. The benefit of this reality generation after another. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:25 PM Page 1114

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Health congregations. Congregational development must be a response to organic needs within the community and Pacific Islanders have great health challenges. cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach. It is critical for Changes in lifestyle and food intake has led to dis- turbingly high rates of serious chronic illness, including Pacific Islanders to find the appropriate means of congestive heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes developing congregations and seek out the best prac- among Pacific Islanders, and yet, they are among the tices for doing the critical work within the context of highest number of uninsured people in the United the Pacific Island people and community. This is a big States. The church can be part of the solution in trying challenge to the work of the Comprehensive Plan and to end this downward spiral of quality of life due to bad demands substantial resources to ensure that this work health and end this cycle so that it does not affect the is done. The Plan envisions starting up and revitalizing second generation in the same critical way. In addition, 10 new and existing congregations within the next as this first generation of immigrants age they have quadrennium. pressing healthcare needs. The church needs to play a Language Resources major role in ministering to the Pacific Island people in this area. Much of the work of prevention and education As recent immigrants Pacific Islanders have great can be administered as part of the church’s program- language resources needs. The majority of Pacific matic work for its members, as well as outreach to the Islanders speak only their native language and under- community at large. The church is the center of life for stand very limited English. However, their numbers are most Pacific Islanders and therefore people would natu- not sufficient enough to demand much attention from rally be inclined to get this information from the church, local government and existing community resources. if the church has the resources to provide it. In addition, Therefore, there are no or very little resources available most Pacific Island immigrant churches are located in to them. The church once again can be instrumental in economically depressed areas and, therefore, this serv- providing resources in this area. Currently, there are no ice would be an excellent outreach tool to the commu- existing United Methodist resources in any of the nity as well. Pacific Island languages. Most of the existing congregations rely on resources from their home country for their Language is a big hindrance for immigrants and day-to-day needs here in the United States. acts to discourage people from getting the help that they Church as Community need. Although this is true for all needs, such as ministry with the poor and other areas, it is critical in areas of In the Pacific Island context, the church is the com- health, as it could have the effect of saving lives. Having munity and the family is the community. This is cer- access to information in their native language is impor- tainly a gift and we want to use it to further the work of tant especially in areas of dire need, such as critical the church. We would like to enhance the role of health problems and thus will have a lifesaving effect. churches in this area by being able to provide resources that will ensure the preservation of this value within the Congregational Development Pacific Island community. At the same time, this very Developing new congregations and revitalizing notion can become a hindrance to growth in this new existing congregations is a priority for the Pacific Island setting. Recognizing that this is a gift that Pacific ministry. Thus far, we have managed to maintain exist- Islanders can offer to the denomination and to the coming church communities that have for the most part munity here, it is important to explore ways that the been transplanted from the home country. In most Pacific Islander culture and tradition can be made rele- instances, people found themselves in communities vant to this new setting and thereby contribute to its that were shaped according to family, village, and preservation in the long run. Possible projects include regional ties from home countries, and therefore, it was parenting, elder care, domestic violence prevention, and easy to bind them together in church through their cultural knowledge and preservation. existing affiliation. Thus far, there has not been an Organization and Implementation intentional effort at developing and starting new congregations. The growing Pacific Island population and In order to implement the Comprehensive Plan for the changing demographics within that population Pacific Islander United Methodism, a committee will require the church to respond to it by finding the need to be established. It is recommended that the com- appropriate means for developing new Pacific Island mittee be composed of the following: 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1115

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• Two persons from each of the related Pacific Ministry Study Committee recommends the develop- Island sub-ethnic groups (currently approxi- ment of these ministries in the next quadrennium. mately 10 persons) 2013-2016 Proposed Budget • One staff of the Office of Asian Pacific Ministries of the General Board of Global Ministries It is recommended that a budget of $790,000 be • One staff of the Pacific Islanders National approved to support the development of new Pacific Caucus of United Methodists Island American congregations, development and train- • Other persons as needed (to be determined by the ing of new leadership, development of community committee) health and poverty ministries, and language resource development. Recommendation The Pacific Islanders Comprehensive Plan for

BUDGET 2013-2016 Pacific Islander National Plan for United Methodism

Leadership Development 2013 Training Event $ 30,000 2015 Training Event $ 30,000

Grants (conferences, ethnic groups, women, churches, etc.) $100,000 Training Scholarships (congregational development, Christian education, etc.) $ 20,000

Total $180,000

Youth and Young Adult Programs Scholarships to Attend Youth Events $15,000 Youth/Young Adult Training $15,000 Develop Pacific Islander Education Resources $10,000 Youth Education and Outreach $20,000 (gang intervention, substance abuse education, teen pregnancy prevention, etc.)

Total $60,000

Ministry with the Poor

Training on Outreach Ministry with the Poor $15,000 Training Resources (language specific) $ 5,000 Grants to Churches Providing Ministry with the Poor $40,000

Total $60,000

Health Language-Specific Training on Healthy Living (prevention, diabetes, hypertension, etc.) $20,000 Grants to local churches/community services (parish nursing/health services as community outreach, etc.) $35,000 Resource Development (language specific) $ 5,000

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Congregational Development Plant new congregations/strengthen existing congregations (20 at $10,000 each) $200,000

Total $200,000

Language Resources Translate/create resources in Pacific Islander languages $40,000 (stewardship, polity translation, class/small group, youth materials, curriculum for youth, discipleship, training material in languages—Tongan, Samoan, Fijian)

Total $40,000

Church as Community Train churches to provide services to the community (parenting classes, elder care, domestic violence prevention, cultural knowledge, etc.) $20,000 Grants to churches providing community services $25,000

Total $45,000

Administrative Expenses Program Support Services $65,000 Administrative Expenses (committee meetings, etc.) $35,000 Consultant Services $45,000

Total $145,000

GRAND TOTAL $790,000

Committee Members: Rev. Eddie Kelemeni (Tongan) Rev. Sione Veikoso (Tongan) Rev. Havili Mone (Tongan) Mrs. Latu Koloto (Tongan) Rev. K. F. Kaleuati (Samoan) Mr. Tu`ua Tu`ua (Samoan) Ms. Tala Fetui (Samoan) Mr. Inoke Qarau (Fijian)

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Global Ministries 1117 Summary Report on the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry

Twenty years ago, The United Methodist Church on and move forward in hope and faith. Thanks to the dreamed of a community of faith that would include all good work of annual conferences, general agencies, and of God’s beloved children and with this vision it started persons from throughout the connection who are com- serving the Hispanic/Latino communities in the United mitted to ministry with and among Hispanic/Latino peo- States through a national plan for Hispanic/Latino min- ple, the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry has istry. Since the 1992 General Conference, and in coop- been able to achieve many of the goals set before it for eration with the General Board of Global Ministries, the quadrennium now ending. General Board of Discipleship, General Board on Some of Our Accomplishments Higher Education and Ministry, General Board of Church and Society, and many annual conferences, the • From the beginning of 2009 until now, the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry has helped national office has been working in partnership plant churches and revitalized existing congregations. It with more than 23 annual conferences across the has also trained leaders and created contextualized train- country on establishing 57 new Hispanic/Latino ing resources. More annual conferences are involved in congregations reflecting the mixture of cultures Hispanic/Latino ministry today than ever before. We and generations with their unique flavors of wor- give thanks to God for all the support the Church has ship and liturgy. given to the plan. • More than 132 new faith communities were created, providing opportunities for training and However, the United States has continued to grow practice for the new leaders developed in in population and change in social complexity, challeng- response to the continuous growth of our coming the church to be responsive to the new social reali- munities demographically. ties. The Hispanic/Latino population today is around • At the moment, 104 existing congregations from 50.6 million in the United States (16.3 percent of the four annual conferences have been enrolled in the total population) and will constitute 30 percent of the process of mobilization, creating new momentum total population by the year 2050. Sadly, research still in the life of clergy and lay leadership. shows that Hispanics/Latinos in the United States are • In partnership with Global Ministries, the Desert underserved, underprivileged, and underrepresented. Southwest Annual Conference designated a national missionary for border ministries and This reality has greatly affected the ministry con- immigration. text of Hispanic/Latino churches in the United States • We continue contributing to the Interagency Task and the lives of their members. Furthermore, it has Force on Immigration. placed on the shoulders of The United Methodist Church • The National Plan has collaborated on developing the need to adopt unprecedented strategies and imple- 30 Rapid Response Teams at the annual confer- ment new initiatives to reach out to all people with the ence level. good news of Jesus Christ. Despite our strong efforts to • Thirty-one annual conferences have worked with equip and mobilize our Hispanic/Latino brothers and consultants of the National Plan on developing sisters for the doing of God’s own work, there is still conference strategies for Hispanic/Latino ministry. much work to be done to develop new Hispanic/Latino • At the moment, 22 missionaries of the National communities of faith in our annual conferences and to Plan have been deployed to 14 annual confer- provide well-prepared leadership for Hispanic/Latino ences to do ministry at different levels. ministry to meet the challenges that the present demo- • More than $600,000 has been granted to 10 graphics and global realities present. annual conferences to develop new faith communities and other Hispanic/Latino Ministries. In spite of economic recession, anti-immigrant sen- • Sixty community centers have been opened to timents, and a broken immigration system that has had assist people under significant levels of stress negative consequences on US society, Hispanic/Latino because of a variety of reasons, including health- communities and congregations have managed to hold care assistance, housing, and immigration status. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1118

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• A series of jurisdictional consultations were cele- The National Committee of the National Plan for brated with the main purpose of testing and eval- Hispanic/Latino Ministry continues to recommend that uating alternative models of theological education this work be guided by a national office and national for Hispanics/Latinos on their path to ordination. coordinator located at Global Ministries under the direc- We concluded these consultations with a national tion of a national committee and its executive commit- gathering at Perkins School of Theology April 11- tee. We further recommend that the work of the National 13, 2011. Plan be implemented in collaboration with the four program agencies of The United Methodist Church— The National Committee of the National Plan for Global Ministries, General Board of Church and Hispanic/Latino Ministry believes that a continuation of Society, General Board of Discipleship, and General the work on the four priorities the National Plan worked Board of Higher Education and Ministry. on for the past four years best responds to the needs of Finally, the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino annual conferences and Hispanic/Latino churches and Ministry requests that the 2012 General Conference congregations in the United States. Thus, the National approve $3,152,788.00 for the implementation of the Committee recommends to the General Conference to National Plan during the 2013-2016 quadrennium. This continue with the same basic priorities that led the pres- amount will be allocated to the four general program ent quadrennium, namely, Congregational Develop- agencies (Global Ministries, General Board of Church ment, Immigration Ministry and Other Social Concerns, and Society, General Board of Discipleship, and Annual Conference and Local Church Strategy, and General Board of Higher Education and Ministry) in Leadership Formation. consultation with the National Committee of the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1119

Global Ministries 1119 Report on the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry: ¡Vengan al Banquete! Come to the Banquet!

I. INTRODUCTION churches and communities of faith and revitalized existing congregations. It has also trained leaders and created A. Our Vision: Serving All of God’s People! contextualized training resources. More annual conferences are involved in Hispanic/Latino ministry today The journey of the National Plan for Hispanic/ than ever before. The support given by the whole church Latino Ministry (NPHLM) began with a timeless vision. has allowed the plan to serve people in need; in need of More than two decades ago, The United Methodist healing and wholeness, of a place to belong, and in need Church envisioned a world in which all cultures would of the love of God. We are grateful to God for blessing hear of the saving acts of God and give witness to them us and using us as channels of his never-ending love. in their own tongues. With its eyes fixed on this destina- tion the church started serving the Hispanic/Latino com- For two decades, we have worked hard. We have munities in the United States through a national plan for done our best. We have learned valuable lessons. As we Hispanic/Latino ministry. In biblical language, the look back with gratitude and joy from the mountaintop church dreamed of a community of faith that would of 2012 to the valley of 1992, we have to say with include all of God’s beloved children and strengthened Samuel, “Thus far the LORD has helped us!” (1 Samuel its efforts to build a church rich with the beauty of all 7:12). God has been our Ebenezer, our rock of help. races and cultures. B. A New Challenge: The Largest As one in Christ, we were so bold as to claim for Minority Group and More ourselves a ministry that would serve all of God’s peo- Since 1992, however, the United States has contin- ple. Together we committed to hoping and working for ued to grow in population and in social complexity. New the day when all would “come from east and west and realities are defying the church like never before. What, north and south” to “take their places at the feast in the then, should we say about the people we are called to kingdom of God” (Luke 13:29, New International serve today in the United States? In what context does Version). The promise of a Great Fiesta prepared for all God’s vision of salvation and transformation for the is what guided our walk as we remembered the charge: world take place now, 20 years since we began? What “. . . when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crip- does it mean to be a church for all of God’s beloved in pled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, the 21st century? Who is God calling to his heavenly because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at banquet through our collaboration and witness? the resurrection of the righteous” (Luke 14:13-14). The Hispanic/Latino population in the United With faith and hope in a promising future as the States has dramatically changed. According to the 2010 Hispanic/Latino population was beginning to explode, US Census Bureau, there are approximately 50.6 million the 1992 General Conference committed to support a Hispanics/Latinos in the United States today, which national plan that would address the needs of the account for more than half of the nation’s overall growth Hispanic/Latino community. Since that time, our church of 27.3 million people in the past 10 years. has enthusiastically endorsed the plan at the General Hispanics/Latinos are now 16.3 percent of the entire Conferences of 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2008 and population and will be 30 percent of the US population responded to the challenges and opportunities presented in just a few decades. In fact, the Hispanic/Latino popu- by every quadrennium. In cooperation with the General lation has grown 43 percent since 2000. One out of Board of Global Ministries, General Board of every six persons living in the United States today is of Discipleship, General Board of Higher Education and Hispanic/Latino descent, while it is estimated that by Ministry, General Board of Church and Society, and 2050, three out of every 10 persons will be Hispanic/ many annual conferences, the plan has helped establish Latino.1 These numbers do not take into account those

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persons who are in the United States without legal doc- the literacy skills to perform everyday tasks, umentation, a number estimated to be anywhere while 40 percent of Hispanics, ages 16 and older between 10 and 15 million. Thus, the actual lack basic English skills and even struggle to read Hispanic/Latino population is higher than what the and write in their own native language. Census Bureau reports.2 • Since 2007 the unemployment rate of Hispanics/ Latinos has more than doubled, rising from 6.3 Previously, the Hispanic/Latino population was percent to 12.6 percent, or a total of 2.9 million concentrated in nine states; now it is spread throughout persons. Naturally, these numbers do not include the country, particularly in metropolitan areas and the the underemployed or the unemployed undocu- American West and South. Some of the largest increases mented population, which makes the situation have occurred in Alabama, Louisiana, and North even more challenging. Carolina where immigrants have made large inroads. • Poverty among Hispanics/Latinos—born in the It is surprising that cities such as Boston, Baltimore, United States and abroad—is about 23 percent. and Milwaukee are no longer in the top 20 in terms of Hispanic/Latino women and children consis- population. They have been surpassed by cities like tently find themselves at the bottom of the eco- El Paso, Texas, and Charlotte, North Carolina, where nomic pyramid, experiencing the most severe the growth of the Hispanic/Latino population has been impacts of poverty. significant. • Approximately 76 percent of US-born Hispanics/Latinos and 84 percent of foreign-born As the United States gradually becomes more Hispanics/Latinos say their current personal racially and ethnically diverse, studies indicate that the finances are in either fair or poor shape. explosive growth of the Hispanic/Latino population— • Hispanics/Latinos still represent the youngest caused primarily by high birth rates but also through sector of US society. Hispanics/Latinos presently migration—does not go hand-in-hand with social account for close to 25 percent of children under progress. The US economic recession appears to only the age of 18. In at least 10 states, children of aggravate the social plight of Hispanics/Latinos. color represent more than 50 percent of the child Research shows that Hispanics/Latinos in the United population, up from five states in 2000. They States have consistently been underserved, underprivi- include Mississippi, Georgia, Maryland, Florida, leged, and underrepresented.3 Let us look at some star- Arizona, Nevada, Texas, California, New tling facts: Mexico, and Hawaii. • Tens-of-thousands of families have been sepa- • Only 13 percent of Hispanics/Latinos have a col- rated because of anti-immigrant state-level legis- lege degree or higher in comparison to the rest of lation and law-enforcement actions against the US population, which stands at 30 percent. undocumented immigrants. • The high school completion rate for Hispanics/ • Under the Obama administration, the number of Latinos is 58 percent, while the percentages for raids of work sites where Hispanics/Latinos work other ethnic groups are much higher (Caucasian— and deportations of immigrants has doubled from 94 percent, Asians/Pacific Islanders—96 percent, the numbers of previous administrations. In the and African Americans—88 percent). About 41 last two years, close to 400,000 immigrants were percent of Hispanic/Latino adults age 20 and deported. older do not have a high school diploma. • The school dropout rate among Hispanic/Latino The above snapshots are symptoms of wider social children is about 28 percent; almost triple the realities that economists and social scientists interpret as percentages for dropout rates for African the impact of globalization. Hispanics/Latinos among Americans (8.4 percent) and Caucasians (5.3 others have been negatively affected by the underbelly percent). of globalization that doles out an uneven distribution • According to the US Department of Education of goods and resources. Many immigrants are forced (2005), an estimated 11 million US adults lack to migrate because of the impact of unjust regional and

2. Since census takers do not differentiate between respondents based on their immigration status, it is impossible to determine how many persons are in the United States without documentation. 3. See www.pewhispanic.org 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1121

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global economic agreements that may benefit a few but The following pages contain recommendations of a undermine the livelihood of many. The North American dream in action. We believe it embodies God’s own Free Trade Agreement is one such regional economic dream for our brothers and sisters of Hispanic/Latino agreement that has had a negative impact on Mexicans descent who today live in the United States. These rec- who have subsequently immigrated to the United States ommendations build on the good work accomplished in an effort to survive.4 Climate changes, war, and the during the 2009-2012 quadrennium. benefits that corporate globalization does offer, also II. THE NATIONAL PLAN FOR contribute to a push-and-pull factor that forces people to HISPANIC/LATINO MINISTRY move from one place to another seeking safety and well- being. People also migrate in the hope that they too will A. Definition be able to taste a bit of God’s abundance.5 The National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry This global reality has greatly affected the ministry (NPHLM) is the first comprehensive, coordinated, and context of Hispanic/Latino churches in the United States systematic effort of The United Methodist Church to and the life context of their members. Furthermore, it serve the Hispanic/Latino communities living in the has placed on the shoulders of The United Methodist United States. Through the NPHLM, The United Church the need to adopt unprecedented strategies and Methodist Church has sought to invite Hispanic/Latino implement new initiatives to reach out to all people with persons to discipleship in the name of Jesus Christ and the good news of Jesus Christ. Despite our strong efforts to membership in The United Methodist Church.6 With to equip and mobilize our Hispanic/Latino brothers and this specific visionary focus in mind, the NPHLM has sisters for the doing of God’s own work, there is still worked in collaboration with four program agencies of much work to be done to develop new Hispanic/Latino The United Methodist Church to assist annual confer- communities of faith in our annual conferences, and to ences in the United States to more effectively reach out provide well-prepared leadership for Hispanic/Latino to Hispanic/Latino persons.7 It also has strived to help ministry to meet the challenges that the present demo- The United Methodist Church grow in its cultural com- graphics and global realities confront us with. The petency through modules of learning and leadership Hispanic/Latino population growth in the five US juris- development based on the Hispanic/Latino context of dictions and throughout our US annual conferences ministry. demands a response. B. Methodology What do recent demographic changes and global From its inception the NPHLM has based its work realities mean 20 years after The United Methodist on a methodology that recognizes that persons are not Church birthed its NPHLM? How is God speaking empty banks to be filled, but men and women with deep through the signs of our time? What path should we life experiences, wisdom, and even faith. Borrowing walk to serve all of God’s people? What specific actions from the groundbreaking pedagogical work of Paolo and initiatives must we dream and implement? What Freirre, the NPHLM has encouraged those seeking to do adaptive changes must The United Methodist Church Hispanic/Latino ministry to SEE, JUDGE, and ACT. In make to be able to genuinely invite and welcome order to be in effective ministry one must be willing to Hispanics/Latinos to God’s banquet? What institutional see the social reality in which Hispanics/Latinos live. barriers must we tear down to be the hospitable hosts Seeing, however, is never enough. One must take the Christ calls us to be? next step of critically evaluating the social reality before

4. For example, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, El Banco Inter-Americano de Desarrollo, etc. 5. On this issue, see Aquiles Ernesto Martinez, “Migration and The United Methodist Church: A Roadmap and Directions” (December, 2010). This is an analysis and series of recommendations presented to key leaders of the delegation that attended the People’s Global Action on Migration, Development, and Human Rights Forum in November, 2010, in Mexico City. For a more detailed analysis on globalization and its link to migrations, see Raúl Delgado Wise, Humberto Márquez Covarrubias, and Rubén Puentes, Reframing the Debate on Migration, Development and Human Rights: Conceptual Framework (México: INEDIM, 2010). 6. For detailed information about the vision and mission of the plan, see previous reports to the General Conference of The United Methodist Church. 7. Contrary to some popular understanding, the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry is not a program, agency, or granting institution. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1122

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us. As people of Christian faith this critical evaluation Resourceful must always be done through the lens of Holy Scripture Believing that “el pueblo,” the people themselves and faith. Finally, one must determine what action one are the best resource the church can count on, the will take. Action is always grounded in an understand- NPHLM has trained thousands of laypersons for ing of God’s will for God’s people. The ultimate goal is Hispanic/Latino ministry, enabling them to exercise the the transformation of persons and the world in the name priesthood of all believers. These lay missioners work- and power of Christ Jesus. ing together with mentor pastors have caused a move- C. Core Values ment that has planted new communities of faith throughout the connection, and extended ministries of Closely connected with the above distinctive fea- compassion and justice to communities throughout the tures, the NPHLM bears some core values. Put simply, United States. During this past quadrennium, the the NPHLM is holistic, people-centered, connectional, NPHLM has partnered with Path 1 to reach the denom- 8 resourceful, and prophetic. inational goal of planting 650 new churches in the Holistic United States. The commitment is that 75 of these new church starts will be Hispanic/Latino congregations. Since its beginning the NPHLM has insisted on Because of the Hispanic/Latino community’s global ministry that is Wesleyan in spirit and character. Efforts ties, the NPHLM has also sought to contribute insight to assist annual conferences in training leaders, mobiliz- and support to work with Spanish and Portuguese ing congregations, and in starting new communities of speakers outside of the United States, particularly with faith among and with Hispanics/Latinos have been inte- the Methodist churches of Latin America and the grally connected with community and justice ministries. Caribbean. Personal piety and social holiness are indeed insepara- ble in the perspective and work of the NPHLM. Prophetic People-Centered A distinctive feature of the NPHLM has been its efforts to teach the institutional church that to serve the In its theological foundation and outreach the Hispanic/Latino communities in the United States NPHLM seeks to strengthen the movement of God’s requires that the church be willing to speak a prophetic people in mission and ministry. While acknowledging word of justice and hope in the midst of the serious the importance of the institutional church, its priority is social concerns that most affect these communities. A to enable the people of God to be fully engaged in God’s commitment to the holistic well-being of persons and work in the world. Whether the task is leadership for- communities is biblical and necessary if the church is to mation, the planting of new communities of faith, or the be faithful. mobilization of existing congregations, the NPHLM supports the work of God’s people through an inten- III. PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE 2009- tional process of acompañamiento—accompaniment or 2012 QUADRENNIUM walking with. As mandated by the 2008 General Conference, the Connectional National Committee of the NPHLM has been working very diligently to lead The United Methodist Church in The NPHLM is deeply rooted in the United working on four focused areas of ministry: Developing Methodist ethos of connectionalism. It strives to New Congregations, Immigration Ministry and Other strengthen connectional ties both through teaching and Critical Social Issues, Annual Conference and Local practice. Working in partnership with United Methodist Church Strategy, and Leadership Formation. program agencies and annual conferences, it works diligently to bring together leaders from within and across In spite of economic recession, anti-immigrant sen- annual conferences for training and strategizing. A con- timent, and broken immigration policies that have nectional network of trained lay and clergy leaders wreaked havoc on Hispanic/Latino communities and serves to facilitate the ongoing work of reaching out to congregations, Hispanic/Latino communities and Hispanic/Latino persons, families, and communities. churches have managed to hold on and move forward in

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hope and faith. Thanks to the good work of annual con- 2. Stories ferences, general agencies, and persons from throughout Stories of faithfulness and fruitfulness from the connection who are committed to ministry with and throughout the connection in the United States tell us among Hispanic/Latino people, the NPHLM has been that God is at work among us. In the Minnesota able to achieve many of the goals set before it for the Conference, La Puerta Abierta United Methodist quadrennium now ending. The testimonies and stories Church, under the leadership of the Rev. Nohemí of this work encourage the church to do more. We Ramirez, is a congregation that underwent revitalization hereby share a glimpse of the results of our collaborative in just two short years. From an average worship atten- efforts over this past quadrennium. dance of 25, this church grew to an average of 85 and is A. Developing New Congregations moving toward becoming a multicultural congregation. Community outreach programs have been created or We are grateful for what God has enabled through reactivated. Programs such as Pepper Kids, Angel Food, the NPHLM. Church planting and growth has been one and Blessing Basket have blessed the larger community. of the four focus areas of the work of the NPHLM that God has blessed over these past four years. The Northern Illinois Conference has also taken seriously multicultural ministries. Equipping clergy and 1. Accomplishments laity, starting new congregations, and mentoring young • In partnership with 31 US annual conferences and people have been part of the good work they have done. Path 1, the NPHLM assisted in the establishment Since 1980, El Mesías United Methodist Church has of 57 new Hispanic/Latino congregations that been known for sending forth missionaries to start new reflect the diversity of the Hispanic/Latino cultures congregations. Thanks to their support and the initiative and generations with their unique contributions to of the leadership of Epworth United Methodist Church, worship and preaching, discipleship, community- the congregation La Luz de Cristo was started under the building fellowship, and social witness. leadership of the Rev. Rubén Rivera. This new congre- • In partnership with PATH 1, the NPHLM has gation grew out of the hard work of Rev. Rivera who been developing criteria and goals for planting spent much time visiting persons and families in the new congregations, revitalizing existing ones, community and then inviting them to his home where he and supporting vital and growing congregations initiated communities of faith. Bethel United Methodist that are sensitive and responsive to the cultural Church under the leadership of the Rev. David Sanchez values and needs of Hispanic/Latino communi- is also working hard to the reach out to Hispanic/Latino ties. In cooperation with the General Board of persons. Discipleship we are developing new curriculum for church planters and lay missionaries and net- The California-Pacific, Desert Southwest, and works as well. Clergy and laypersons from many North Georgia Conferences, have developed compre- annual conferences have participated in boot hensive conference strategies for Hispanic/Latino min- camps for new church starts and similar forms of istry, working closely with staff from Global Ministries training. We provided funding for training of lay and the General Board of Discipleship and in conjunc- missionaries and workshops. tion with the national office of the NPHLM. Each one • Through the leadership of trained lay missioners, has been granted a $75,000 matching grant to imple- more than 132 new faith communities were ment their strategies. created.9 • In collaboration with the leadership of four In the North Georgia Conference steps were taken annual conferences the NPHLM has worked with to more intentionally move their existing mission con- 104 congregations through a process of church gregations to become chartered congregations. Its con- mobilization that is revitalizing churches, clergy, ference coordinator for Hispanic/Latino ministry, and lay leaders. assisted by a representative of their cabinet, engaged the

9. A faith community is a small group of believers that, connected to a local church and being an extension of it in an organic way, reaches out to the neighborhood, strengthens the ministry of the sponsoring local church and, with time and growth, could well become its own organized church. A faith community is “the church in miniature,” a gathering equivalent to the traditional band or household cell. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1124

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help of the NPHLM in a series of dialogues with the Annual conferences must intentionally seek ways Hispanic/Latino pastors to assess their 21 Hispanic/ to shepherd Hispanic/Latino faith communities to Latino ministries in the hope of moving them to greater becoming chartered congregations. Many of these faith levels of fruitfulness. To best help this conference, repre- communities and their leadership do not know how to sentatives of the national office of the NPHLM met and take this important step but desire to grow and con- worked with the bishop of this conference and his cabinet. tribute to the work of the whole church.

The Rio Grande Conference, by recommendation This is the time for annual conference leaders to of their bishop and cabinet, underwent a process of con- strengthen their commitment to accompany these faith gregational mobilization facilitated by the NPHLM. communities. It may require learning even more about Two districts, the Northwest and Central Districts, com- Hispanic/Latino ministry; for, not unlike ministry in the pleted the first stage of the process for a total of 50 local dominant culture, Hispanic/Latino ministry has become congregations who were trained along with their district more complex over the last 20 years. Through its con- superintendent. The 40 local congregations of the South nectional work, the National Committee of the NPHLM District are preparing to also undergo the process of has become aware of the struggles and isolation that congregational mobilization. These are but examples conference Hispanic/Latino ministry coordinators often of the kind of work the NPHLM has been about with face. God’s help. We encourage annual conferences to provide more 3. Reflection assistance and concrete support to these coordinators. While much has been achieved in the focus area of Due to the deficit of Hispanic/Latino pastoral leaders in church planting and growth there is yet much more to The United Methodist Church, many Hispanic/Latino do. A few observations are in order to help us improve pastors come from other denominations. While many of our ministry. them have become strong and faithful pastors in The United Methodist Church, others have not been able to The relatively low number of Hispanic/Latino embrace United Methodist polity or its ethos, often leav- churches and the low Hispanic/Latino membership in ing the denomination in ways that undermine the min- The United Methodist Church today readily shows the istry they are a part of. need to improve our work considerably. The General Commission on Finance and Administration 2010 statis- We must continue to find ways to better equip tical report indicates that there are only 67,537 Hispanic/Latino pastors for ministry including finding Hispanic/Latino lay members in the United States out of more effective means for assisting pastors who join us a total US membership of 7,774,420. This represents a from other faith traditions to fully become United mere 0.9 percent of the total membership. Out of the Methodists. The greatest challenge that faces The 33,307 US United Methodist churches, only 374 are United Methodist Church in terms of pastoral leadership Hispanic/Latino congregations.10 This accounts for only for Hispanic/Latino ministry is growing our own lead- 1.1 percent of the US-based United Methodist ers. While the sharing of facilities between established churches.11 The United Methodist Church must continue congregations and new Hispanic/Latino congregations to consider these telling statistics side by side with the has greatly improved, there continue to be challenges. growing Hispanic/Latino population. As part of its mis- We must not assume that our congregations can easily sion to invite all peoples to God’s banquet, The United know how to extend gracious hospitality to Hispanic/ Methodist Church must also continue to intentionally Latino people or that Hispanic/Latino people know how respond to the enormous opportunity that a growing to assume their own responsibility in a shared facility Hispanic/Latino population provides. It must continue situation. Issues of control of properties, lack of mutual recruiting, training, and deploying leaders for understanding, and even racism continue to plague min- Hispanic/Latino ministry while also providing these istries that share facilities. These shared facility arrange- leaders and ministries with adequate financial and spiri- ments must be carefully entered into and prayerfully tual support. Other concerns have also been encountered monitored and supported by annual conference leaders in the implementation of the NPHLM. who can step in and be helpful at appropriate times.

10. This does not include the 54 churches of the present quadrennium. 11. Namely, 463 new congregations and 3,000 faith communities from 1993 until 2007. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1125

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The recent commitment of The United Methodist One effect of this broad mixture of anti-immigrant Church to plant new churches has again made us aware efforts on the work of the NPHLM has been to hamper, of the fact that dominant culture models of church plant- and in many cases threaten, the efforts of Hispanic/ ing are often alien and thus unhelpful in planting new Latino leaders and churches as they minister among not Hispanic/Latino churches. Church planting that is cul- only the undocumented US immigrant community, but turally sensitive is as much a need among Hispanic/ also the entire Hispanic/Latino community. It has also Latino communities as it is for others. The NPHLM will frozen the willingness of many of the denomination’s continue to cooperate with Path 1 in the development of citizen-based congregations to minister with the culturally appropriate models for church planting in the Hispanic/Latino immigrant community in any way. In Hispanic/Latino context, but it will take all of us work- other words, the single issue of unauthorized immigra- ing intentionally on this matter for The United tion has hampered the mission of our entire denomina- Methodist Church to be an effective planter of new tion to the Hispanic/Latino community. churches in Hispanic/Latino communities. 1. Stories Brazilian ministries have been a developing aspect While the National Plan continues to support of the work of the NPHLM, but these ministries need efforts to minister to several critical social issues affect- more support from the general church as well. The ing Hispanic/Latino immigrants, in this quadrennium National Committee of the NPHLM is aware of the need immigration has taken the spotlight and consumed a to continue working on a strategic plan for church plant- good part of the plan’s time and energy. Although things ing in the Hispanic/Latino context and commits to might look hopeless now to many immigrants, the plan assisting the church in preparing such a plan.12 We sees signs of God’s presence and guidance. Our God is praise God for what has been accomplished. Indeed the a pilgrim God who walks with all migrants throughout Holy Spirit has been faithful in touching many lives the world, and the same God also walks with the church with the grace of Jesus Christ. as it serves them. Because of God’s faithfulness in the midst of great human struggle we have witnessed pow- B. Immigration Ministry and Other Critical erful signs of hope. Social Concerns One sign of hope surfaced in the Desert Southwest The National Plan’s focus on immigration responds Conference. In response to the harsh anti-immigrant to The United Methodist Church’s focus on ministry Arizona law SB 1070 enacted in 2010, the conference with the poor. Throughout the previous decades, the has helped guide the denomination on matters of immi- United States’ inability to deal adequately with the chal- gration through the leadership of Bishop Minerva lenges presented by immigration has condemned many Carcaño and with help from the National Plan’s new immigrants, both documented and undocumented, to a national missionary for immigration and border con- life in the shadows of poverty. cerns, the Rev. Jim Perdue. From this conference’s struggle many resources and experiences have emerged US immigration policy is outdated and ineffective, that can benefit the ministry of all our conferences.13 and it places an unjust burden on both the immigrant population and the nation’s economy. Over the past Another sign of hope has emerged even through the decade US governmental agencies tasked with finding socioeconomic challenges to the immigrant community, and removing undocumented immigrants have seen both anti-immigrant state-legislation in a number of states, their budgets and their removal rates increase exponen- workplace raids, and deportations. For more than a year tially. More recently, anti-immigrant forces at the state at the Mi Familia Center14 in the North Georgia level have unleashed a groundswell of legislation Conference, immigrants have taken English-as-a- designed to reinforce and at times go beyond the federal second-language courses as part of a larger process of mandate. social integration and participation. The ministry of the

12. On these issues, see Marigene Chamberlain (chair), Elías Galván, Mary Silva, Helene Slessarev-Jamir, Héctor Soto Vélez, and Michael Rivas (consultant), Assessment Report Presented to the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry, October 31, 2006, revised. 13. Those resources are available for download from www.desertsouthwestconference.org/immigration 14. More information is available at www.ngumc.org/news/detail/604 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1126

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center includes after-school classes, health fairs, immi- shares alongside other denominational agencies gration clinics, mobilization, and systematic efforts to in formulating and accomplishing immigration prepare migrants for the eventuality of comprehensive strategies. Since the beginning of the current quad- immigration reform. Luis Velasquez, a volunteer and rennium, with organizing and coordinating assis- member of a program at the center called LEAD tance from the General Board of Church and (Latino/as empowered to Act and Dream), recently Society, the task force has overseen the formation received a César Chávez Essay Contest Award. of Rapid Response Teams in 34 annual conferences. Each conference Rapid Response Team A third sign of hope arose in the midst of family has advocated for US immigration policy reform, separation and fear in Winchester, Virginia, where many counteracted anti-immigrant legislation in its United Methodist Christians found time to volunteer own state legislature, and assisted more than 60 and educate the children of immigrants.15 In the Virginia individual immigrants caught up in raids and Conference, Amor y Paz (Love and Peace) United deportation proceedings to claim their rights. Methodist Church receives support from eight other • Many annual conferences wrote resolutions on local churches to run a summer program for immigrant immigration, and the NPHLM has worked as part children ages 6-12. The program includes Bible study, of the Interagency Task Force on Immigration to storytelling, songs, prayer, crafts, educational activities, support those resolutions, as well as to accom- puppet shows, and outdoor activities. These volunteers pany conferences and undocumented students are signs of God’s unconditional love. nationwide in their efforts to pass the US DREAM Act.17 A fourth sign of hope came forth from the Ypsilanti • Within the framework of the Interagency Task United Methodist Church16 of the Detroit Conference Force on Immigration, the NPHLM also has where Pastor Melanie Carey and church members found begun to work in collaboration with our denomi- that 18-year-old student Jasmine Franco had been nation’s Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON) pro- forced to leave high school in order to work and take gram, coordinated through the United Methodist over parenting duties for her younger sister. The girls’ Committee on Relief. JFON is creating a network parents had been deported to Guatemala. After Jasmine of free immigration legal clinics throughout the found herself forced to send her younger US-citizen sis- United States in order to help those who fall ter to Guatemala to live with their parents, she was alone through the cracks in the broken US immigration in the United States. The church soon became Jasmine’s system.18 adopted family, providing her support and housing so • In other work with the General Board of Church that she could finish high school. She has since become and Society during the present quadrennium, the an honor student in college, planning a career in medi- NPHLM has produced two modules on immigra- cine. As church members saw Jasmine begin to hope tion and provided immigration training to six and grow and thrive again their focus shifted to the big- annual conferences and one jurisdiction, thereby ger picture. They are raising awareness of the need to assisting a significant number of participants. change US immigration policies so that immigrant fam- • The NPHLM has also partnered with the ilies will not be torn apart as Jasmine’s family was. The Methodist Border Mission Network (MBMN) Ypsilanti church now has a different understanding of where it helps envision, coordinate, and support its own community, as well as its ministry with the both advocacy and relief ministries for immi- immigrant community. grants along the US-Mexico border in conjunction with the five United Methodist conferences 2. Accomplishments and the three conferences of the Methodist Church • The NPHLM has established a significant part- of Mexico located along that US-Mexico border. nership with our denomination’s Interagency • In cooperation with other religious and grassroots Task Force on Immigration, where it sits and organizations, especially the Interfaith Immigration

15. More information is available at www.vaumc.org/Page.aspx?pid=948 16. Jasmine’s story can be accessed from www.detroitconference.org/videos/detail/23. QuickTime may be needed to open the file. 17. Access history and information at www.wikipedia.org/wiki/DREAM_Act 18. More information about JFON is available at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/work/immigration/jfon/ 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1127

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• Coalition, the NPHLM has supported have learned that there is greater value in coordi- Ecumenical Advocacy Days and local and nating our efforts through the Interagency Task national rallies working for immigration policy Force on Immigration and the Interfaith reform. Networking and coalition building are Immigration Coalition, in order to leverage key parts of its work. greater power toward accomplishing US immi- • In a three-way partnership with Global Ministries gration policy reform that would benefit all stake- and the Desert Southwest Conference, the holders. NPHLM formed and has supported the new posi- • Second, neither the US Congress nor the admin- tion of National Missionary for Immigration and istration has the political will to bring about US Border Concerns. As the first Global Ministries immigration policy reform in the foreseeable and National Plan missionary appointed to this future. position, the Rev. Jim Perdue has helped • Third, US culture is polarized by a stalemate churches and annual conferences learn how to between ideological fronts on the left and the come to the table to discuss the issue of immi- right of the political spectrum. Because these gration. He has also produced useful resources fronts protect power around many more cultur- such as Immigration Reform 101, Biblical ally divisive issues than immigration, neither can Musings on Immigration, and an online course give an inch in the stalemate long enough to entitled Immigration: The Religious Community explore workable US immigration solutions. and Sacred Scripture, and the Holy Conversation • Fourth, US culture has been moving through a Project. His work is available to all conferences period of intense incivility since the middle of the throughout the connection. 1990s, but this incivility may be reaching the end • In 2010, the NPHLM collaborated with Global of its course in the culture. Ministries to send a large delegation to Mexico • Fifth, The United Methodist Church is caught in City to meet with the People’s Global Action on both the polarization and the incivility. Migration, Development, and Human Rights.19 Throughout the past 15 years the church has been This network of global nonprofit agencies meets unable to find its way out of this wilderness or in conjunction with the United Nations’ Global learn how to function and minister within it.21 Forum on Migration and Development.20 A plan • Sixth, US immigration is driven by both the push of action is being designed now to help our of immigrants and the dire circumstances in their denomination understand individual nations’ home countries and the pull of the growth needs immigration problems within the broader scope of the aging US economy. But the immigration of global migration. policy debate consistently discounts the human • The National Plan has accompanied annual con- tragedy of the immigrants that are caught in the ferences and local churches in the development middle of this immigration policy morass. The of 60 community ministries to help meet some of church must not avoid that tragedy any longer. the pressing needs of their communities and the • Seventh, the most fruitful organizing work creation of five centers that serve communities toward eventual US immigration policy reform through social services and justice ministries. now is occurring in the middle of the political • Accompanied by the NPHLM, the North Georgia perspective, where the vast majority of United Conference also opened a community-justice Methodists are found. center that reaches out to Hispanic/Latino persons. • Finally, if it is to help develop power within the US Hispanic/Latino community consistent with 3. Reflection where that community is going rather than where • Over the past quadrennium the National Plan has it has been,22 the NPHLM must now embark on a learned some important lessons. First of all, we process of envisioning and constructing its own

19. Summary information for the Mexico event has not yet been posted on the internet. For information about Peoples’ Global Action see www.mfasia.org/pga/PGAMDHR.html 20. See www.gfmd.org/mexico-2010/index.php?lang=en 21. This insight comes from Gilbert R. Rendle, Behavioral Covenant in Congregations and Journey in the Wilderness: New Life for Mainline Churches. 22. According to US Census projections, by 2050 nearly three in 10 residents of the United States will be Hispanic/Latino. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1128

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national organizing strategy and network around the We rejoice that in spite of today’s negative US needs of the Hispanic/Latino immigrant community. atmosphere, during this quadrennium, by God’s grace, we have been able to make contributions and accom- This network will need to solicit help from those plished many things in the focus area of immigration with a track record in organizing institutional-based ministry and other social concerns. We give thanks to power for immigration policy change. This will help the God that sometimes crisis also presents the church with network learn how to conserve and leverage its power new opportunities for growth. We continue to place our through the Interagency Task Force on Immigration, as hope and trust in Christ who “is our peace.” We believe well as when and how to communicate, network, and that already Christ is making us one, breaking down the mobilize to accomplish its own vision and mission in dividing walls that separate us, and reconciling all of us concert with its allies. to God as one body through his own cross. Christ has indeed put to death our hostility (Ephesians 2:14-16). The United Methodist Church has a clear under- C. Annual Conference and Local Church standing of its responsibilities with respect to the human Strategy suffering experienced by many migrants around the world.23 Within these bounds, the NPHLM continues to The NPHLM celebrates the substantial progress it collaborate with general agencies, annual conferences, has made in the area of collaboration and partnership local churches, and grassroots and civic organizations to with annual conferences in order to develop effective help create a movement that will lead to just and fair US strategies to develop Hispanic/Latino ministries. immigration policy reform, thus opening a path for the 1. Accomplishments immigrant community to escape from poverty. • One hundred four local congregations from four annual conferences are under the long-term The NPHLM encourages The United Methodist mobilization process that promotes church revi- Church to support resolutions and initiatives both talization and transformation. denouncing and working to change indiscriminate • Thirty-one annual conferences have been part of workplace raids, detentions, exploitation, racial profil- the process of acompañamiento, which includes ing, and the criminalization of migrants. We also call technical assistance in the development of strate- upon it to support the priorities of family reunification gies for new Hispanic/Latino ministries; 17 coor- 24 and protection of the rights of women and children. dinators for Hispanic/Latino ministry are serving in half of those conferences. We hope to increase The NPHLM continues to expand into the area of these numbers. immigration-based ministry, and it invites the whole • National Plan-trained consultants have been church to join with it in this ministry of extravagant hos- assigned to work with 29 annual conferences on pitality to all Hispanic/Latino people, one that affirms their conference strategies for Hispanic/Latino and defends the dignity and rights of all immigrants, ministry. regardless of their migratory status. Likewise, it asks the • Nineteen missionaries related to the NPHLM whole church to struggle to remember what it means to have been deployed into service in 14 annual actually be the church in an immigration context, both in conferences. the way it relates among its own membership and in the • A partnership between the NPHLM and the way that it enters into ministry with the immigrant com- College of Bishops of the Western Jurisdiction munity, regardless of the outcome of governmental pol- has been forged to develop strategies to reach icy debates on the issue of immigration. Hispanics/Latinos in the West.

23. See “Global Migration and the Quest for Justice,” The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church, 2008. Resolution No. 6028, pp.754-63. 24. See Martinez, “Migration and The United Methodist Church: A Roadmap and Directions;” “Global Migration and the Quest for Justice,” The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church, 2008, Resolution No. 6028, pp.754-63; “Welcoming the Migrant to the US,” The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church, 2008, Resolution No. 3281, pp. 412-20; Statement on the US Immigration Situation, Council of Bishops, The United Methodist Church, May 2009; Resolution for the Protection of Immigrant Families and Children, Council of Bishops, The United Methodist Church, November 2009; Jim Perdue, Immigration Reform 101: A Joint Project of the Desert Southwest Conference and the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry of The United Methodist Church (Phoenix, Arizona, 2010). 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1129

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• More than $600,000 has been granted to 10 tors and support for other annual conferences through- annual conferences to develop new faith commu- out the connection. Connectionalism is one of the great- nities and other Hispanic/Latino ministries. est strengths of The United Methodist Church. If we can 2. Stories continue to tap into this resource of connectionalism, we are confident that God will bless our efforts, helping us to Collaboration with 31 annual conferences has been grow our Hispanic/Latino ministries. a significant gift to the NPHLM both in terms of strengthening the connectional bond as well as reaching D. Leadership Formation goals that have been critical to the ministry of annual There is no question that Hispanic/Latino churches conferences. In partnership with several agencies, the need more and stronger leaders, both clergy and lay. A NPHLM has provided assistance to annual conference fourth focus area of the NPHLM over this quadrennium efforts to develop Hispanic/Latino ministry under the has been precisely leadership formation, with an empha- four focus areas that have served as the NPHLM priori- sis on growing and strengthening our clergy leadership ties for this past quadrennium, namely, Congregational for Hispanic/Latino ministry. Development, Immigration Ministry and Other Critical 1. Accomplishments Social Concerns, Annual Conference and Local Church Strategy, and Leadership Formation. Annual confer- • In response to demographic changes in the ences have been assisted in developing conference United States and God’s calling to equip the strategies for Hispanic/Latino ministry. Grants have saints for the work of the ministry, the National been given to annual conferences to support their work Plan and General Board on Higher Education and of church planting. NPHLM missionaries have been Ministry convened a series of regional confer- deployed to annual conferences to assist them in their ences, culminating in a National Hispanic/ work with Hispanic/Latino communities. Training ses- Latino(a) Leadership Development consultation sions have been conducted to assist in the development that engaged the various segments of The United of clergy and lay leaders for Hispanic/Latino ministry. Methodist Church that play key roles in the formation of Hispanic/Latino leadership. This con- 3. Reflection sultation took place at Perkins School of Theology The most significant step taken by the National April 11-13, 2011. More than 70 leaders attended Plan this quadrennium under the focus area of Annual this important event. This consultation provided a Conference and Local Church Strategy was the strategic forum for conversations among persons engaged decision to intentionally give priority attention to eight in Course of Studies School programs, seminary annual conferences, California-Pacific, Desert education, colleges and universities, preparatory Southwest, Río Grande, Texas, Northern Illinois, schools, boards of ordained ministry, and cabinets. Greater New Jersey, North Georgia, and Florida. These A list of formal recommendations has been pre- annual conferences represent geographical areas with sented to the general board and the NPHLM for the highest Hispanic/Latino population growth in the their consideration and ongoing work in the area United States and a conference leadership that is com- of leadership formation. The most important rec- mitted to and invested in Hispanic/Latino ministry. ommendations point to several needs that must be While we have yet much more work to do with these cared for: 1) a full review of the Spanish Course annual conferences, during this quadrennium we have of Study; 2) securing a financial base to support worked hard to accompany and support the Hispanic/Latino enrollment and accessibility to Hispanic/Latino ministries of these annual conferences United Methodist colleges and universities; in the hope of being better stewards of the church’s 3) exploring the possibility of establishing an resources, more effectively reaching out to Hispanic/ endowment fund to support Hispanic theological Latino communities and more intentionally growing the education; 4) strengthening connections and church. It is the hope that through the strengthening of avenues of information to facilitate enrollment of these eight targeted annual conferences the NPHLM graduates from preparatory schools in United would build deeper partnerships with these annual con- Methodist colleges; and 5) making the ordination ferences and be able to call upon them to serve as men- process more welcoming to Hispanics/Latinos.25

25. See Report to the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministries from The National Hispanic Latino/a Leadership Consultations, The United Methodist Church 2008-2011, pp. 1-2. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1130

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• The NPHLM is committed to making sure that new faith communities and congregations and equipping these recommendations are implemented as soon clergy and the laity. as possible. • A new collaborative partnership was developed With the same spirit of urgency and collaboration between the General Board of Higher Education to equip the saints for ministry, the NPHLM has put and Ministry and the Seminario Latino much effort into working with the staff and cabinet of Americano of Costa Rica to offer an accredited the California-Pacific Conference. During the month of B.A. in Spanish, representing the fruit of many November 2010, in response to a request presented by years of negotiation and a step forward in theo- the Riverside District, the national office of the NPHLM logical education for Hispanic/Latino residents coordinated a daylong training for more than 125 par- and citizens in the United States for whom ticipants on the structure, doctrine, liturgy, and itineracy Spanish is a primary language. This program is system of The United Methodist Church. now being tested. Some college-related models that grant academic credit to Course of Study The Tennessee Conference has also taken very seri- School classes are also being considered. ously the task of equipping and supporting • In an effort to resource the church, the NPHLM Hispanic/Latino pastors. Eight of their Hispanic/Latino provided grants to the Hispanic Youth Academy, pastors were sent to the Course of Study School at Mi Familia Center, and the journal Apuntes. Garrett Evangelical Seminary. In cooperation with the • More than $150,000 has been granted to support Cal Turner Jr., Center for Church Leadership at Martin Methodist College, they also sponsored the Academia Academias Hispanas (Lay Academies), which Hispana/Latina para la Formación Cristiana y provide training for lay and pastor mentors. Capacitación de Líderes where they offered Modules I, • New training resources have been developed I, III, and other workshops to prepare pastors and including Modules in Congregational Develop- laypersons for pastoral ministry. ment, Pentecost Journey: A Planning Guide for Non-Hispanic/Latino Congregations, In a global society, knowing more than one lan- Cantometodista.com, a worship resource, and guage is a powerful asset to cross-cultural boundaries others. for Christ. In Rockford, Illinois, several pastors from the • The NPHLM offered 35 workshops in a number Northern Illinois Conference have taken Spanish classes of annual conferences to train clergy and laity for to strengthen their respective ministries. They set an ministry. These trainings benefited more than 800 excellent example for all of us. participants. • In cooperation with Global Ministries and the Partnership has been the key to many training General Board of Discipleship, the National Plan events for laity. The Virginia Conference and the produced resources to further help develop lead- Baltimore-Washington Conference, in partnership with ership for the ministry of local churches serving Path 1 and the National Plan, offered a series of semi- Hispanics/Latinos. nars that trained more than 40 laypersons on how to start 2. Stories new congregations. In another expression of collaboration, this event took place at Wesley Theological A commitment to leadership formation has been a Seminary. consistent guiding force of the NPHLM since its beginning. We are joyful and grateful for what God has The Greater New Jersey Conference continues enabled us to accomplish. Some inspiring news encour- working with the implementation of their recently ages us to walk the extra mile as we invite others to developed strategy for the equipping of leadership and come and be fed at the bounty of God’s table. churches for Hispanic/Latino ministry. Among their efforts is an initiative to develop a new Brazilian min- Significant progress was made in the Northern istry. Illinois Conference with the incorporation of training modules into their Harvest Academy. By God’s grace, In the Florida Conference, several consultations they continue implementing their conference strategy with their extended cabinet have taken place to develop for Hispanic/Latino ministry and finding new ways of a conference level strategy that would include the train- collaboration with the National Plan on establishing ing of lay missionaries. To empower and equip their pas- 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1131

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toral leadership for Hispanic/Latino ministry, this con- Hispanic/Latino congregations. Secondly, although we ference’s board of ordained ministry allows persons in recognize that during the past years, there has been a the process toward ordination to submit their work in slight increase in the number of ordained Hispanic/ Spanish. Latino clergy, for all practical purposes, this number has remained relatively steady for years and has not kept up The Hispanic Leadership Academy (HYLA), a pilot with the dramatic growth of the Hispanic/Latino popu- program of the Mexican-American Program at Perkins lation. The supply of pastors is below the demand. School of Theology, has worked with high school and Thirdly, we believe that the number of 418 ordained college level students in an effort to equip them for min- clergy could have been higher by now, but some boards istry, modeling the kind of work the church needs to be of ordained ministry lack the cultural competency to doing with Hispanic/Latino youth and young adults. effectively work with Hispanics/Latinos as they attempt to navigate the complex process to ordination in The 3. Reflection United Methodist Church. In addition, The United Leadership is the heart of Hispanic/Latino min- Methodist Church lacks clear recruitment strategies for istries. Without it the church cannot establish new con- the needs of Hispanic/Latino ministry. gregations and nurture them, address critical social issues and offer solutions, or develop strategies to work Fourthly, this report does not report the number of with annual conferences and local churches. The church full-time and part-time local pastors who have been understands that forming pastoral leadership is a prior- appointed during the last three years. Our work in the ity. However, current numbers indicate that we are field leads us to suspect that the number of behind in this area of critical focus. The number of Hispanic/Latino local pastors has increased while the ordained clergy, for instance, is inadequate, and most number of ordained Hispanic/Latino clergy has Hispanic/Latino churches are today served by nonor- remained static. If The United Methodist Church is to dained clergy. The following chart illustrates this point. faithfully grow its Hispanic/Latino ministry, it must give serious attention to the recruitment, equipping, and credentialing of Hispanic/Latino persons for ordained min- GCFA 2008 REPORT ON THE HIS- istry. The call, however, is for the whole church and not PANIC/LATINO CLERGY POPULATION just for Hispanic/Latino persons. IN THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The whole church is called to provide committed leadership to the development of Hispanic/Latino min- Ordained Clergy 418 61.3% istry. Responding faithfully to this call will require that Associate Members 447 6.8% The United Methodist Church continue to confront the Full-Time Local Pastors 106 15.4% institutional racism within its life and work that cripples Part-Time Local Pastors 113 16.5% and corrupts its efforts to reach out to not only Hispanics/Latinos but all people of color. Requiring cul- Total Hispanic/Latino Ministers 684 100% tural competency and a minimum of bilingualism of all who aspire to be ordained clergy in The United Methodist Church would benefit the church in its efforts This report merits some observations. When we to build the inclusive church that we claim Christ him- compare the total number of ordained clergy in full con- self calls us to build. nection (418 or 61.3 percent) with the total number of associate members (47 = 6.8 percent), full-time local IV. THE 2013-2016 QUADRENNIUM: pastors (106 = 15.4 percent), and part-time local pastors DREAMS AND GOALS (113 = 16.5 percent) (266 altogether, which constitutes After much prayer and analysis, the National 38.9 percent), the overall picture does not at first glance Committee of the NPHLM recommends to the General raise any major problems. However, these numbers are Conference to continue with the same basic priorities somewhat misleading. First of all, the total of 418 that led the present quadrennium, namely, Congrega- ordained clergy does not specify those who are in exten- tional Development, Immigration Ministry and Other sion ministries, are retired, or are serving non-Latino Social Concerns, Annual Conference and Local Church congregations. This number, then, is lower when we Strategy, and Leadership Formation. First of all, we are consider the number of ordained clergy who are serving still in the early stages of implementation processes for 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1132

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these priorities or focus areas of ministry. Secondly, we comprehensive strategic plans for Hispanic/ believe that continuation of the work on these priorities Latino ministry in their areas; best responds to the needs of annual conferences as • Resource annual conferences in processes of determined through a 2006 assessment conducted with local church mobilization for Hispanic/Latino annual conferences leaders.26 Thirdly, the present congregations in need of revitalization; Hispanic/Latino social reality confirms the need to con- • Enhance and develop Module III workshops and tinue working on these four priorities. We believe them other resources to assist annual conferences in to be the most helpful means to focus our ministry leadership development for their Hispanic/Latino among Hispanic/Latino people at this time. We are, ministries. however, recommending some adjustments to the specific goals. We respectfully recommend the following D. New Leadership Formation priorities and goals for the 2013-2016 quadrennium: The NPHLM will: A. Congregational Development • Continue providing leadership for Hispanic/ The NPHLM will resource annual conferences to: Latino ministry by working in partnership with Global Ministries to recruit, train, and deploy 25 • Establish 50 new Hispanic/Latino congregations commissioned missionaries to assist annual con- • Establish 250 new faith communities ferences specifically in the areas of congrega- • Accompany 50 congregations with the congregational development, annual conference accom- tional mobilization process to revitalize their paniment, local church mobilization, and immi- ministries. gration and other critical social concerns; B. Immigration Ministry and Other • Continue to equip and support lay missioners and Critical Social Concerns pastor-mentor teams, facilitators, consultants, and other leaders for Hispanic/Latino ministry; The NPHLM will: • Train and equip conference committees on Hispanic/Latino Ministry, conference staff, • Continue the deployment and support of a mis- and other lay and clergy leaders on NPHLM sionary for immigration and border concerns to priorities; assist the connection in addressing this critical • Assist The United Methodist Church in growing area of ministry; an educated and ordained pool of clergypersons • Continue collaborating with the Interagency Task for Hispanic/Latino ministry. Force on Immigration to lead the connection in responding to the need for comprehensive immi- V. SUPPORTING STRUCTURES AND gration reform in the United States and in the RESOURCES development of ministries of compassion that serve immigrants and their families and commu- The national committee of the NPHLM continues nities; to recommend that this work be guided by a national • Strengthen our collaboration with the JFON proj- office and national coordinator located at Global ect by jointly developing and implementing a Ministries under the direction of a national committee specific plan of collaboration in order to accom- and its executive committee. We further recommend that pany a greater number of annual conferences that the work of the NPHLM be implemented in collabora- are addressing immigration issues in their com- tion with the four program agencies of The United munities. Methodist Church—Global Ministries, General Board of Church and Society, General Board of Discipleship, C. Annual Conference and Local and General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Church Strategy A. General Agencies The NPHLM will: The NPHLM has a long and fruitful history of col- • Assist and accompany annual conferences to laboration with the four program agencies of The United develop, implement, and continuously evaluate Methodist Church. We look forward to an ongoing part-

26. See Assessment Report Presented to the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1133

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nership with these agencies. In consultation with the strategic plans for Hispanic/Latino ministry four program agencies of The United Methodist Church based on guidelines developed jointly with the we recommend the following plan for our collaborative National Committee of the NPHLM and provide work. matching grants for the implementation of these 1. The General Board of Church and Society shall: strategic plans; • In ongoing consultation with the National • Collaborate with the National Committee of Committee of the NPHLM design and update Hispanic/Latino Ministry in addressing the need Module I and II workshops for the lay missioners for comprehensive immigration reform in the and pastor-mentor teams and design and imple- United States. ment Module III workshops in areas of ministry • In consultation with the National Committee of related to making disciples of Jesus Christ for the Hispanic/Latino Ministry, design and implement transformation of the world; Module III workshops addressing the systemic • Resource the revitalization of Hispanic/Latino and structural issues related to Hispanics/Latinos congregations, particularly through the Congre- and immigration, healthcare, education, unem- gational Mobilization Process of the NPHLM; ployment, and housing issues; • In collaboration with General Board of • In consultation with the National Committee of Discipleship design and produce multimedia Hispanic/Latino Ministry, design and implement resources and implement workshops to train and orientations and training opportunities for support annual conference committees responsi- Hispanic/Latino leaders to learn advocacy skills ble for Hispanic/Latino ministry; to address critical social issues faced by the • In collaboration with General Board of Disciple- Hispanic/Latino communities in the United States. ship design and produce resource materials and • Collaborate with the National Committee on the implement workshops to assist annual conferences NPHLM to design, test, and perfect model pro- and local church leaders in planting and strength- grams and resources to respond to identified ening new Hispanic/Latino congregations; needs in implementing the NPHLM. • In consultation with the National Committee of 2. The General Board of Discipleship shall: the NPHLM update, design, and implement • In consultation with the National Committee of Module III in areas of ministry related to com- Hispanic/Latino Ministry, design and update munity ministries; Module III workshops in areas of ministry related • In consultation and collaboration with the to developing new congregations and faith com- National Committee of the NPHLM identify munities for the transformation of the world placement opportunities for missionaries to sup- through discipleship in the name of Jesus Christ; port the work of the National Plan and recruit, • In collaboration with Global Ministries design train, commission, deploy, and accompany at and produce multimedia resources and imple- least 50 missionaries; ment workshops to train and support annual con- • Promote and administer the National Challenge ference committees responsible for Hispanic/ Fund for Hispanic Ministries; Latino ministry; • Collaborate with the National Committee of the • In collaboration with Global Ministries design NPHLM to design, test, and perfect model pro- and produce resource materials and implement grams and resources to respond to identified workshops to assist annual conferences and local needs in implementing the National Plan. church leaders in planting and strengthening new 4. The General Board of Higher Education and Hispanic/Latino congregations; Ministry shall: • Collaborate with the National Committee of the NPHLM to design, test, and perfect model pro- • In collaboration with the National Committee of grams and resources to respond to identified the NPHLM and according to guidelines estab- needs in implementing the NPHLM. lished by the National Committee, provide grants to enable consultations with the directors and fac- 3. The General Board of Global Ministries shall: ulty of the Spanish-language Course of Study • Provide a process of acompañamiento to assist schools in order to assist in the strengthening of annual conferences to develop and assess their these schools; 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1134

1134 DCA Advance Edition • In consultation with the National Committee of C. The National Committee of the NPHLM produce resources and training Hispanic/Latino Ministry opportunities on United Methodist doctrine, history, and polity as well as on the US context of 1. Organization ministry for Hispanic/Latino pastors; • We recommend that the National Committee of the • Under the direction of the National Committee of NPHLM continue to be the entity responsible for over- the NPHLM form a task force to design, test, seeing and guiding the implementation of the National implement, and evaluate at least one alternative Plan and to be composed of 15 members as follows: model of theological education for Hispanic/ Latino pastoral leaders with undergraduate • Two bishops, named by the Council of Bishops, United Methodist colleges, seminaries, and/or attending, with funds from the Episcopal Fund; training centers that facilitate these pastors’ • One representative from, and named by, MAR- movement toward ordination in The United CHA (Metodistas Asociados Representando la Methodist Church; Causa Hispano-Americana); • Design and offer Module III workshops in annual • One representative from, and named by, the Rio conferences to strengthen The United Methodist Grande Conference; Church’s understanding of Hispanic/Latino the- • One representative from, and named by, the ology, spirituality, and ethos as well as its under- Iglesia Metodista de Puerto Rico; standing of the Hispanic/Latino United Methodist • One elected board member from the general pro- community’s contribution to the overall United gram agencies: Global Ministries, General Board Methodist ethos and ministry; of Church and Society, General Board of • Collaborate with the National Committee of the Discipleship, and General Board of Higher NPHLM to design, test, and perfect model pro- Education and Ministry; all to be selected and grams and resources to respond to identified funded by their respective agencies; needs in implementing the National Plan. • Up to seven at-large members selected by the B. National Coordination National Committee of the NPHLM to reflect the varied constituency of The United Methodist To support and coordinate the implementation of Church with regard to gender, age, lay and clergy the NPHLM we recommend the continuation of a status, and Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic, national office led by a coordinator and guided by a with jurisdictional inclusiveness as well. At least national committee. Several factors make coordination one member shall be a person involved with of a national office and coordinator for the NPHLM an Brazilian ministries of The United Methodist important and necessary function. A coordinator is Church in the United States; needed to work with the four general program agencies • In addition to committee members, at least one of The United Methodist Church and all annual confer- staff person from each of the program agencies ences in the United States. A national office and coordi- who has responsibility for Hispanic/Latino nator is necessary to facilitate the interagency ministries within the general program agency collaboration required of the four program agencies for (and other staff resource persons as may be the implementation of the priorities and goals of the needed) will be invited to serve on the committee NPHLM. A national office and coordinator have also with voice but no vote, all to be selected and proven to be an essential means of resourcing annual funded by their respective agencies; conferences as they do their part to implement the • A representative from The United Methodist NPHLM in their areas. Necessary ongoing research, Publishing House, from United Methodist data collection, and analysis to undergird the church’s Communications, from the General Commission work in Hispanic/Latino ministry is best done out of on Religion and Race, and from the General such a national office under the direction of a coordina- Commission on the Status and Role of Women. tor at the national level for effective and efficient use. These latter two who will serve as monitors, We recommend that the national office and coordinator will be invited to the committee meetings, all of the NPHLM continue to be located at Global to be selected and funded by their respective Ministries. agencies. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1135

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2. Functions and Responsibilities National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry during the 2013-2016 quadrennium. This amount will be allocated • To set policy and direction for the development, to the four general program agencies (Global Ministries, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of General Board of Discipleship, General Board of the NPHLM; Church and Society, and General Board of Higher • To lead the church in the development of guide- Education and Ministry) in consultation with the lines for grants and programs for Hispanic/Latino National Committee of the NPHLM. ministries with the general agencies, seminaries, annual conferences, training centers, and others The funds allocated to the four general program responsible for implementing components of the agencies through the NPHLM with the exception of NPHLM; those funds designated for the national office, the coor- • To coordinate responses to the work of the NPHLM dinator, and the National Committee of the NPHLM, of all the general agencies and annual confer- shall be used for program initiatives to strengthen and ences and facilitate interagency collaboration; support annual conference and local church ministries • To monitor and assist in the evaluation of pro- with Hispanic/Latino peoples according to the priorities grams in Hispanic/Latino ministry by the general and criteria of the NPHLM. agencies and annual conferences; • To give direction and support to the national In order to fulfill the work of the NPHLM a office of the NPHLM; national office shall be continued with one full-time • To undertake program initiatives in response to unencumbered executive staff person, with additional identified needs in collaboration with the general staff as needed and financially possible, administratively program agencies, seminaries, training centers, placed within Global Ministries under the direction of and annual conferences and to provide final the National Committee of the NPHLM. The executive approval of the distribution of grant funds allo- shall be selected by the National Committee of the cated to the National Plan; NPHLM in consultation with Global Ministries. The • To revise the existing guidelines, as needed, for National Committee of the NPHLM will provide super- the Challenge Fund and to assist in the promotion vision for the executive of the NPHLM within the per- of the fund; sonnel policies of Global Ministries. • To promote and support the necessary ongoing research on issues affecting Hispanic/Latino A portion of the program initiatives outlined in the communities and the mission of The United NPHLM shall be funded through the budgets of the var- Methodist Church with these communities; ious general program agencies of The United Methodist • To build a strong relationship with the Holistic Church and their governing bodies including funding Plan for Latin America and the Caribbean of The for annual conferences. The following quadrennial United Methodist Church; budget reflects the major program initiatives of the • To send a representative to the United Methodist NPHLM for the 2013-2016 quadrennium. All funds Interagency Task Force on Immigration and work allocated through the NPHLM shall be designated as collaboratively with this task force; and separate line items within the general program agencies. • To make an oral report, in addition to a written report, to the 2016 General Conference of The We recommend that these funds be allocated to the United Methodist Church. general program agencies according to the responsibili- VI. QUADRENNIAL REPORT ties assigned to each, with final allocation to be determined by the National Committee of the NPHLM in We request that the 2012 General Conference consultation with the General Council on Finance and approve $3,152,788.00 for the implementation of the Administration. (See budget on next page.) 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1136

1136 DCA Advance Edition Budget 2013-2016

I. General Board of Discipleship $2,300,000.00

1. New Congregational Development 2. New Faith Communities Development

II. General Board of Church and Society $2,180,000.00

1. New Leadership and Resource Development 2. Immigration and Other Critical Social Concerns

III. General Board of Higher Education and Ministry $2,391,000.00

1. Pastoral Leadership Development and Accompaniment 2. Lay Leadership Development

IV. General Board of Global Ministries $2,381,788.00

1. Annual Conference Grants 2. Mobilization and New Leadership Development 3. Program Coordinator Office 4. Conference Hispanic/Latino Committee Training 5. Administrative Fees

Grand Total $3,152,788.00

VII. CONCLUDING REMARKS: certainly profess to believe that God welcomes all who LET US WELCOME ALL TO THE are the least among us, and calls us to open our minds, BANQUET! hearts, and doors to them. So let us be faithful to the one whom we claim as Lord and Savior and be about the With its dramatic, fast-paced changes and chal- good work of welcoming all to the banquet table of lenges, the present century represents for United God’s abundant mercy and grace. ¡Vengan todos al ban- Methodists another chance to show whether we are a quete! Let all come to the banquet! people of open minds, open hearts, and open doors and whether the least of those among us, including millions Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the of Hispanics/Latinos are people whom God and the kingdom of God. church welcome to the banquet table of God’s reign. We Luke 14:15 (New International Version) 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1137

Global Ministries 1137 Summary Report on Korean Ministry Plan: Advancing United Methodist Ministries Among Koreans

“Our vision is to integrate Wesleyan tradition and The Korean Ministry Plan includes the following Korean spirituality to make disciples of Jesus Christ for vision statement: “Our vision is to integrate Wesleyan the transformation of the world.” tradition and Korean spirituality to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” The Korean American National Plan, entitled, “Advancing United Methodist Ministries Among To achieve this vision, the Korean Ministry Plan Korean Americans,” represents the first comprehensive identified six major areas of concentration for the next nationwide mission initiative of The United Methodist quadrennium of 2013-2016: Church to develop and vitalize Korean American ministries in North America. The growth of Korean • Congregational Development: The primary focus of American United Methodist churches means growth this area is to launch new, viable congregations and then for the whole United Methodist Church! This state- nurture them to become self-sustaining churches. New ment expresses the core spirit of the Korean Ministry congregations will also be mobilized and equipped with Plan. The plan’s intention is that Korean churches and resources and training for small group ministry to ministries will be an active and integral part of the con- become agents of disciple-making. nectional life of The United Methodist Church and will make important contributions to vitalize the life, mis- • Leadership Formation: Leadership formation of sion, and ministry of the entire denomination for the clergy and laity is a vital part of the church’s sustain- glory of God. ability and growth. The purpose of leadership development is to identify, recruit, and train both current and The Korean American National Plan for the 2009- upcoming leaders. A comprehensive and focused leader- 2012 quadrennium was developed to create, nurture, and ship development strategy for small group ministry for enable communities of faith to be disciple-making min- pastors and laity will be implemented. National and istries, to be bridge builders in cross-cultural and cross- regional clergy and lay leadership training events and generational ministries, and to be agents of social projects are also supported. justice. Developing small group ministries was a key principle in this quadrennium. The Korean United • Nurturing Next Generation Ministries: The next Methodist Church accomplished this vision by focusing generation of Korean Americans is a diverse multiethnic on the development of three main areas in its churches: population, as the second and third generation of Korean • Congregational Development, Nurture, and immigrants includes more and more interracial families. Revitalization New, innovative churches and ministries are necessary • Leadership Formation to make new disciples from this growing demographic. • Next Generation Ministries Fostering young clergy and lay leadership through the Korean Ministry Plan for 2013-2016: The United support of programs and events is a key component to Methodist Council on Korean Ministries Next Generation Ministries. For the past three quadrennia, the Korean American National Plan has faithfully served The United Meth- • Developing Ministry Resources: For the Korean odist Church in strengthening Korean American min- United Methodist Church, the purpose of developing istries both within and outside the church. Recently, new ministry resources is not only to publish in Korean, however, Korean ministries have become influential but also to create culturally relevant resources. not only in the national church, but also globally. Under Resources to train new small group leaders are not only the leadership of the United Methodist Council on published in Korean, but also will be translated into Korean American Ministries, the decision was made English for use throughout The United Methodist to change the name of the “Korean American National Church. Ministry resources specific to the Korean church Plan” to the “Korean Ministry Plan” for the next qua- will be published in Korean in various areas of ministry. drennium of 2013-2016 to reflect the global nature of Continual research and updating of national data and our ministry. statistics will also be a critical source of information as 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1138

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part of developing a strategy for the future of Korean • Fostering Global Partnerships: As immigrants, the United Methodist churches. Korean American church understands the importance of being connected. Partnership with global and ecumeni- • Working with the Poor: The Korean Ministry Plan, cal organizations, especially with autonomous in partnership with other agencies and organizations, Methodist denominations will not only strengthen the will focus on justice-related ministries by providing ministries of the Korean American church, but also support for immigrants and their struggles, as well as expand the work of The United Methodist Church. advocacy for changes in immigration policy. It will also Collaboration with central conferences will also advocate the ordination of Korean Americans and other strengthen the ongoing mission work of existing Korean racial/ethnic persons. churches throughout the world. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1139

Global Ministries 1139 Report on Korean Ministry Plan: Advancing United Methodist Ministries Among Koreans

“Our vision is to integrate Wesleyan tradition and Congregational Development, Nurture, and Korean spirituality to make disciples of Jesus Christ for Revitalization the transformation of the world.” In the first quadrennium, much of our energy and The Korean American National Plan, entitled, resources were focused on developing new congrega- “Advancing United Methodist Ministries Among tions. In the second quadrennium, we continued to Korean Americans,” represents the first comprehensive develop new congregations while enabling the existing nationwide mission initiative of The United Methodist mission congregations to become self-supporting and Church to develop and vitalize Korean American min- active participants in supporting the overall mission and istries in North America. After a comprehensive four- ministry of The United Methodist Church. In the current year study on the issues, needs, and mission third quadrennium we focused on congregational devel- opportunities of the Korean American United Methodist opment and revitalization by implementing effective community, the 2000 General Conference, as well as the ministry strategies from the lessons learned during the 2004 and 2008 General Conferences, consecutively last two quadrennia. We also equipped existing churches approved the National Plan enthusiastically. For the and new congregations alike to mobilize and serve as 2013-2016 quadrennium, the Korean American National committed agents of disciple-making, equipped with the Plan will be renamed the “Korean Ministry Plan: resources and training for small group ministries. We Advancing United Methodist Ministries Among achieved these objectives as follows: Koreans” to reflect the global nature of The United Methodist Church and its ministry. • Developed 16 new Korean language ministries in The growth of Korean American United Methodist full partnership with annual conferences, juris- churches means growth for the whole United dictional Korean mission directors/superinten- Methodist Church! dents, and local Korean United Methodist con- This statement expresses the core spirit of the gregations, utilizing the principles of small group Korean Ministry Plan. The plan’s intention is that ministry. Korean churches and ministries will be an active and • Nurtured both existing and recently launched integral part of the connectional life of The United mission churches to grow both in their congrega- Methodist Church and will make important contribu- tional life and mission. tions to vitalize the life, mission, and ministry of the • Successfully implemented $1 million “Matching entire denomination for the glory of God. The Korean Fund Campaign” for new church starts. American National Plan for the 2009-2012 quadrennium • Participated in the “1,000 Church Campaign” of was developed to create, nurture, and enable communi- the National Korean Caucus of The United ties of faith to be disciple-making ministries, to be Methodist Church. bridge builders in cross-cultural and cross-generational ministries, and to be agents of social justice. Developing Leadership Formation—Small Group Ministry small group ministries was a key goal in this quadren- The Korean United Methodist Church realizes that nium. The Korean United Methodist Church (KUMC) leadership formation for clergy and laity is a vital part of accomplished this vision by focusing on the develop- a church’s sustainability and growth. Thus, during this ment of three main areas in its churches: quadrennium the Korean United Methodist Church • Congregational Development, Nurture, and developed and implemented a small group leader train- Revitalization ing resource and system (module) for pastors and laity. • Leadership Formation However, we discovered early on in the implementation • Next Generation Ministries of the National Plan that leadership formation needs to have a broad scope in its approach, since the leadership Based on these vision areas, the following specific of the Korean Ministry has become increasingly diverse strategies were implemented during the 2009-2012 quad- in terms of age, ethnic makeup, background, leadership rennium: style, and cultural orientation. Thus, a multifaceted 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1140

1140 DCA Advance Edition approach for developing leadership for small group min- Korean Ministry Plan for 2013-2016: istry is necessary. Listed below are goals we achieved to The United Methodist Council on support leadership formation: Korean Ministries For the past three quadrennia, the Korean American • Developed a comprehensive and national leader- National Plan has faithfully served The United ship development strategy for small group min- Methodist Church in strengthening Korean American istry for pastors and laity who are directly ministries both within and outside the church. Recently, involved with the Korean language ministry. however, Korean ministries have become influential not • Trained 250 pastors and 1,000 laity for small only in the national church, but also globally. Under the group ministry utilizing the published resource, leadership of the United Methodist Council on Korean Longing to Meet You: Small Group Ministry American Ministries, the decision was made to change Leadership Training. the name of the “Korean American National Plan” to the • Developed a manual and training program for “Korean Ministry Plan” for the 2013-2016 quadrennium cross-cultural ministry to support and empower a to reflect the global nature of our ministry. The Korean growing number of Korean American clergy and Ministry Plan includes the following vision statement: seminarians serving in cross-cultural appoint- “Our vision is to integrate Wesleyan tradition and ments in The United Methodist Church. Korean spirituality to make disciples of Jesus Christ for Next Generation Ministries the transformation of the world.”

The Next Generation Ministries serving second- To achieve this vision, the Korean Ministry Plan generation Korean Americans have become more multi- identified six major areas of concentration for the 2013- ethnic with the continual increase in interracial 2016 quadrennium: marriages and families in congregations. Thus, it is a blessing as well as a challenge to adjust and develop Congregational Development new strategies for effective ministry. Providing more The primary focus of this area is to launch new, support services for pastors to prevent burnout is also viable congregations and then nurture them to become essential to sustaining these congregations. self-sustaining churches. New congregations will also be mobilized and equipped with resources and training Therefore, the Korean American National Plans for for small group ministry to become agents of disciple the 2009-2012 quadrennium included the call for vigor- making. In addition to funding from the Korean ous recruitment plans to recruit and develop a new gen- Ministry Plan, a high priority is placed on forming eration of spiritual servant leaders among laity for intentional partnerships with annual conferences along ministry in The United Methodist Church. It is also crit- with Path 1, jurisdictional Korean mission directors/ ical that the next generation of leaders is equipped superintendents, and local Korean United Methodist and supported as they address these new trends. In this churches to effectively develop new congregations. light, the following strategies were developed and Leadership Formation implemented: Leadership formation of clergy and laity is a vital • Developed seven new English language congre- part of the church’s sustainability and growth. The pur- gations in full partnership with annual confer- pose of leadership development is to identify, recruit, ences, jurisdictional Korean mission directors/ and train both current and upcoming leaders. A compre- superintendents, and local Korean congregations. hensive and focused leadership development strategy • Vitalized the Transgeneration Ministry of The for small group ministry for pastors and laity will be United Methodist Church, the national coordinat- implemented. National and regional clergy and lay leading body for Next Generation clergy and laity, ership training events and projects are supported by pro- which has been in existence since 1982. viding direct funding and leadership resources, in • Strengthened Youth Initiative and launched two addition to collaboration with various ministry groups new strategic programs for developing Next such as the “Partnership Church Ministry Group” of the Generation leaders: College Initiative and national Korean American community and general pro- Children’s Ministry Initiative. gram agencies. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1141

Global Ministries 1141 Nurturing Next Generation Ministries I. Focus Area: Leadership Development The next generation of Korean Americans is a Goal 1: Small Group Ministry diverse multi-ethnic population, as the second and third generation of Korean immigrants includes more and The first goal is to implement a comprehensive more interracial families. New, innovative churches and small group leadership development strategy for pastors ministries are necessary to make new disciples from this and laity. We will seek to achieve this goal through the growing demographic. Fostering young clergy and lay following programs: leadership through the support of programs and events are a key component to Next Generation Ministries. a. Collaborate with the various ministry groups of Developing Ministry Resources the national Korean American community such as “Nexus,” “Partnership Ministry,” “Cross- For the Korean United Methodist Church, the pur- Cultural Ministry,” and the general program pose of developing new ministry resources is not only to agencies in designing and implementing clergy publish in Korean, but also to create culturally relevant and lay leadership training events and projects. and contextualized resources. Resources to train new small group leaders are not only published in Korean, b. Distribute Longing to Meet You, small group but also will be translated into English for use through- leadership training material developed by the out The United Methodist Church. Ministry resources Korean Ministry Plan. specific to the Korean church will be published in c. Provide direct funding and leadership resources Korean in various areas of ministry. Continual research for national and regional small group ministry and updating of national data and statistics will also be training. a critical source of information as part of developing a d. Provide small group ministry resources and strategy for the future of Korean United Methodist related specialized training for individual con- Churches. texts; such as clergywomen, cross-racial appointments, and English-speaking congregations. Working with the Poor Goal 2: Next Generation Ministries (YI/CI/CMI/ The Korean Ministry Plan, in partnership with Nexus Internship) other agencies and organizations, will focus on justice- related ministries by providing support for immigrants The second goal is to create and support programs and their struggles, as well as advocacy for changes in and training opportunities for Next Generation immigration policy. It will also advocate the ordination Ministries. This goal will be achieved through the fol- of Korean Americans and other racial/ethnic persons. lowing programs: Fostering Global Partnerships a. Support the Youth Initiative (YI), a national Made up of immigrants, the Korean American leadership conference for Korean American church understands the importance of being connected United Methodist Youth. to a global world. Partnership with global and ecumeni- b. Provide grants to support the training of campus cal organizations, especially with autonomous ministers and college leaders through the Methodist denominations will not only strengthen the College Initiative (CI). ministries of the Korean American church, but also c. Provide grants to support the training of chil- expand the work of The United Methodist Church. Collaboration with central conferences will also dren’s ministers and teachers through the strengthen the ongoing mission work of existing Korean Children’s Ministry Initiative (CMI). churches throughout the world. d. Support the Nexus Ministry and the Nexus Internship Program, a national coordinating Korean Ministry Plan Goals for 2013-2016 body for Next Generation clergy and laity, The Korean Ministry Plan goals for 2013-2016 which also administers the internship program reflect three of the four focus areas of The United for college students and seminarians. Methodist Church: Leadership Development, Church e. Continue to nurture the national and regional Growth, and Ministry with the Poor. The following are network groups for the Next Generation pastors the nine goals of the new Korean Ministry Plan. and seminarians, as well as campus ministries. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1142

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Goal 3: Effective Leadership for Clergy and Laity 1, the “1,000 Church Campaign,” and local con- (Clergywomen, Cross-Racial, Lay Leadership) gregations to locate sites, raise funds, and iden- The third goal is to nurture effective clergy and lay tify pastors for new church plants. leadership through existing national networks, including b. Develop new Korean language ministries based clergywomen, pastors serving in cross-racial appoint- on the principles of small group ministry. ments, and the National Network of Korean United c. Provide direct support to new congregations as Methodist Women. This goal will be achieved through they develop innovative methods to grow both the following objectives: in their congregational life and mission. Provide small group training materials for free to new a. Utilize existing national networks to further church plants. Train clergy as well as lay leaders develop training for clergywomen and clergy in small group ministry to start new congrega- serving in cross-racial appointments (National tions. Association of Korean American Clergywomen d. Nurture the new mission congregations and and National Association of Korean American existing mission congregations to become self- United Methodist Pastors Serving Cross-Racial sustaining within a short period of time. Appointments). e. Develop community outreach and justice min- b. Develop Korean female lay leadership through istry opportunities for local churches by provid- collaboration with the National Korean United ing appropriate resources. Methodist Women. Goal 6: Plant New English-Speaking c. Implement mentoring programs for clergywomen Congregations and newly ordained clergy serving cross-racial appointments. The sixth goal is to plant seven new English-speaking Korean American congregations in partnership with Goal 4: Transformational Leadership (Conflict the annual conferences, jurisdictional Korean mission Transformation, Academy for Spiritual Formation, Pastor’s School) directors/superintendents, and local congregations. The goal will be achieved through the following programs: The fourth goal is to develop effective leadership in the Korean church through clergy and lay leadership a. Partner with annual conferences, jurisdictional training programs that nurture spiritual growth and Korean mission directors/superintendents, and enable healthy church development. We will seek to local congregations to locate sites, raise funds, achieve this goal through the following programs: and identify pastors for each church. b. Provide direct support to new congregations as a. Develop an effective pastor’s school program in they develop innovative methods to grow both in partnership with the Korean National Caucus. their congregational life and mission. b. Develop a task force and provide leadership to c. Strengthen existing Next Generation congrega- develop a conflict transformation training course tions and foster growth for present ministries to encourage the ministry of reconciliation. that are already established and in place. Design c. Develop a task force and provide leadership in consultation teams to provide support for the partnership with the Upper Room for the devel- local Next Generation churches. opment of the Academy for Spiritual Formation. Goal 7: Ministry Resource Development II. Focus Area: Church Growth The seventh goal is to develop culturally relevant Goal 5: Plant New Korean-Speaking ministry resource materials and national data on Korean Congregations (New Church Starts) American United Methodist churches and pastors. This The fifth goal is to plant 12 new Korean ministry goal will be achieved through the following programs: congregations in partnership with annual conferences, jurisdictional Korean mission directors/superintendents, a. Continue to revise and improve small group and local congregations. The goal will be achieved resources that are culturally sensitive to the through the following programs: Korean American faith community. Translate the small group resource, Longing to Meet You, into a. Partner with annual conferences, jurisdictional English to be utilized by a wider range of faith Korean mission directors/superintendents, Path communities. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1143

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b. Support and provide leadership for publication b. Plant new churches and start new mission proj- of ministry resources in Korean in areas such as ects internationally through a partnership with worship, new member classes, early morning global ecumenical organizations and autonomous prayer, tithing, fundraising, spiritual gift dis- Methodist denominations in Latin America, cernment, and church website development. Southeast Asia, and Korea. Promote further connection to The United c. Collaborate with central conferences with exist- Methodist Church through a Korean version of ing Korean congregations by initiating a rela- UMC 101. tionship and providing resources to strengthen c. Support national database to help all clergyper- Korean United Methodist faith communities sons connect. throughout the world. d. Maintain ministry resource website for all of the Korean American ministries in the United States APPENDIX I: NEW CHURCH STARTS and beyond. (2009-2012) III. Focus Area: Ministry with the Poor I. New Korean Language Ministries Goal 8: Justice Ministry in the Context of • Beautiful Korean United Methodist Mission Emerging Needs (Honolulu, Hawaii) The eighth goal is to engage the church in justice- • Broken Builders Ministries (New York, New related ministries such as immigration issues by pro- York) viding support for immigrants and their struggles, as • Federal Way Korean United Methodist Church well as advocacy for changes in immigration policy. We (Federal Way, Washington) will seek to achieve these goals through the following • Hesperia Korean United Methodist Church objectives: (Hesperia, California) • Huntsville Korean United Methodist Church a. Seek collaboration with other agencies and (Huntsville, Alaska) organizations like the General Commission on • Jesus-Love Korean United Methodist Church of Religion and Race, General Board of Church Chicago (Skokie, Illinois) and Society, and the United Methodist Task • Korean Central United Methodist Church Force on Immigration that focus on ministries (Frisco, Texas) with immigrants. • Korean Church of Cumming, United Methodist b. Build awareness of immigrant issues. Develop Church (Cumming, Georgia) partnerships to provide education programs at • Korean Church of Norcross (Norcross, Georgia) least once a year focusing on immigration issues • Korean United Methodist Church of Fayetteville emerging in the United States for the Korean (Fayetteville, North Carolina) American community. • Lighthouse Korean United Methodist Church of c. Support local congregations that have immi- Philadelphia (Glenside, Pennsylvania) grant-focused ministries. Collect and share • Los Angeles Gospel United Methodist Mission resources available to assist undocumented (Los Angeles, California) immigrants, especially within the Korean • New Life Mission United Methodist Church American community. (Findlay, Ohio) d. Advocate the ordination of Korean Americans • Rapid City Korean United Methodist Church and other racial/ethnic persons. (Rapid City, South Dakota) Goal 9: Global Partnerships • Temecula Korean United Methodist Church The ninth goal is to develop new relationships with (Temecula, California) organizations globally, to expand the ministry of the • Wesley Korean United Methodist Church Korean Ministry Plan beyond the United States. This (Charlotte, North Carolina) goal will be achieved through the following objectives: II. Next Generation Ministries a. Develop and sustain relationships with global • Bell Memorial United Methodist Church Next and ecumenical organizations, especially with Generation Congregation (Rowland Heights, autonomous Methodist denominations. California) 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1144

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• Bible Korean United Methodist Church Next no vote). Representatives from the general program Generation Congregation (Dix Hills, New York) agencies and other related agencies of The United • Emmaus United Methodist Church at Stratford Methodist Church: bishops representing South Central Hills English Ministry (Richmond, Virginia) Jurisdiction and Southeastern Jurisdiction. One each • Good Seed United Methodist Church Next from General Board of Global Ministries, General Generation Congregation (Fairview, Texas) Board of Discipleship, General Board of Higher • Journey Together Community Church (Wheeling, Education and Ministry, General Board of Church and Illinois) Society, General Commission on Religion and Race, • Korean Central United Methodist Church Next The United Methodist Publishing House, and United Generation Congregation (Prospect Heights, Methodist Communications who shall attend at the Illinois) expense of their respective agencies. • Korean United Methodist Church of South Florida Next Generation Congregation (Fort 5 Jurisdictional Korean Mission Superintendents Lauderdale, Florida) 1 NFAAUM APPENDIX II: ORGANIZATION (2013-2016) 6 Total members Program Area Ministry Teams Council Members 7 Congregational Development 3 Bishops named by the Council of Bishops 7 Leadership Development 1 Executive Director (ex-officio) 5 Next Generation Ministry 2 Representatives of National Association of Korean American United Methodists 3 Program Area Ministry Team Coordinators 19 Total members 1 Representative of National Association of Pastors Executive Committee Serving in Cross-Cultural Appointments 1 Chair 1 Representative of the National Korean American Transgeneration Ministry 2 Vice-Chairs: program/finance 1 Representative of National Association of Korean 3 Program Area Coordinators American Clergywomen Association 1 Ex-Officio: Executive Director (staff—no vote) 1 Representative of the National Korean United 2 Members at Large: Methodist Women 1 National Caucus 1 Representative of the National Korean United 1 Clergywoman Methodist Men 2 Laity (1 male and 1 female) chosen by the 9 Total members Council of Bishops At large members, if needed Funding Review Committee

16 Total members 1 Chair 3 Program Area Coordinators Resource Persons 1 Ex-Officio: Executive Director (staff—no vote) The following resource/liaison persons are invited to attend the council meetings as needed (with voice but 5 Total members 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1145

Global Ministries 1145 Report on the Asian-American Language Ministry Study 2009–2012

Preamble Four years later, the Asian-American Language Ministry Study petition 21344-GM-NonDis-0$ was On May 10, 1869, the first transcontinental railroad passed in committee 107 to 0, with 1 abstention was completed, joining the Central and Union Pacific (Calendar Item 441, General Conference 1996—Denver, Railroads in Promontory Summit, Utah. Missing from Colorado). This national plan for reaching existing and the commemorative photos taken that day are the esti- newly forming Asian immigrant and refugee communi- mated 25,500 Chinese workers who labored for $26 to ties focused on four areas of development: (1) recruit- $35 a month, 12 hours a day, 6 days a week to see this ment and training of pastoral and lay leadership; (2) new gargantuan feat accomplished. congregations; (3) community ministries; and (4) language resources and materials. The amount of $900,000 This blip in US history reflects the very microcosm was allocated toward the development and implementa- that is the United States itself in relation to the whole of tion of these programs and ministries over the next quad- human history. Which is to say that this event holds in tension what has always been in tension: boundaries rennium. of inclusion and exclusion (who gets to be in the picture?), questions of human dignity and worth (what is Since 1996, successive General Conferences (2000, the actual value of a laborer in the field?), and the basic 2004, and 2008) have continued their support of struggle to define what it means to pursue the common AALM’s national plan advocating on behalf of the Asian good (who is my brother? my sister? and am I his or her immigrant and growing refugee populations. Repre- keeper?). senting 10 ethnic subgroups (Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Formosan, Hmong, Japanese, Korean, Lao, This report of the Asian-American Language South Asian, and Vietnamese) and 15 different language Ministry (AALM) Study is shared in the hope that it will groups, the work of AALM continues to be administered help expand the photo album of the United Methodist through the General Board of Global Ministries family, speaking to the challenges of dignity and worth (GBGM) in conjunction with the National Federation of faced by Asian immigrants and refugees and to the gifts Asian-American United Methodists (NFAAUM). Asian Americans bring to the part of the body of Christ Essential Questions we call The United Methodist Church. A resolution arose from the floor of the 2008 “Chín ngu’oi, mu’oi y´,” states a Vietnamese Virginia Annual Conference calling for 250 new faith proverb—“Nine people, ten ideas.” Together we will communities to be planted in the next 30 years. This ini- always be more than the sum of our parts. tiative was given the name “All Things New.” Its challenge? To restore vitality and purpose to the church as Background we reach more people, more young people, and more On May 7, 1992, by a vote of 94 to 5 (with 6 absten- diverse people . . . all for Jesus. tions), petition GM-12225-3000-M$ received recommendation for concurrence by General Conference What is happening in the Virginia Annual committee action. This petition called for the formation Conference is not an isolated event. The “Call to Action” of a National Study Committee for Asian-American report and recommendations before this General Language Ministries. This committee would examine, as Conference speak to the reality that change is afoot. stated in the petition, “certain misunderstandings, prob- There are fundamental re-examinations taking place. lems, and challenges” born of “different languages and And such soul searching is not uniquely Methodist; it is cultures,” to be followed by immediate and appropriate taking place in all facets of life throughout our now recommendations to better enable the Church to reach a global, economic, political, and religious landscape. fast-growing population of Asian immigrants and refugees with greater faithfulness and fecundity And so the Asian-American Language Ministry (Calendar Item 573, General Conference 1992— Study must be asking fundamental questions of its own Louisville, Kentucky). work: 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1146

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• What has changed in the dynamics and needs of is given the opportunity to hear and respond, what Asian immigrant communities and of successive might the Church have to add or learn from this event? generations since 1992? • Are there still “certain misunderstandings, prob- • 14.7 million = The number of US residents who lems, and challenges” born of “different lan- identified as Asian Alone (another 2.6 million guages and cultures” requiring the care and identified as Asian in Combination with one or attention of the General Conference? more other ethnicity); • Where are Asian Americans in the national por- • 4.8% = The percentage of total US population trait today? What challenges to dignity and worth that is Asian Alone (5.7% when combined with are Asian immigrants still facing? And what have Asian in Combination); Asian Americans brought to the building and • 43.3% = The percentage increase in numbers of strengthening of the common table? US residents who identified as Asian Alone from 2000 to 2010 (by comparison, the Hispanic/ For news of the heart ask the face, according to one Latino community grew by 43%, Black or Cambodian saying. We may look different in our fea- African Americans by 12.3%, and Whites by tures, sound different in our tongues; still our expres- 5.7%); sions of laughter and tears are all very human. • 11% = The percentage of counties in the US where ethnic minorities make up more than 50% First we look to the physical reality of Asian immi- of the population; grants and refugees and to their successive generations • 40.6 million = The projected number of US resi- here in the United States. Then we examine the condi- dents in 2050 that will identify themselves as tion of their hearts. Asian or of Asian descent (comprising 9% of the The 2010 US Census total US population). Any statistician will confess to the fundamental Note: Asians represent the largest un-churched limit of their discipline: knowing the numbers doesn’t people groups in the world (consider China and India). equate to knowing the story. That’s where theologians What needs to change if we are to be faithful to Christ’s come in! commission to make disciples of all nations, especially when the nations are migrating to the United States? Nevertheless, here are some interesting figures What would it look like to respond to “the harvest is from the 2010 Census (with the occasional theological plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord aside), all of which can be found at http://2010. of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest”? census.gov/2010census/: • $68,780 = The median household income for • 3 = The number of Asian languages 2010 Census Asians in 2009, highest among all people groups questionnaires were available in: Chinese, (this number varied greatly, however, between Vietnamese, and Korean; Asian subgroups; e.g., Indian Americans made • 13 = The number of Asian languages 2010 $90,429 while Bangladeshi Americans made Census ads were in: Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin $46,657); and Cantonese), Hindi, Hmong, Japanese, • 12.5% = The rate of poverty for Asians in 2009, Khmer, Korean, Laotian, Tagalog, Thai, Urdu, up from 10.6% in 2007 (the national poverty rate and Vietnamese; in 2009 was 14.3%); • 19 = The number of Asian languages 2010 • 50% = The percentage of Asians, age 25 and Census Language Assistance Guides were in: older, who have a bachelor’s degree or higher Bengali, Burmese, Cebuano, and Chinese (compared to 25% for all US residents 25 and (Traditional and Simplified), Hindi, Hmong, older); Ilocano, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Laotian, Malayalam, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Urdu, Note: The perception is that Asian Americans are and Vietnamese. doing well relative to other immigrant and ethnic groups. The reality is more complex. Internally, what Note: Should the US Census be interpreted as a would it mean for Asian groups who have experienced Pentecost event, where “each in their native language” seasons of stability, vitality, and growth to be 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1147

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kyoudai/shimai (Japanese for “brothers/sisters”) to 4% of the total population). What would it mean for those who are struggling and still adjusting to life within United Methodists to see each new Chinese-American the United States? Externally, what would it mean for church plant as not only ministering to the needs of the Asian Americans to see themselves as ashirvad (Hindi local ethnic community but as serving the missional for “a blessing”) to the whole United Methodist Church purpose of effectively sharing good news with family, and for all United Methodists to receive and see those of relatives, friends, and peers back in China? In a global diverse cultural backgrounds as needed and necessary community where immigrants frequently travel to and for the vitality and health of the Church universal? fro, each Asian-American faith community bringing a person or family to faith is at the same time growing a The Hmong people tell the story of a Flood that missionary who will impact additional lives overseas. destroys all life except for a brother and sister pair. They Filipino Caucus (The Rev. Dr. Vivencio L. Vinluan, must restart the human race. And in order to do so they Chair of the Centennial Project, National produce a child. But this child looks more like an egg. Association of Filipino-American United And when it’s cut into pieces, each piece gives birth to Methodists) a new tribe of people. But not only people. All manner of life is produced from this egg-child. And so, the The Asian-American Language Ministry is a mis- world is filled anew. The 2010 US Census paints the sional success story with Filipino Americans. It has had face of a nation increasingly diverse in its features. Our a tremendous impact upon our narrative as a community theological challenge will be to engage this diversity of faith—in the growth of our awareness, in our contin- with openness, humility, and mutual love, holding to the uing process of becoming partners in ministry within biblical truth that all sons and daughters are beloved of The United Methodist Church instead of objects of mis- God. sion, in broadening the boundaries of our growth in numbers, and in determining the quality of Filipinos’ Conditions of the Heart presence in and through churches within the connection To know the heart of the Asian-American commu- in the United States. nity, one needs to simply listen. Here then are their stories, each in her or his own voice. When we use the term “narrative” we mean a consistent, collective, and coherent self-awareness of Chinese Caucus (Pastor Puong Ong Lau) Filipino Americans as a significant presence in The The Rev. Fuxia Wang grew up in mainland China as United Methodist Church in America. Given the pecu- an atheist and became a Christian while pursuing her liar demographics that show the preponderant presence master’s degree at the University of Central Oklahoma. of Filipino Americans in the West and in some major She became a Christian through an invitation to attend cities on the Eastern seaboard, it was and is the AALM the United Methodist Chinese Ministry in Edmond, that made possible the creation of a cohesive sense of Oklahoma. Wang received a calling to full-time ministry wholeness that now exists. Now that sense of cohesive- and is now a missionary with the General Board of ness encompasses not just the major population centers Global Ministries, serving as a Church and Community of the West and the Eastern seaboard but across the Worker with the Chinese community in Norman and country as a whole. South Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She is the first missionary from mainland China to be commissioned by There are several ways in which AALM has made Global Ministries. Following her own coming to faith, this possible for Filipino Americans. One is the advent Rev. Wang was also able to bring her family members of the Biennial Convocations undertaken by the back in China to Christ. National Association of Filipino-American United Methodists. These events are occasions in which AALM The story of Rev. Wang is just one example of how has partnered with us as a community of faith in devel- the support of the Asian-American Language Ministry oping principled leaders, finding creative and innovative not only brought Wang to become a Christian but also approaches to ministry, recruiting and inspiring empow- brought many of her family members in China to Christ ered pastoral leaders and equipping lay people in as well. becoming effective disciples, and making disciples of Jesus Christ. This impact (of AALM) on Filipino Note: The actual number of Christians in China is Americans is even more significant because of the unknown, estimated at 10–54 million people (less than absence of any other significant means of resource. This 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1148

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is similar to what Hispanics and Korean Americans have bu. We have about 740 members at Wesley UMC and in their respective specialized programs—resourcing about 40 of them are Nichigo members. The English- under the General Conference mandates that have been speaking members support the Nichigo-bu, because they ongoing now for several quadrennia. were and are their parents and grandparents (the Nisei and Issei). But many Japanese-American churches no The benefit that AALM has made possible, and longer have a Nichigo-bu. One of my duties is to help continues to make possible, to Filipino Americans ulti- and serve not only the Japanese-speaking members at mately also redounds to the benefit of the whole con- Wesley but all those in the San Francisco Bay Area who nection. To the extent that Filipino Americans are have no Japanese-speaking pastor at their local church. enabled and empowered, the whole connection is blessed by a vibrancy of witness in Filipino Americans’ The Japanese ministry is not without its share of deepened participation in the church’s total ministry. problems, but it also has great potential. There are many Japanese-speaking people and young families outside of Note: Filipino-American ministries annually hold our church in San Jose and in the San Francisco Bay what is called the “Christmas Institute” for their youth Area. These Japanese Americans and more recent immi- and young adults. They serve as bridging places, where grants are interested in Japanese programs for their chil- challenges of culture, language, and generational con- dren, such as our Japanese storytelling program. Even flicts are framed by theological principles and discus- though some of them will go back to Japan in a few sions, where biblical truths and teachings engage with years, we can seed the gospel. Japanese people have present socioeconomic-political realities faced by both more opportunities to go to church here in the US than the United States and the Philippines. What would it in Japan. We need to find ways to reach out to them look like for The United Methodist Church to invest in here. future generations of Filipino-American young adults and in children of immigrants, for the sake of equipping Before World War II, American Methodist mission- and preparing them to be: reconcilers and healers of aries went to Japan to spread the gospel; now Japanese divisions in the world, bridges connecting personal missionaries come to the US to serve Japanese-speaking piety and social holiness, and astute learners and disci- congregations. But the number of both American and ples of a renewed practical theology speaking to the real Japanese missionaries is decreasing. Though the chal- challenges of the day? lenge is difficult, I believe Japanese ministry can find a new way of going and growing still. Japanese Caucus (Pastor Michiko Nishinosono, Associate Pastor, Wesley UMC, San Jose; a missionary of the UCCJ) Note: Though there are as many Japanese-speaking immigrants coming into the United States today as there I came from the United Church of Christ in Japan were a hundred years ago, when Japanese-American as a missionary to serve at Wesley UMC in San Jose. Methodist Churches were growing, there are only two Wesley UMC is in Japantown, one of three remaining full-time Japanese-language (Nichigo-bu) pastors in Japantowns in the United States. There is a monument The UMC today. What would it mean for us to invest in on the main street on which we can read some words in developing and equipping bilingual pastors and church English and Japanese. They are words that the Issei planters, such as Pastor Michiko Nishinosono, to live (first-generation Japanese Americans) used to say: out the Pentecost vision of enabling all God’s people to “KANSHA—gratitude,” “GAMAN—perseverance,” hear and receive the good news in their native lan- “KODOMO NO TAME NI—for the children’s sake.” guage? Many Issei immigrants and Nisei (second generation) worked hard as farmers, without vacations. Some were Vietnamese Caucus (Pastor Cuong M. Nguyen, Chair of the Vietnamese National Caucus) incarcerated in concentration camps during World War II. We can see their lives of hardship when we look at During the past quadrennium, there have been these words on the monument. many notable benchmarks reached by the Vietnamese National Caucus: Wesley UMC was built by these Issei in 1895. The Nichigo-bu (Japanese-speaking service) was for these • Sending of two mission teams to Malaysia, one first Issei and subsequent Nisei. Now, the English- by a young adult group in 2008, the other by a speaking service has become bigger than the Nichigo- youth group in 2009; 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1149

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• Running of an Academy for Methodist Clergy in There is one additional story to be shared. This past 2009 at Wesley UMC in San Diego, California; quadrennium saw the development and start of an effort • Support and installation of a Methodist Center in to bring Asian-American young adults from all 10 Asian Saigon, Vietnam; ethnic subgroups together in worship, study, and fellow- • Annual support of the Good Samaritan Medical ship. Designated the Asian-American Young Adult Mission; Ministry, this effort gathered the young adult children of • Final phase of the “New Vietnamese Methodist parents with both long and short immigrant histories. It Hymnal” project, begun in 2007; represented groups labeled “model minority,” and • New ministries in Minneapolis, Minnesota; groups labeled “refugee.” And above all, it represented a Atlanta, Georgia; Seattle, Washington; and Las mix of nations who had long histories of division, war, Vegas, Nevada; and strife with each another, covering thousands of • Revitalization of Good Shepherd UMC in years of history. Westminster, California; and a satellite ministry on the way in San Marcos, California. And yet, in Christ, we discovered a common faith, a shared language, and a mutual love. And in our diverse And there is much being envisioned and planned stories and narratives of immigration and “bi-” this and for: “bi” that, we discovered we were all God’s children, different in features, yet common in our expressions of • The creation of a Vietnamese National Ministry hope and longing for God’s good purpose to be more to focus on developing effective ministries and more realized in and through our lives. among Vietnamese communities of faith; hence freeing the Vietnamese National Caucus to focus AALM is committed to the belief that our differ- its energies on matters of advocacy; ences, as meaningful as they may be, are not and should • The establishment of a Vietnamese Methodist not be barriers to our shared humanity renewed in Academy, with the purpose of training new lead- Christ. At the same time, we affirm that our differences ers (lay speakers, certified lay speakers, certified can be and are the very gifts we bring unto one another, lay ministers, and local pastors) in the Vietnamese that the fullness of God’s creativity might be redeemed language. not in part, but in whole. May God continue to keep and bless all the ministries of The United Methodist Church. Note: As with the “New Vietnamese Methodist Asian-American Language Ministry Study Hymnal” project, Rev. Bau Dang recently completed a Committee: 16-year project translating the Bible into Vietnamese, and is awaiting permission from the Vietnamese govern- Mr. Donald L. Hayashi, Chairperson ment for its publication and print in Vietnam. Similarly, Rev. Saman Nget the Hmong Hymnal is now being used in Laos and other Rev. David Kann parts of Southeast Asia. Asian-American Methodists and Rev. Puong Ong Lau Methodist churches are not only equipping ethnic min- Rev. Peter Lau istries here within the United States, but are impacting Ms. Laddie Perez-Galang lives thousands of miles away in urban and rural com- Ms. Ruby Bago munities in Asia. How can we continue to support this Mr. Patrick Huang work of seeing the gospel preached unto the “ends of the Rev. Danny Huang earth”? Rev. Toa T. Thao Rev. Tsuchue Vang Conclusion Rev. Mariellen Yoshino These are some of the many stories which you, Rev. Michico Nishinosono members of the General Conference, made possible this Rev. Gloria H. Kymn past quadrennium, by your prayers, presence, gifts, Rev Paul Thongsouk Tran service, and witness. And the 10 ethnic subgroups are Rev. Sonxay Chanthasone deeply grateful for your partnership, and for entrusting Rev. Timothy Rathod with us the joy and shared mission of making disciples Rev. Jacob S. Dharmaraj of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We Rev. Bau Ngoc Dang are indeed reaching the whole world together. Rev. Cuong M. Nguyen 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1150

1150 DCA Advance Edition Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the Caribbean Special Program

Introduction LAC. Numerous detailed reports presented by all the entities represented related to both country and church Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the contexts were revised and discussed. Other matters of Caribbean Special Program (Holistic LAC) was initiated great interest for the region including the General in accordance with paragraph 703.10 of The Book of Conference-mandated Study on the Worldwide Nature of Discipline, 2008 and approved by General Conference The United Methodist Church and The Call to Action: in 2008 as stated in the DCA, Calendar Item Number Reordering the Life of the Church effort of the Council 604, p. 2165, petition GM52-NonDis-N!. The petition of Bishops and the Connectional Table of The UMC calls for The UMC to pay close attention to the critical were discussed on several occasions. Matters pertaining needs in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and to to the Standing Committee on Central Conference respond to the missional opportunities that are present Matters in regard to LAC were also pondered upon. there. The legislation also calls for The UMC to include Some feedback was offered on these matters to the in its top priorities mission and ministry efforts that appropriate bodies in the spirit of connectionalism and respond to the growing number of impoverished per- partnership. A report to the Connectional Table on the sons—with women and children being the most developments of the work of the Coordinating Group affected—as the social and economic situations in many was presented as well during the quadrennium. countries in the region continue to be critical. Administration and Gatherings Once some basic context information was shared, an initial strategic plan process was pursued. Program- Holistic LAC was presided over by Bishop Peter D. matic priorities were established and a coordinated set Weaver of the Boston Episcopal Area on behalf of the of strategic directions were agreed upon especially in Council of Bishops. Global Ministries provided admin- areas of communication, leadership development, and istrative oversight and program and financial support. sharing of resources.

The Holistic LAC Coordinating Group gathered The primary outcomes intended by the Holistic together during the 2009-2012 quadrennium on a regu- LAC legislation 2008 that were fulfilled included: lar basis as it was proposed in its implementation strategy. The Coordinating Group mostly met before the 1. Organization of a group to gather periodically meeting of the Council of Bishops of The UMC for for mission and ministry coordination in the stewardship and connection purposes. Representatives region (Holistic Coordinating Group); from the following program-related general agencies 2. Programmatic connections with the “Committee participated: Church and Society, Discipleship, Global on Study on the Relationship with the Ministries, and Higher Education and Ministry. Latin Autonomous Churches in Latin America and the American and Caribbean representatives from the Caribbean” were established; Council of Evangelical Methodist Churches in Latin 3. A sacred space was created in which matters of America and the Caribbean (CIEMAL) and the Methodist mission and ministry related to the LAC pro- Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) par- moted a deeper awareness of the challenges and ticipated as well. Other United Methodist entities such possibilities within the region; as United Methodist Communications and Methodists 4. Programmatic priorities and coordinate strategic Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic- directions were established for the rest of the Americans (MARCHA) were also part of the gatherings. quadrennium and for the future, especially in Work of the Holistic LAC Coordinating areas of communication, leadership develop- Group ment, and sharing of resources. Recommendation: The Holistic LAC Coordinating group processed information on the current realities in LAC. It also a. That General Conference continues the Holistic assessed the involvement of the general agencies in Strategy on Latin America and the Caribbean 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1151

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Special Program into the next quadrennium and facilitate the participation of the representatives that the Coordinating Group continue to meet from Latin America and the Caribbean. regularly under the coordination of the General Board of Global Ministries. Respectfully submitted, b. That the Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the Caribbean Special Program be granted Bishop Peter D. Weaver, Holistic LAC Chair administrative funding at the level of $25,000 to Rev. Jorge L. F. Domingues, Global Ministries 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1152

1152 DCA Advance Edition Summary of Quadrennial Report of the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund

For more than 30 years the earth has been devas- before General Conference starts. All delegates and vis- tated by the global health crisis known as HIV and itors are invited to attend. AIDS. During those 30 years, almost 30 million men, women, and children have died. Even today more than In an effort to continue education throughout the 30 million persons around the world are living with HIV denomination, as well as to raise $5 million more for and AIDS. Too often they are ignored, stigmatized, and HIV and AIDS programs around the world, UMGAF abandoned, as lepers were in Jesus’ time. The United has kicked off a new initiative, 20/20: Visioning an Methodist Global AIDS Fund (UMGAF) is working to AIDS-Free World. Perfect 20/20 vision requires more end this epidemic. Is your church willing to spend at than seeing; it requires action. This initiative is a way for least 30 minutes addressing this pandemic? United Methodists and their friends to act on eradicating HIV and AIDS. Your prayers give hope to those people The General Conference of 2004 approved the cre- infected with and affected by HIV. A gift of $20 can stop ation of a United Methodist Global AIDS Fund to raise the transmission of HIV from a mother to a child, keep financial support for ministries of education, advocacy, parents alive to avoid children raising themselves, and overcoming stigma, care giving, and prevention, with teach young people and others how to prevent HIV. the goal of working toward an AIDS-free world. Persons attending 2012 General Conference can Advance Special #982345 was established through the General Board of Global Ministries and each take action toward an AIDS-free world by voting to jurisdictional annual conference was asked to set a con- approve resolutions that: tribution goal of $1 for every member within the conference. Conferences responded with amazing 1) Reauthorize the United Methodist Global AIDS results. To date more than $3 million has been raised, Fund and Committee, surpassing the goal proposed in the original legislation. 2) Support the 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free In the years ahead we hope to raise at least $5 million World fundraising initiative. This calls for: more. 2) a) each church spending at least 30 minutes talking about HIV and AIDS, Along with fundraising UMGAF is also dedicated 2) b) encouraging the 2016 and 2020 General to education and advocacy. Since 2008 UMGAF hosted Conferences to spend at least 30 minutes three different Conferences: Lighten the Burden III, focused on what United Methodists are Seminary HIV/AIDS Colloquium, and African- doing about HIV and AIDS, and American Women & HIV/AIDS Conference. The next 2) c) inviting each United Methodist to give $20 or conference, Lighten the Burden IV, will occur April 23, more from now until 2020 to help eradicate 2012, at Hyde Park UMC in Tampa Bay, Florida, the day HIV and AIDS. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1153

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For more than 30 years the an international conference on HIV and AIDS, which earth has been devastated by led to the development of leader networks and programs the global health crisis known for prevention through Advance Special projects. The as HIV and AIDS. During Mutti AIDS Fund made grants to support pioneering those 30 years, almost 30 mil- responses in the United States. lion men, women and children have died. Even today more It was not until 2004, however, that the General than 30 million persons around the world are living with Conference established a major fundraising effort aimed HIV and AIDS. Too often they are ignored, stigmatized at supporting projects in every conference in the global and abandoned, as lepers were in Jesus’ time. Is your connection as well as with ecumenical partners. church willing to spend at least 30 minutes addressing this pandemic? Christ’s Healing Mission United Methodists believe that “the mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world.” (Book of Discipline, ¶ 121)

With deep compassion, Jesus reached out to bring healing and wholeness to those who had great need. The Gospel of Mark reports that he began his ministry by calming one with a disturbed spirit, cooling the fever of Working Toward an Peter’s mother-in-law, and delivering a man from the AIDS-Free World pain and stigma of leprosy. Jesus called disciples to continue a healing ministry, always avoiding stigmatizing The General Conference of 2004 approved the cre- and discrimination. ation of a United Methodist Global AIDS Fund to raise financial support for ministries of education, advocacy, As Christians, United Methodists continue in the overcoming stigma, care giving, and prevention, with footsteps of Jesus and his first disciples. We, too, are the goal of working towards an AIDS-free world. committed to a ministry of healing. During the current quadrennium the four foci for witness and service have Advance Special #982345 was established through been identified. One of those is “Global Health” and the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund is a vital dimen- the General Board of Global Ministries and each juris- sion of this church initiative. dictional annual conference was asked to set a contribution goal of at least $1 for every member within the Early United Methodist Steps conference. Conferences responded with amazing results. To date more than $3 million has been raised, Early in the pandemic The United Methodist surpassing the goal proposed in the original legislation. Church took steps to create an educational ministry to In the years ahead we hope to raise at least $5 million raise awareness and provide facts for understanding the more. virus. The General Board of Discipleship created informational pieces for use in Sunday schools and with Of money raised, 25 percent may be kept by annual youth groups. The Board of Global Ministries sponsored conferences to support a variety of ministries within 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1154

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their bounds. Each annual conference was authorized to * Lighten the Burden and other issue-oriented create a committee for guiding efforts of heightening conferences. awareness, raising funds, and distributing grants. The Lighten the Burden conferences began in 2006. An interagency committee, The Global AIDS Fund The initial event was held in Washington, DC with Committee, oversees the fundraising effort and processes approximately 150 persons in attendance. A second, grant requests. Dr. Donald E. Messer serves as the one-day event in Ft. Worth, TX, was sponsored the day Coordinator of the Committee for the current quad- before the 2008 General Conference which brought 70 rennium. Other members are: John Culp, Diane Degnan, United Methodists from around the globe to learn about Earlene Gladney (now deceased), Oliver Green, Kim AIDS and how the church can make a difference. From Jenkins, Patricia Magyar, Molly McEntire, Kent these events, participants committed to serve as AIDS Millard, Bishop Fritz Mutti, Etta Mae Mutti, Ida Powell, Ambassadors, which are volunteer advocates for posi- Shane Stanford, and Linda Bales Todd. Other resource tive public policies and fund levels that make possible persons are Eduardo Campana, Michael Christensen, the care, treatment, and prevention of AIDS. Bridget Hayes, Greg Jenks, Caroline W. Njuki, and 2009-2012 QUADRENNIUM Judith Santiago. (Names of clergy are in italics.) Lighten the Burden III . . . Dallas

In 2010 United Methodist bishops and their The third international AIDS conference sponsored spouses witnessed to the importance of getting tested for by the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund Committee HIV at their meeting in Columbus, Ohio. By encourag- was held October 14-16, 2010, in Dallas, TX. The 170 ing that everyone should know their HIV status, they participants from around the globe were energized for sought to promote treatment and overcome stigma and action through keynote presentations, workshops, and worship. fear. Betty Wandabula, wife of East Africa Area Bishop Daniel Wandabula, declared that “Christ would want me Featured speakers included: Dr. Musa W. Dube, to be here today. Even if people discover they have the theologian and biblical scholar, University of Botswana; disease, the church will stand with them. Christ loves Dr. Pauline Muchina, senior partnership adviser, them with or without the disease.” UNAIDS; Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño, episcopal leader of the Desert Southwest Annual Conference; Jeffrey Crowley, director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy; and Rev. Dr. Tyrone Gordon, St. Luke Community UMC, Dallas. (Names of clergy are in italics.)

Conference workshop sessions included: “Looking at AIDS through Cultural Contexts,” “AIDS & Communities of Color—How can the church respond?” “Resourcing Local Churches & Annual Conference AIDS Ministries,” and “Intersection of AIDS and Family Planning.”

Education and Advocacy Education and advocacy are two major foci of the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund. These two foci have been addressed primarily through two vehicles:

* Electronic communications, www.umglobalaids fund.org, www.2020AIDSFreeworld.org, general church publications and GBCS AIDS Network— 4,000 plus AIDS Ambassadors 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1155

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Dr. Donald E. Messer, chair of the UMC Global John Culp, a member of the UMGAF Committee, AIDS Fund, said the conference helped “awaken the served as the local coordinator. sleeping giant called The United Methodist Church” by helping find practical ways to be involved in educa- The agenda for this event included opportunities to: tion, prevention, care, and treatment. “In doing so, we * share and explore successful strategies and fulfill the command of Christ to ‘heal every sickness resources to prevent and respond to HIV and and cure every illness,’” Messer said. AIDS in the African-American community; During Lighten the Burden III, a panelist who is a * address issues related to stigma, discrimination, gay man living with AIDS and a former prison inmate, cultural behavior, and socioeconomic factors that proclaimed that he didn’t know a church existed that promote the spread of HIV and AIDS; would be open to receiving a “person like him.” He went * develop supportive networks. on to say how happy he was to be a part of such a gath- This conference was funded by the UMGAF, ering where he felt accepted. His testimony to the power UMCOR, GBGM, AND GBCS. of love was profound—not something that can be quan- tified, but certainly a story of resurrection and new life. Lighten the Burden IV . . . Tampa Bay Funding for this conference came from registration The fourth international AIDS conference spon- fees and contributions from GBGM, GBOD, DMYP, sored by the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund GBCS, GBHEM, GCORR, GCSRW, UMCom and Committee will be held April 23, 2012, before General GCCUIC. Additional funding from UMGAF and Conference in Tampa Bay, FL, at Hyde Park United UMCOR supported the overall budget. Methodist Church. Delegates and visitors are invited to attend. For more information and to register contact Engaging Our Seminaries Linda Bales-Todd at [email protected]. Included in Lighten the Burden III was a “Seminary HIV/AIDS Colloquium” that brought together students The Grant Making Process and faculty members from United Methodist schools of The United Methodist Global AIDS Fund Committee theology for the first time. The purpose was to plan for has designated a Grants Committee to encourage applica- ways to strengthen seminary curriculum and community tions and review them under guidelines for approval. life, and to engage the church in a more dynamic UMCOR staff members Patricia Magyar and Bridget response to the HIV and AIDS crisis. Bishop Fritz Mutti Hayes make the initial review of grants with help from served as coordinator. Nine seminaries sent participants. others and submit proposals for grants to be made each Also attending were several Crusade Scholars represent- month. UMGAF has given over 200 grants in 38 countries ing the international church. through June 2011. Since this report has to be written so The participants prepared “A Call to Action,” which early, it is difficult to provide a total financial picture to the was sent to all seminary administrators, faculties, General Conference. By way of illustration, however, the and trustees inviting specific action to develop plans following breakdown is provided from 2010. for more fully engaging the seminary in the effort to Regional Breakdown of Grants educate and advocate for an AIDS-free world. The made in 2010 schools of theology provided funding for the students and faculty. African-American Women & HIV/AIDS Conference With HIV and AIDS rates spiking among the African American women population in the US, a second conference was sponsored by the UMGAF March 3-5, 2011, in Columbia, SC. This conference mobilized people in the US South and beyond to examine the causes for HIV and AIDS rate increases in African American women and how the churches can help. Rev 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1156

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By Continents: Africa: 66%; Asia: 20%; Europe: United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men, bish- 2%; Latin America: 5%; North America: 3%; Global: 4%. ops, district superintendents, seminary students, youth and young adults. Your prayers, giving, and encouraging Grants by Countries others to donate are all ways you can contribute to Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo: $94,235; 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free World. Kenya: $70,000; Rwanda: $20,000; Sierra Leone: $40,000; South Africa: $10,000; Tanzania: $7,500; Uganda: Your prayers give hope to people infected with and $40,350; Zambia: $12,000; and Zimbabwe: $26,000. affected by HIV and AIDS. A donation as small as $20 can save a life. A gift of $20 can stop the transmission Asia: China: $10,000; India: $27,000; Nepal: of HIV from a mother to a child, keep parents alive to $20,000; Pakistan: $10,000; Papua New Guinea: avoid children raising themselves, and teach young peo- $10,000; Sri Lanka: $20,000. ple and others how to prevent HIV. Congregations and annual conference can get involved by: Europe: Armenia: $10,000. * Placing a newsletter article in their church or Latin America: Dominican Republic: $6,500; conference newsletter, Guatemala: $9,948; Haiti: $10,000. * Dedicating a Sunday to HIV and AIDS aware- North America: USA: $15,000. ness, * Using bulletin inserts along with a special offering Global: Upper Room Publications: $10,000; Global envelope that can be ordered through Cokesbury, Action on Aging: $10,000. * Asking members to commit to give at least $20, * Displaying the informational Hope video before The United Methodist Global AIDS Fund has a or during a service, goal of making grants to every annual conference in the * Hosting a Bible study utilizing the Educational central conferences. Bishops have been invited to work Kit, with the leadership to develop grant proposals that will * Displaying a poster in their church to remind meet needs in their area. Staff members of the General people that Visioning an AIDS-Free World is an Board of Global Ministries are available to provide ongoing effort, counsel for the grant proposal process. Grants are * Sponsoring a fun and educational fund- approved each month based on merit. Priority is consid- raising event, ered for annual conferences where previous grants have * Passing resolutions not been made. * Becoming friends with United Methodist Global AIDS Fund on Facebook.

All of these ideas and more can be found on www.2020AIDSFreeworld.org.

Giving to 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free World can be done several ways: 1) Checks can be sent to United Methodist Global AIDS Fund, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087 with Advance #982345 in the memo line. 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free World 2) You can contribute on the UMCOR website umcor.org. 3) Checks may be placed in your local offer- Perfect 20/20 vision requires more than seeing, it ing designated to the United Methodist Global AIDS requires action. 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free World is Fund with Advance #982345 in the memo line. Checks a way for United Methodists and their friends to act on sent through your local church will go to the conference eradicating HIV and AIDS. It means transforming office and 25 percent will remain in the annual confer- money into medicine and ministry and changing cash ence for special AIDS projects and programs. Contact into care and compassion. The eradication of HIV and [email protected] with questions or for AIDS will require all laity and clergy to be involved: more information. 843504028428_003NEW.qxp:QK003.qxd 1/24/12 4:26 PM Page 1157

Global Ministries 1157 2012 General Conference 2) a) each church spending at least 30 minutes talking about HIV and AIDS, Take action at the 2012 General Conference toward 2) b) encouraging the 2016 and 2020 General an AIDS-free world. Vote to approve resolutions that: Conferences to spend at least 30 minutes focused on what United Methodists are 1) Reauthorize the United Methodist Global AIDS doing about HIV and AIDS, and Fund and Committee, 2) c) inviting each United Methodist to give $20 2) Support the 20/20: Visioning an AIDS-Free or more from now until 2020 to help eradi- World fundraising initiative. This calls for: cate HIV and AIDS. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1158

1158 DCA Advance Edition Proposed Amendments to the Book of Discipline

¶536. of the division in the quadrennium. United Methodist Women for consideration by the board of directors. The Petition Number: 20032-GM-¶536; Olson, Harriett Jane last date for consideration of any amendments will be - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global the last regular meeting of the board of directors before Ministries - Women’s Division. the date by which it must submit proposed legislation for UMW in the Jurisdiction action of the General Conference. Rationale: Amend ¶ 536 as follows: Incorporates references to new national structures ¶ 536. Constitution of United Methodist Women and provides flexibility to organize at jurisdiction level. in the Jurisdiction Article 1. Name—In each jurisdiction there shall be a jurisdiction organization named United Methodist ¶600. Women, auxiliary directly related to the Women’s Division of the General Board of Global Ministries. Petition Number: 20908-GM-¶600-G; Alegria, Raul, national organization of United Methodist Women. USA for Methodists Associated to Represent the Cause Article 2. Authority—Each jurisdiction organization of Hispanic Americans. of United Methodist Women shall have authority to promote its work in accordance with the program and poli- AC Committee on Hispanic/Latino Ministries cies of the Women’s Division of the General Board of Global Ministries national organization of United Add New ¶ after current ¶ 654 and renumber as Methodist Women. necessary: Article 3. Membership—The voting membership of ¶ 655 There shall be an annual conference commit- the jurisdiction organization of United Methodist tee on Hispanic/Latino Ministries or other structure to Women shall be composed of the members of the core support the development, implementation and evalua- planning group; Jurisdiction Leadership Team, six three tion of a Hispanic/Latino Ministries comprehensive plan delegates members from elected by each conference of action and the strategies for working with the organization, all of whom shall be conference officers; Hispanic/Latino persons of all generation in the commu- members of the Women’s Division board of directors of nity. The membership of the committee shall be nomi- United Methodist Women and the members of the nated and elected by the established procedures of the United Methodist Women Program Advisory Group liv- respective annual conference. The committee shall ing in organizations within the jurisdiction; a represen- include at least 1/3 Hispanic/Latino persons, clergy, laity tative of the jurisdictional aAssociation of dDeaconesses women and men. and/Home Missioners/Home mMissionaries; and all the The conference comprehensive plan for Hispanic active bishops of the jurisdiction. Ministries shall be ready by the 2014 session of annual Article 4. Meetings and Elections—a) There shall conference. The action plan shall include strategies to: be a meeting of the jurisdiction organization of United (1) strengthen existing ministries and congregations, Methodist Women during the last year of the quadren- (2) start new congregations and ministries, including nium. At that time, the jurisdiction president, and other intentional ministries with children and youth, (3) iden- Core Planning Group officers shall be elected, members tify, equip, and deploy elders, local pastors, lay mission- of the Jurisdiction Leadership Team and members of the ers, lay certified ministers, and other lay leaders who can board of directors of the Women’s Division national serve in this mission and ministry, (4) identify financial organization of United Methodist Women shall be and material resources to support and maintain its elected according to the Discipline ( ¶¶ 647.6d, 1325). implementation. The plan shall be based on a clear b) There may be other meetings gatherings as analysis of the socio-economic, cultural and religious needed to fulfill the Purpose. realities of the community where the conference is Article 5. Amendments—Proposed amendments to located. the constitution shall be sent to the recording secretary The Plan shall be presented to the respective not of the Women’s Division prior to the last annual meeting later than the 2014 Annual Conference. The Council of 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1159

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Bishops, The Connectional Table, and the National ence organization of United Methodist Women and of its Committee on Hispanic/Latino Ministries shall monitor executive committee. Leadership Team or equivalent the development of the annual conference plan and its structure. implementation. Article 5. Officers and Committees Leadership Rationale: Team— The conference organization shall elect such According to the 2010 US census Hispanic/Latino leaders as may be needed to fulfill the Purpose, includ- population increased 56% in the past ten years with an ing at least a president, a vice president, a secretary, a estimated total of 50.5 millions. This presents our treasurer, a secretary, and a cCommittee on nNominations. church a large mission field and the opportunity to make Additional officers and committees and teams shall may Disciples for Jesus Christ. This legislation calls Annual be elected or appointed formed in to fulfill the Purpose Conferences to give priority to ministries with... in accordance with the plans of this constitution and guidance from the Women’s Division national organization of United Methodist Women as set forth in the bylaws of the conference organization of United ¶647. Methodist Women. Petition Number: 20033-GM-¶647; Olson, Harriett Jane Article 6. Meeting and Elections. - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global a) There shall be an annual meeting of the confer- Ministries - Women’s Division. ence organization of United Methodist Women, . at which time there shall be presented a program designed UMW in the Annual Conference to meet the needs of the women of the conference in harmony with the purpose, plans, and responsibilities of the Amend ¶ 647 as follows: Women’s Division of the General Board of Global ¶ 647. United Methodist Women—Constitution of Ministries. Officers and the committee on nominations United Methodist Women in the Conference shall be elected, the necessary business transacted, and Article 1. Name—In each annual conference there pledges made for the ensuing year. At the annual meet- shall be a conference organization named United ing, the Leadership Team shall review the conference Methodist Women, auxiliary directly related to the juris- events and priorities of the prior year, propose a plan of dictional and national organizations of United Methodist activities and priority for the following year including a Women. and to the Women’s Division of the General supporting budget, elect members of the Leadership Board of Global Ministries. Team as needed to implement the plan and set the pledge Article 2. Function—The function of the confer- amount for the following year. ence organization of United Methodist Women shall be b) The voting body of the annual meeting of the to work with the district and local organizations and the local units of United Methodist Women, in to develop- conference organization shall be composed of represen- ing programs to meet the needs and interests of women tatives from units in local churches members of United and the concerns and responsibilities of the global Methodist Women organizations existing within the Church; to encourage and support spiritual growth, mis- bounds of the conference as determined by the confer- sionary outreach, and Christian social action; and to pro- ence organization; such district officers as the confer- mote the plans and responsibilities of the Women’s ence organization may determine; the conference Division. national organization of United Methodist officers and chairpersons of committees; members of the Women. conference and district leadership teams; Women’s Article 3. Authority—Each conference organization Division and officers of and members of the board of of United Methodist Women shall have authority to pro- directors of United Methodist Women and the United mote its work in accordance with the plans, responsibil- Methodist Women Program Advisory Group and the ities and policies of the Women’s Division of the jurisdictional organization leadership team residing General Board of Global Ministries. national organiza- within the bounds of the conference. tion of United Methodist Women. c) At the annual meeting of the conference organi- Article 4. Membership—The conference organiza- zation prior to the quadrennial meeting of the jurisdiction of United Methodist Women shall be composed of tional organization, six conference officers three all members of local units United Methodist Women members of the Leadership Team or their designees existing within the bounds of the conference. The resi- shall be elected according to provisions in ¶ 536.3 for dent bishop shall be an ex officio member of the confer- membership in the jurisdictional organization. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1160

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d) At the annual meeting of the conference organ- Article 2. Responsibilities—The responsibilities of ization prior to the quadrennial meeting of the jurisdic- the district organization of United Methodist Women tional organization, the conference organization shall shall be to work with United Methodist Women mem- nominate three two women for membership on the bers and local units organizations of United Methodist Women’s Division board of directors of the national Women existing within the district in developing to organization of United Methodist Women, the names to develop programs to meet the needs and interests of be sent to the jurisdiction organization according to women and the concerns and responsibilities of the ¶ 536.4. global Church; to encourage and support spiritual Article 7. Relationships. growth, missionary outreach, and Christian social a) The president of the conference organization of action; and to promote the plans and responsibilities of United Methodist Women is a member of the annual the Women’s Division and the conference and national conference, as set forth in ¶ 32. organizations of United Methodist Women. b) Designated officers shall represent tThe confer- Article 3. Authority—Each district organization of ence organization shall name representatives from United Methodist Women shall have authority to pro- among its membership to serve on the various agencies mote its work in accordance with the plans, responsibil- boards, councils, commissions, and committees of the ities, and policies of the conference and national annual conference as the constitutions and bylaws of organizations and the Women’s Division of the General such agencies provide. Board of Global Ministries. of United Methodist c) The conference organization shall encourage Women. women to participate in the total life and work of the Article 4. Membership—All members of organized Church and shall support them in assuming positions of units of United Methodist Women in the local churches responsibility and leadership. of the district shall be considered members of the district Article 8. Amendments. Proposed amendments to organization. The district organization of United this constitution may be sent to the recording secretary Methodist Women shall be composed of members of of the Women’s Division prior to the last annual meeting United Methodist Women existing within the district. of the division in the quadrennium. national organization The district superintendent shall be a an ex officio mem- of United Methodist Women for consideration by the ber of the district organization of United Methodist board of directors. The last date for consideration of any Women and of its Executive Committee. Leadership amendments will be the last regular meeting of the board Team or equivalent structure. of directors before the date by which it must submit pro- Article 5. Officers and Committees. Leadership posed legislation for action of the General Conference. Team—The district organization shall elect a as its lead- Rationale: ers those persons who are needed to help the organiza- Incorporates references to new national structures tion to fulfill the Purpose, including at least a president, and provides flexibility to organize at conference level. vice president, a secretary, a treasurer, a secretary and a cCommittee on nNominations. Additional officers and committees shall be elected or appointed or teams may be formed to fulfill the Purpose in accordance with the ¶669. plans of the Women’s Division as set forth in the bylaws Petition Number: 20034-GM-¶669; Olson, Harriett Jane for the district this constitution and guidance from the - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global conference and national organizations of United Ministries - Women’s Division. Methodist Women. Article 6. Meetings and Elections—There shall be UMW in the District an annual meeting of the district organization of United Methodist Women, at which time there shall be pre- Amend ¶ 669 as follows: sented a to adopt a program designed to meet the needs ¶ 669. United Methodist Women—Constitution of of the women of the district in harmony with the purpose United Methodist Women in the District Purpose, the plans, and responsibilities of the confer- Article 1. Name—In each district there shall be a ence and national organizations and the Women’s district organization named United Methodist Women, Division of the General Board of Global Ministries. of directly related to the conference and national organiza- United Methodist Women, to elect members of the tions of United Methodist Women. and the Women’s Leadership Team Officers and the cCommittee on Division of the General Board of Global Ministries. nNominations, to transact shall be elected, the necessary 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1161

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business transacted, and to receive pledges made for the Global Ministries: Evangelization and Church Growth ensuing year. Program Area, Community and Institutional Ministries Article 7. Relationships—a) Designated officers Program Area, Mission Contexts and Relationships shall represent tThe district organization of United Program Area, Mission Personnel Program Area, and or Methodist Women shall designate members to serve on the United Methodist Committee on Relief. In such the various boards, councils, commissions, and commit- cases the program unit shall determine the Advance tees of the district and/or the Annual Conference as the Special project(s) to which such a gift shall be allocated, constitution and bylaws of such agencies provide. inform the donor where the gift has been invested, and, b) The district president shall be the only district as far as practicable, establish communication between representative a member with vote, on of the conference donor and recipient. executive committee Leadership Team. Amend ¶ 821.3c as follows: c) The district organization shall encourage women FundsDonor-designated gifts received through the to participate in the total life and work of the Church and Advance shall be used solely for project support and shall support them in assuming positions of responsibil- are not to be used for general Church administration or ity and leadership. promotional costs. There may be a transaction fee for Article 8. Amendments—Proposed amendments to online contributions as charged by the financial institu- this constitution may be sent to the recording secretary tion.Donors will be offered the option to add an addi- of the Women’s Division of the General Board of Global tional contribution to cover administrative costs. Ministries prior to the last annual meeting of the division Amend ¶ 821.3e as follows: in the quadrennium. national organization of United Upon receipt of funds for a general Advance Methodist Women for consideration by the board of Special, each administering program unit the General directors. The last date for consideration of any amend- Board of Global Ministries shall communicate promptly ments will be the last regular meeting of the board of with the donor, acknowledging receipt of the gift and directors before the date by which it must submit pro- suggesting avenues for communication if communica- posed legislation for action of the General Conference. tion has not already been established. Rationale: Amend the last sentence of ¶ 821.4 as follows: Incorporates references to new national structures Individuals may remit directly to respective pro- and provides flexibility to organize at district level. gram units in a manner determined by the treasurer of the General Council on Finance and Administration, including online giving, with these remittances reported to the annual conference treasurer by the respective ¶821. program units General Council on Finance and Petition Number: 20360-GM-¶821-G; Kumar, A. Moses Administration. Rathan - Nashville, TN, USA for General Council on Rationale: Finance and Administration. These changes reflect the revised organizational structure of the General Board of Global Ministries that The Advance has responsibility for implementing the work supported by the Advance. They also clarify some of the adminis- Amend ¶ 821.1 as follows: trative procedures related to processing and acknowl- The Advance for Christ and His Church (hereafter edging receipt of gifts, including the use of new referred to as the Advance) is an official program within technology. The United Methodist Church through which support may be designated for projects approved by the Advance Committee of the General Board of Global Ministries (hereafter referred to as the Advance Committee.) ¶822. Cultivation for the Advance shall be through channels of Petition Number: 20361-GM-¶822; Kumar, A. Moses the cChurch other than United Methodist Women who Rathan - Nashville, TN, USA for General Council on have other means of mission giving. Finance and Administration. Amend ¶ 821.2c as follows: Rather than being given to a specific project, an Appeals for The Advance Advance Special Gift may be given to the following designated mission program units of the General Board of Amend the first sentence of ¶ 822.4 as follows: 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1162

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The appeal for Advance Specials shall be channeled Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of through bishops, district superintendents, and pastors, Global Ministries. and other individuals. Delete ¶ 822.6. GBGM Responsibilities Rationale: These changes reflect the revised organizational Amend ¶1302.8 as follows: structure of the General Board of Global Ministries that ¶1302. Responsibilities— has responsibility for promoting and implementing the 8. To express address the concerns of women organ- work supported by the Advance. They also clarify some ized for mission and to help equip women for full partic- of the administrative procedures related to processing ipation both locally and globally in the Church and the and acknowledging receipt of gifts. world. Rationale: The proposed revisions are a result of the proposed ¶1301. structural separation of the Women’s Division from GBGM. United Methodist Women organized for mis- Petition Number: 20519-GM-¶1301-!-G; Skinner, Cal - sion will express their concerns directly. Crystal Lake, IL, USA.

Relocation of GBGM Headquarters ¶1304. The first sub-paragraph of Discipline ¶1301 is amended as follows: Petition Number: 20385-GM-¶1304-G; Kemper, ¶ 1301. There shall be a General Board of Global Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Ministries, hereinafter referred to as the board, the pur- Global Ministries. pose of which is found within the expression of the total mission of the Church. It is a missional instrument of GBGM Authority The United Methodist Church, its annual conferences, missionary conferences, and local congregations in the Amend ¶1304 as follows: context of a global setting. In order to better fulfill its ¶1304. Authority—The board shall have authority mission in a global setting, the headquarters and staff of to make bylaws and regulate its proceedings in harmony the board shall be relocated to Africa. No later than July accordance with the Book of Discipline. Bylaws may be 1, 2013, the Bishops of Africa, in their sole and unfet- amended by a two-thirds vote of the members present tered discretion, shall determine by majority vote the and voting thereon at a regular or special meeting, pro- locality of the new headquarters in Africa and shall vided that required notice of such amendment has previ- transmit that determination in writing to the president ously been given to the members. The board shall have and general secretary of the board. The board shall then the power and right to do any and all things that shall be lease or otherwise acquire adequate facilities and shall authorized by its charter, except when there is duplica- complete the relocation no later than January 1, 2015. ... tion of activities from one agency to another. It shall Rationale: have authority to develop and carry out its responsibili- Nearly 35% of the members of our Methodist ties as described in ¶ 1302; to buy, acquire, or receive by global community are in Africa, where church attendance is growing rapidly, while it suffers steady decline gift, devise, or bequest property—real, personal, and in the United States. Moving headquarters from New mixed; to hold, mortgage, sell, and dispose in a manner York to Africa will support the outstanding African mis- harmonious accordance with ¶¶806-807; to develop and sions, while reducing church costs and staff living maintain ecumenical relations to carry out its responsi- expenses. The... bilities; and to administer its affairs through the board and its various units and committees. Rationale: The proposed revisions promote clarity and make ¶1302. this paragraph consistent with applicable New York state Petition Number: 20384-GM-¶1302.8-G; Kemper, law (see §709(c) NY N-PCL). 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1163

Global Ministries 1163 ¶1305. Missions, the Woman’s Missionary Council, and the Board of Church Extension of The Methodist Episcopal Petition Number: 20386-GM-¶1305-G; Kemper, Church, South; the Board of Missions of The Methodist Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Protestant Church; the Board of Missions of The Global Ministries. Methodist Church; such other incorporated or unincor- porated divisions and departments and their predeces- GBGM Incorporation sors as may have been merged into the board; and such Amend ¶1305.1 as follows: other corporations or agencies of the General ¶1305. Incorporation—1. The General Board of Conference as do similar work; but this list shall not be Global Ministries board shall be incorporated and shall construed as exclusive exhaustive. function through the board and its units implement its Amend ¶1305.5 as follows: responsibilities through its corporate structure and the 5. The board shall have the power authority to cre- corporate structures of the entities that it controls or that ate those subsidiary units or sections needed in the ful- are administratively organized as divisions or depart- fillment of designated functions, upon approval of the ments of the board. board. Amend ¶1305.2 as follows: Rationale: 2. The General Board of Global Ministries of The The proposed revisions promote clarity and reflect United Methodist Church board or another entity the proposed structural separation of the Women’s described in ¶ 1305.1 shall be the successor to the fol- Division from GBGM as recommended by the board of lowing corporations: the Board of Missions of The directors of each organization. Evangelical United Brethren Church, the Home Missions and Church Erection Society of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, the Foreign Missionary ¶1305. Society of the United Brethren in Christ, the Women’s Missionary Association of the Church of the United Petition Number: 20776-GM-¶1305; Shillady, William Brethren in Christ, the Missionary Society of The S. - New York, NY, USA. Evangelical Church, and the Board of Church Extension of The Evangelical Church, and as such successor it shall Conditional Donations be and is authorized and empowered to receive from its said predecessor corporations all trust funds and assets of Add new sub-paragraph after ¶1305.2: every kind and character—real, personal or mixed—held In the case of administering “conditional donations by them, and it shall and hereby is authorized to admin- secured by trust agreements and mortgages.” issued ister such trusts and funds in accordance with the condi- prior to 1980, the General Board of Global Ministries of tions under which they have been previously received the United Methodist Church may negotiate payment of and administered by the said predecessor corporations. less than original value of any outstanding notes that are Amend the first and last sentences of ¶1305.3 as associated with former conditional grants or donations follows: secured by trust agreements or mortgages. 3. It The board or another entity described in Rationale: ¶ 1305.1 shall have control of all the work formerly con- Current paragraph refers to historic conditions that trolled and administered by the following: the Board of prohibits GBGM from accepting payment at less than Health and Welfare Ministries; the Board of Missions of face value on trust agreements and mortgages of $5000 The United Methodist Church; the Board of Missions or more. The dollar amounts have not been changed since and Church Extensions of The Methodist Church; the 1968. GBGM officers should be given latitude to negoti- Missionary Society, the Board of Foreign Missions, the ate payment for funds for future Mission investment. Board of Home Missions and Church Extension, the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society, the Woman’s Home Missionary Society, the Wesleyan Service Guild, ¶1306. and the Ladies’ Aid Societies of The Methodist Episcopal Church; the Board of Missions, including the Petition Number: 20387-GM-¶1306-G; Kemper, Woman’s Missionary Society, the Woman’s Board of Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Foreign Missions, the Woman’s Board of Home Global Ministries. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1164

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GBGM Executive Committee ¶1308. Elected Staff—1. Board Cabinet—a) The board shall elect it’s the general secretary annually for a Amend ¶1306 as follows: quadrennial term by ballot. As chief staff officer of the ¶1306. Executive Committee—There shall be an board, the general secretary shall have direct involve- executive committee, which shall exercise the powers of ment in staff selections. the board ad interim, and whose membership and b) The board shall elect, for quadrennial terms, a responsibilities shall be determined by the board’s deputy general secretary for administration, a maximum bylaws of the board. of five other deputy general secretaries and a board gen- Rationale: eral treasurer and as many deputy general secretaries The proposed revision promotes clarity. and associate general secretaries as the board thinks are appropriate to carry out its work. In addition, the Women’s Division shall nominate its deputy general secretary for election by the division and the board after ¶1307. consultation with the president and the general secretary Petition Number: 20388-GM-¶1307-G; Kemper, of the board. Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of c) The board’s personnel committee, in consultation Global Ministries. with the general secretary of the board, shall recommend candidates for the positions of deputy general secretaries GBGM Corporate Officers and board treasurer for election by the board described in the preceding sub-paragraph b. Amend ¶1307 as follows: d) The general secretary may add positions to the ¶1307. Corporate Officers—The board shall elect cabinet in consultation with the board’s personnel com- as its corporate officers a president, three one vice pres- mittee. idents, a general treasurer, a recording corporate secre- Delete ¶1308.2. tary, and such other officers as it shall deem necessary. Delete ¶1308.3. The board shall determine the powers and duties of its Rationale: the officers. The proposed revisions to term of election reflect The president, general secretary, and treasurer of quadrennial election of relevant executive staff. The pro- the board are ex officio members of all units and their posed deletion of Women’s Division Deputy General executive committees, and standing committees of the Secretary election reflects proposed structural separa- board, without vote. The Women’s Division shall elect tion of Women’s Division from GBGM. Authority of its president, who shall be one of the three vice presi- Personnel Committee expanded to include hire of dents of the board. Associate General Secretaries and other Cabinet posi- Rationale: tions. Deletion of description as ex-officio members is proposed as this is covered under GBGM bylaws. Deletion of Women’s Division officer election is proposed to reflect the proposed structural separation of the ¶1310. Women’s Division from GBGM. Some revisions in this Petition Number: 20390-GM-¶1310-G; Kemper, paragraph are to promote clarity and to correct officer Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of titles. Global Ministries.

GBGM Properties, Trusts, and Annuities

¶1308. Amend ¶1310 as follows: Petition Number: 20389-GM-¶1308-G; Kemper, ¶1310. Properties, Trusts, and Annuities—1. All Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of properties, trust funds, annuity funds, permanent funds, Global Ministries. and endowments now or formerly held and administered by...or their successors shall be carefully safe-guarded. GBGM Elected Staff The General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church board shall endeavor to invest in insti- Amend ¶1308.1 as follows: tutions, companies, corporations, or funds that make a 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1165

Global Ministries 1165 positive contribution toward the realization of the goals ¶1314. outlined in the Social Principles of The United Petition Number: 20035-GM-¶1314-G; Olson, Harriett Methodist Church and to administer such investments in Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global the best interest of those persons and causes for which Ministries - Women’s Division. said funds were established. Such properties, trust funds, annuity funds, permanent funds, and endowments shall Deaconess and Home Missioner be transferred to the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church board from merged Amend ¶ 1314.1 as follows: boards and societies only when such transfers can be 1314. General Provisions—1. There shall be in The made in accordance with the laws of the states where the United Methodist Church the Office of Deaconess and several boards and societies are chartered and on the rec- Home Missioner. The purpose of the oOffice of ommendation of the board and the approval of such dDeaconess and hHome mMissioner shall be to express boards and societies. Funds of the board and its preced- representatively the love and concern of the believing ing corporations and societies that are subject to appro- community for the needs in the world and to enable, priation shall be appropriated only on recommendation through education and involvement, the full ministry of the board. (See ¶ 806.11.) and mission of the people of God. Deaconesses and 2. Former Evangelical United Brethren mission home missioners function through diverse forms of serv- agencies located within the United States not directly ice directed toward the world to make Jesus Christ owned by the General Board of Global Ministries board known in the fullness of his ministry and mission, which or the Women’s Division of the board and which receive mandate that his followers: more than 50 percent of their charitable donations a) Alleviate suffering; through United Methodist channels of giving shall be b) Eradicate causes of injustice and all that robs life governed by a board of trustees or directors of whom of dignity and worth; two-thirds of its elected voting membership shall be c) Facilitate the development of full human poten- members of The United Methodist Church. tial; and 3. The financial affairs of the board shall be as fol- d) Share in building global community through the lows: church universal. a) The income of the board, exclusive of the Add new sub-paragraph after ¶ 1314.1: Women’s Division, shall be derived from apportion- 2. The Office of Deaconess and Home Missioner is ments, assessments, or askings distributed to jurisdic- a lay order of The United Methodist Church as order is tions, annual conferences, and pastoral charges by the defined in ¶ 306 “a covenant community within the budget-making process of the General Conference in church to mutually support, care for, and hold account- such manner as the General Conference may prescribe, able its members for the sake of the life and mission of and from church schools, gifts, donations, freewill the church”. offerings, annuities, bequests, specials, and other Rationale: sources from which missionary and benevolence funds Demonstrates that the community of Deaconesses are usually derived, in harmony accordance with The and Home Missioners constitutes an order of the Book of Discipline and actions of the General church, as defined in ¶306. This is also consistent with Conference. Funds for the fulfillment of the responsi- the UM Handbook on Ministry, Interpretation 2009- bilities of the Women’s Division shall be derived from 2012, which states, “The purpose of organizing the life annual voluntary pledges, offerings, gifts, devises, of the church is to provide an instrument through which bequests, annuities, or money received through special ministry... emphases and from meetings held in the interest of the division. Rationale: The proposed revisions reflect the proposed struc- ¶1314. tural separation of the Women’s Division from GBGM Petition Number: 20036-GM-¶1314-G; Olson, Harriett as recommended by the boards of directors of each Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global organization. Ministries - Women’s Division. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1166

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Deaconess and Home Missioner Global Ministries United Methodist Women and may not contract for service that would nullify this authority. Amend ¶ ¶ 1314.2, 1314.3, and 1314.7 as follows: Rationale: 2. 3. Deaconesses, who are laywomen, and home Changes the deaconess and home missioner rela- missioners, who are laymen, are professionally trained tionship from General Board of Global Ministries to persons who have been led by the Holy Spirit to devote United Methodist Women. Conforms to historic and their lives to Christlike service under the authority of the central conference use of both consecration and com- Church. They are approved by the General Board of missioning. The commitment of deaconesses and home Global Ministries through a process established by missioners to devote their lives to Christlike service United Methodist Women, consecrated and commis- under the authority of the Church is... sioned by a bishop at a session of the board or at a setting approved by the board. settings approved by the board of directors of United Methodist Women. They shall have a continuing relationship to The United ¶1314. Methodist Church through the General Board of Global Petition Number: 20038-GM-¶1314-G; Olson, Harriett Ministries United Methodist Women. Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Deaconesses and home missioners are available for Ministries - Women’s Division. service with any agency or program of The United Methodist Church. Deaconesses and home missioners Deaconess and Home Missioner may also serve in other than United Methodist Church agencies or programs, provided that approval be is given Amend ¶ 1314.5 as follows: by the board United Methodist Women in consultation 5. 6. Deaconesses and home missioners shall be with the bishop of the receiving area. seated at the sessions of the annual conference with 3. 4. Full-time service is the norm for the ministry voice and vote as lay members of the annual conference of a deaconess or home missioner, meaning that the per- in accordance with ¶¶ 32 and 602.4. son’s entire vocational time is devoted to work of min- Delete ¶ 1314.6. istry in the field of labor to which one is appointed by Rationale: the bishop. This petition merges related content from ¶1314.5 a) The program office shall process aAppoint- ments for deaconesses and home missioners shall be and ¶1314.6. recommended in consultation with the bishop of the area, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the General Board of Global Ministries United ¶1314. Methodist Women. b) The appointment shall be fixed by the bishop Petition Number: 20635-GM-¶1314-G; Lomperis, John (¶ 415 .7) at the session of annual confer- Deaconess Restriction ence and printed in the list of appointments in the annual conference journal. ADD a new section at the end of Discipline ¶1314: c) The annual conference secretary shall: 11. No person shall be appointed as deaconess or (1) Keep a record of all persons in the annual con- home missioner to any work that is incompatible with ference who have been commissioned and/or conse- the doctrinal standards or Social Principles of The crated to the Office of Deaconess or Home Missioner. United Methodist Church. (2) Publish annually in the annual conference jour- Rationale: nal the list of appointments of deaconesses and home Making this explicit church law is needed to correct missioners. the recent history of violations of this standard, includ- ... ing one deaconess currently appointed as Associate 7. Deaconess and home missioners shall be subject Executive Director of the Reconciling Ministries to the administrative authority of the program or agency Network, whose main goal is overturning the UMC’s to which they are appointed. In matters of their assignment biblical stand on sexual morality. Such embarrassing they are subject to the authority of the General Board of institutional hypocrisy shrinks the UMC. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1167

Global Ministries 1167 ¶1314. or home missioner may request a leave of absence according to the administrative guidelines and proce- Petition Number: 20037-GM-¶1314.4-G; Olson, dures of United Methodist Women. Harriett Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board Rationale: of Global Ministries - Women’s Division. This petition removes administrative matters from the Discipline; detailed guidelines for Leave of Absence Deaconess and Home Missioner are provided in administrative policies. It also changes the relationship of the Office of Deaconess and Home Amend ¶ 1314.4 as follows: Missioner from General Board of Global Ministries to 4. 5. A deaconess or home missioner shall hold United Methodist Women. church membership in a local church within the conference where her/his appointment is located and shall be a voting member of the charge conference of that church. Those holding staff positions serving in appointments ¶1316. with a general board or connectional agency of The United Methodist Church may hold church membership Petition Number: 20040-GM-¶1316-G; Olson, Harriett in or where an annual conference borders meet may hold Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global church membership in an annual conference within rea- Ministries - Women’s Division. sonable distance of the headquarters of the board or Deaconess and Home Missioner agency served office location at which they serve. A deaconess or home missioner whose appointment is located Amend ¶ 1316 as follows: outside the boundaries of an annual conference may ¶ 1316. Committee on Deaconess and Home hold her or his church membership in a local church in Missioner Service – 1. There shall be a Committee on her or his home conference or in the local church in the Deaconess Service, which shall be advisory to the annual conference in which she or he last held her or his General Board of Global Ministries. United Methodist church membership. Women’s national organization will organize the Rationale: Committee on Deaconess and Home Missioner Service. As technology continues to make offices at a dis- 2. 1. The Committee on Deaconess and Home tance more effective, this change will allow persons in Missioner Service shall be composed of one bishop who administrative positions and along conference bound- is a member of the General Board of Global Ministries; aries to be active in a nearby Annual Conference. a total of six active deaconesses, home missioners, and home missionaries selected by vote of the active deaconesses, home missioners, and home missionaries who ¶1314. relate to the board; and four directors of the General Board of Global Ministries, at least two of whom shall Petition Number: 20039-GM-¶1314.9-G; Olson, also be directors of the Women’s Division. (active or Harriett Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board retired) named by the Council of Bishops; two represen- of Global Ministries - Women’s Division. tatives of the Order of Deaconess and Home Missioner, named by the Order; two representatives of United Deaconess and Home Missioner Methodist Women, named by the board of directors of United Methodist Women; and one representative of the Amend ¶ 1314.9 as follows: National Association of Deaconesses, Home Missioners 9. A leave of absence may be requested. It shall be and Home Missionaries, named by the Association. The granted for reasons of health, family responsibilities, or Committee may name additional members as it deems vocational re-assessment, or for lack of employment in necessary, but will consist of no more than twelve per- a helping profession or church-related vocation. sons in total. Approval of leave of absence shall be given annually. Additional members may be co-opted as deemed Such leave shall normally not exceed five years. necessary by the Committee on Deaconess Service. Exceptional circumstances requiring an extended leave 3. 2. There shall may be an executive committee shall be handled in consultation with the Personnel and other committees as necessary for carrying out the Services Team of the Mission Personnel Program Area duties of the Committee on Deaconess and Home of the General Board of Global Ministries. A deaconess Missioner Service. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1168

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4. 3. The work of the committee shall be carried 4. There may be jurisdictional organizations of out in accordance with the bylaws as approved by the deaconesses; home missioners, and home missionaries General Board of Global Ministries board of directors of and their support constituencies, which shall operate United Methodist Women. according to policies approved by the General Board of Rationale: Global Ministries. Locates Committee on Deaconess Service within Rationale: United Methodist Women’s national organization and Establishes the relationship between United revises membership accordingly. Updates name of com- Methodist Women and the national organization, juris- mittee to include Home Missioner. dictional associations and the administrative office for the Office of Deaconess and Home Missioner. Eliminates the term “Program Office” to avoid confusion. ¶1317. Petition Number: 20041-GM-¶1317; Olson, Harriett Jane - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global ¶1327. Ministries - Women’s Division. Petition Number: 20394-GM-¶1327-G; Kemper, Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Deaconess and Home Missioner Global Ministries. Amend ¶ 1317 as follows: UMCOR ¶ 1317. Deaconess Program Office Supporting the Work of Deaconesses and Home Missioners – There Amend ¶1327 as follows: United Methodist Women’s national organization shall HEALTH AND RELIEF UNITED METHODIST be a program office for deaconesses and home mission- COMMITTEE ON RELIEF ers to represent the deaconess and home missioner rela- ¶ 1327. General Provisions— tionship retain staff whose primary assignment is to a) Purpose—The Health and Relief Unit United represent deaconesses and home missioners on a Methodist Committee on Relief (“UMCOR”) exists national level and to maintain a community of profes- to assist United Methodists and churches to become sionally competent persons who are committed to serv- involved globally in health and welfare ministries and in ice under the authority of the Church. The executive direct ministry to persons in need through programs of secretary of the program office shall be a deaconess. At least one of the executive staff assigned to the work of relief, rehabilitation, and service, including issues of deaconess and home missioner shall be a deaconess or refugees, hunger and poverty, and disaster response; and home missioner. to assist organizations, institutions, and programs 1. All administrative policies and procedures that related to annual conferences and other units of The pertain to the office of deaconesses and home missioners United Methodist Church in their involvement in direct shall also apply to the office of home missionary mission- service to persons in need through both residential and aries and be administered by the Deaconess Program nonresidential ministries. Office executive staff with primary assignment to the work b) Authority—The Health and Relief Unit, a single with deaconesses and home missioners (¶¶ 1314-1317). administrative unit with two functional areas—United 2. The General Board of Global Ministries shall Methodist Committee on Relief, and Health and Welfare assign the administration of the program office to the Ministries—UMCOR is a New York not-for-profit cor- Mission Personnel Program Area or another unit as it poration whose directors are elected by the General may determine (¶ 1303.1b) There may be a national Board of Global Ministries. UMCOR shall operate association of deaconesses, home missioners, and home under in a manner consistent with the policies set by the missionaries in relationship with United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries and in accordance Women. with the bylaws of the General Board of Global 3. There may be a national jurisdictional organiza- Ministries and UMCOR. tions of deaconesses, home missioners, and home mis- c) Membership—The membership of Health and sionaries, which shall operate according to policies Relief shall be constituted in accord with the bylaws of approved by the General Board of Global Ministries. the General Board of Global Ministries. and their support constituencies. 2. United Methodist Committee on Relief— 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1169

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a) c) Responsibilities—The responsibilities of the Relief shall respond in cooperation with the General United Methodist Committee on Relief UMCOR shall Board of Global Ministries as follows: be as follows: (1) UMCOR, in consultation with conference disas- (1) To seek to address human need in the spirit of ter response coordinators, bishops, and district superin- Jesus Christ.; tendents, shall identify specific locations where local (2) To provide immediate relief of acute human church property and church-related properties have suf- need and to respond to the suffering of persons in the fered damage. world caused by natural, ecological, political turmoil (2) This information shall be relayed to the General and civil disaster.; Board of Global Ministries, which shall contact the con- (3) To work cooperatively with the appropriate conference disaster response coordinator to arrange an on- ference units, ecumenical bodies, and interdenomina- site visit to evaluate damages and initiate an ongoing tional agencies in the identification of, advocacy for, and consultative process. assistance with ministries with refugees, hunger and 3. Health and Welfare Ministries—a) Responsibili- poverty, and disaster response.; ties—The responsibilities of Health and Welfare (4) To administer these ministries described in sub- Ministries shall be: paragraph three (3) above in the spirit of Jesus Christ, (1) To (8) assist conference units in addressing preserving the dignity of persons without regard to reli- emerging and ongoing global health issues, including gion, race, nationality, or gender, and shall seek to comprehensive community-based primary health care, enhance the quality of life in the human community.; HIV/AIDS, ministries with persons with physically and (5) To work cooperatively with The General mentally challenging conditions, environmental health, Commission on Communication in promotion of the and particularly the health needs of women, children, One Great Hour of Sharing offering.; youth, the communities of color in the United States, (6) To initiate printed, audiovisual, electronic, and and racial and ethnic communities globally.; other resources to interpret, support, and communicate (2) To provide (9) upon the request of the appropri- with conferences and churches concerning appeals for ate conference unit, provide consultation services to help and information related to ministries with refugees, existing and emerging health and welfare institutions hunger and poverty, and disaster response.; and programs, and to jurisdictional, conference, district, (7) To assist and train conference coordinators to and local church units.; address emerging and ongoing issues related to refugee (3) To (10) assist local churches, districts, and ministries, root causes of hunger and poverty, disaster annual conferences to develop ministries of health, heal- relief, and rehabilitation.; b) Financial Support—Sources of funds shall ing, and wholeness.; include: voluntary gifts, One Great Hour of Sharing (4) To (11) provide help to conferences and health offering, Advance Special Gifts, supplementary gifts of and welfare institutions to clarify their relationship with United Methodist Women, churchwide appeals made by one another, including matters of legal and financial authority of the Council of Bishops and the General responsibility, and help health and welfare institutions to Council on Finance and Administration, and designated become involved in outreach ministry globally.; benevolence funds. Sources of funds for administrative (5) To provide programs for (12) act as a facilitator functions of the General Board of Global Ministries with respect to annual conferences, districts, and local shall be other than designated funds to the United churches that to encourage awareness of the gifts and Methodist Committee on Relief. needs of persons with disabilities and to promote the c) Consultation—The response of United leadership and employment throughout the connectional Methodist Committee on Relief growing out of natural system of persons with disabilities; and or civil disaster shall be made at the request of the (6) To (13) initiate printed, audiovisual, electronic, appropriate body related to The United Methodist and other resources to interpret, support, and communi- Church. Repair and reconstruction of local church prop- cate with conferences and churches concerning develop- erty and other church-related property shall be included ment of health and welfare ministries and promotion of in the funding response of the United Methodist Golden Cross and similar offerings. Committee on Relief only when such response has been b) Financial Support—Sources of funds shall included in the appeal made for funds or the Advance include financial support from World Service and other Special Gifts made for this purpose. When this condition funds designated for the program of health and welfare has been met, the United Methodist Committee on ministries, including such proportion of undesignated 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1170

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gifts as may be determined by the board, and from gifts, Rationale: wills, and trust funds given especially to Health and The proposed revisions reflect the elimination of all Welfare Ministries. Health and Welfare Ministries is references to the corporate entity Health and Welfare authorized to receive financial grants and trusts from pri- Ministries as UMCOR is now responsible for this work. vate foundations and funds from public agencies and is With the elimination of the Health and Welfare unit, the empowered to act as trustee for the administration of need for the Health and Relief section is no longer nec- such bequests. essary. d) Response to Requests for Disaster Funding— Details relating to financial... UMCOR shall respond to a request for funding growing out of natural or civil disaster only if the request for such funds comes either from, (i) an appropriate body related to The United Methodist Church, preferably an annual ¶1327. conference, or (ii) an equivalent appropriate body of an Petition Number: 20473-GM-¶1327.3-G; Oduor, Ralph entity that is not related to The United Methodist R.R. - Lawrence, MA, USA for New England Annual Church. After receiving a funding request, UMCOR Conference; Shaffer, John J. - Stanwood, WA, USA for shall in consultation with conference disaster response Pacific Northwest Annual Conference; Harriott, Michael coordinators, bishops, and district superintendents in M., NJ, USA for Greater New Jersey Annual The United Methodist Church, or with persons in simi- Conference; Myers, Kevin Rice - Sun Prairie, WI, USA lar positions in equivalent appropriate bodies of entities for Wisconsin Annual Conference. 1 similar petition. that are not related to The United Methodist Church, identify specific locations where local church property Establish Committee on Disabilities Ministries and church-related properties have suffered damage, and arrange an on-site visit to evaluate and initiate an ongo- The 2012 General Conference directs the following consultative process when appropriate. ing: c) e) Relationship with the United Methodist → ¶ 1327.3 (5) is amended by adding a new sen- Association of Health and Welfare Ministries—Health tence: and Welfare Ministries UMCOR shall work with the (5) To provide programs for annual conferences, United Methodist Association of Health and Welfare districts, and local churches that encourage awareness of Ministries in leadership development and may make the gifts and needs of persons with disabilities and to services available to the association. promote the leadership and employment throughout the f) Limitation of Responsibility—Health and connectional system of persons with disabilities. Welfare Ministries UMCOR shall not be responsible, UMCOR Health (formerly Health and Welfare legally or morally, for the debts, contracts, or obligations Ministries) shall establish, maintain, and provide finan- or for any other financial commitments of any character cial and personnel support for a United Methodist or description created, undertaken, or assumed by any Committee on Disability Ministries to provide advocacy, institution or interest related to a unit of The United education and empowerment to lead the United Methodist Church, whether or not such institution or Methodist Church in creating a culture where people interest shall be approved, accepted, or recognized by with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of wor- Health and Welfare Ministries UMCOR or shall be affil- ship, leadership and ministry. iated with Health and Welfare Ministries UMCOR, or → Current funding from the General Board of whether or not the promotion or establishment of the Global Ministries for the expanded work of the newly same shall be approved by the constitution of Health and established permanent committee will be supplemented Welfare Ministries UMCOR. No such institution or by additional funding from a proposed change in interest related to a unit of The United Methodist Church Disability Awareness Sunday from an Approved Sunday and no officer or member of Health and Welfare for Annual Conference Observance to a Churchwide Ministries UMCOR shall have any authority whatsoever Special Sunday With Offerings (see separate petition). to take any action directly or by implication at variance Rationale: with, or deviating from, the limitation contained in the Health and Welfare Ministries of the General preceding sentence hereof, except as Health and Welfare Board of Global Ministries has sponsored and Ministries UMCOR may directly own and manage an financed the United Methodist Task Force on institution in its own name. Disability Ministries (formerly The United Methodist 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1171

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National Task Force on Developmental Disabilities) Program for Substance Abuse and Related Violence’s since 1994. The proposed legislation establishes the mission: diminish the stigma associated with the disease “Task Force” as a permanent committee with appro- of addiction; foster ministry responses of prevention, priate financial resources... intervention, treatment, recovery, and/or public policy; nurture networks of committed United Methodists engaged in addiction ministry; celebrate wholeness, the recovery from brokenness. ¶1327. The SPSARV-related Inter-Agency and Standing Petition Number: 20651-GM-¶1327.3a1-G; Paige, Committee Task Force be renamed to the United Peggy - Iron Mountain, MI, USA for UM Rural Methodist Global Council on Drug and Alcohol Fellowship. Addiction (UMGCDAA) to more accurately reflect the entities represented on this leadership body. In addition, Health Care for Immigrant Populations that it be mandated that each quadrennium, SPSARV invites, in accordance with the original church-wide Amend ¶ 1327.3.(1) by addition as follows approach that the 1992 General Conference intended, 3. Health and Welfare Ministries—a) Responsibil- each church agency and/or board, representatives that ities—The responsibilities of Health and Welfare geographically reflect the constituents served, and other Ministries shall be: select networks to join the leadership team. (1) To assist conference units in addressing emerg- SPSARV shall be re-affirmed and provided ing and ongoing global health issues, including compre- resources for the 2013-2016 quadrennium within the hensive community-based primary health care, current GBGM budget proposal. HIV/AIDS, ministries with persons with physically and Rationale: mentally challenging conditions, environmental health, The General Board of Global Ministries has and particularly the health needs of women, children, received notification that the Special Program on youth, all immigrant populations, the communities of Substance Abuse and Related Violence is petitioning the color in the United States, and racial and ethnic commu- General Conference 2012 to continue for SPSARV to be nities globally. housed in the GBGM. The GBGM submits this petition Rationale: in support of this request from SPSARV. The Hebrew Scriptures and the gospels call in many places for caring for the powerless and dispossessed. Petition Number: 20271-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas The social principles ¶162.V states “We believe health - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global care is a basic human right” and as such “all immigrant Ministries. populations” need to be included as stated in the Book of Resolutions # 3201. UM Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ The 2012 General Conference approves the continuation of the United Methodist Committee on Deaf and Proposed Non-Disciplinary Legislation Hard of Hearing Ministries. Petition Number: 20270-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas Rationale: - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Established at the 2000 General Conference as a Ministries. Steering Committee devoted to connecting The United Methodist Church with the greater deaf community, the Special Program on Substance Abuse and United Methodist Committee on Deaf and Hard of Related Violence Hearing Ministries has provided prayers, resources and funding to the connection in order to help churches con- The Special Program for Substance Abuse and nect with deaf... Related Violence shall continue to be lodged within the General Board of Global Ministries. Petition Number: 20272-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas In the 2013–2016 quadrennium, The United - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Methodist Church affirms and supports the Special Ministries. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1172

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Asian American Language Ministry Plan Pacific Islander Ministry Plan

The 2012 General Conference approves the contin- The 2012 General Conference approves the Pacific uation of the Asian American Language Ministry Plan Islander Ministry Plan for Pacific Islander Ministry. for Asian American ministry. Rationale: Rationale: The 2008 General Conference approved that a Asian American Language Ministry Plan has been national study committee be created for the purpose of serving as an important resource for developing new studying the needs, challenges, and gifts of the Pacific ministries as well as strengthening existing ones in the Islanders in the US. The national study committee accom- Asian American community. Through resources pro- plished its task and produced the Pacific Islander Ministry vided by Asian American Language Ministry Plan, The Plan. The Pacific Islander Ministry Plan seeks to... United Methodist Church has been able to reach out to many Asian American... Petition Number: 20321-GM-NonDis-$-G; Weaver, Peter - Lawrence, MA, USA for Coordinating Group of Petition Number: 20273-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas the Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Caribbean Special Program. 1 similar petition. Ministries. Holistic Strategy on Latin America Korean Ministry Plan and the Caribbean

The 2012 General Conference approves the contin- General Conference 2012 continues the Holistic uation of the Korean National Plan. The Korean National Strategy on Latin America and the Caribbean Special Plan shall be renamed the Korean Ministry Plan. Program into the next quadrennium. The Coordinating Rationale: Group will continue to meet regularly under the coordi- The Korean Ministry Plan, established by the nation of the General Board of Global Ministries. General Conference of The United Methodist Church in The Holistic Strategy on Latin America and the 2000, for the strengthening of Korean Ministries within Caribbean Special Program will be granted administra- and outside the church, with the vision of “To integrate tive funding at the level of $25,000 to facilitate the par- Wesleyan Tradition and Korean Spirituality to make ticipation of the representatives from Latin America and Disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the the Caribbean. world”... [Supporting Data (¶507.4): The asking of $25,000 will partially cover the expenses of the seven representa- Petition Number: 20274-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas tives of the partner churches in Latin America and the - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Caribbean. The expenses of the representatives of the Ministries. 1 similar petition. Council of Bishops of The UMC and the UM General Agencies will be expected to be covered by the Council National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry and the Agencies respectively. There will be at least one face-to-face annual meet- The 2012 General Conference approves the contin- ing. There will be additional meetings during the qua- uation of the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry. drennium via telephone/web. The average cost for each Rationale: of the seven persons traveling from Latin America and The last report of the national office included 49 the Caribbean for airfare, accommodations, meals, local United Methodist Annual Conferences of a total of 61 transportation and incidentals will be approximately working toward the fulfillment of the National Plan for $850 per meeting. This will represent a total of $5,950 Hispanic/Latino Ministry’s goals, including the develop- annually, $23,800 for the quadrennium. Meeting related ment of conference strategies for Hispanic/Latino expenses such as printing, meeting room expenses, etc. Ministry, the development of new spaces for worship are estimated to be approximately $350 per meeting; a and faith communities, the... total of $1,400 for the quadrennium.] Rationale: Petition Number: 20275-GM-NonDis; Kemper, Thomas The Coordinating Group of the Holistic Strategy on - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Latin America and the Caribbean Special Program Ministries. (Holistic LAC) met regularly during 2008-2012 and 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1173

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started to organize the partnership work of UM general End the Israeli Occupation and end any financial contri- agencies in the region as it has been separately reported butions, including staff participation. (please refer to the submitted report). This Coordinating Rationale: Group... As seen on this one-sided coalition’s website (www.endtheoccupation.org) this group dismisses Petition Number: 21070-GM-NonDis-G; Lomperis, Israeli security concerns, seeks “to isolate Israel eco- John S.A. - Arlington, VA, USA. 1 similar petition. nomically, socially, and culturally,” promotes “compre- Withdraw Membership hensive divestment” against Israel, partners with activists opposing the Jewish state’s continued exis- The General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) tence, and overlooks anti-Israel aggression while shall withdraw its membership in the U.S. Campaign to denouncing Israel with inflammatory rhetoric. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1174

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R3009. Tasks and Objectives of the Steering Committee 1. The initial meeting of the Steering The Petition Number: 20217-GM-R3009-G; Kemper, Committee shall be to establish and organize set an over- Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of all agenda and budget for the quadrennium. and charged Global Ministries. with responsibilities including: This agenda will include two training events where the Steering Committee and Steering Committee other invited members of the greater deaf community and hearing advocates will be trained in various areas of Amend Resolution 3009 as follows: outreach to include but not be restricted to: 3009. The Church and Deaf Ministries Steering • presentation and advocacy skills for strengthen- Committee ing the connection with the greater deaf community; A Time for Action • becoming resources for the general church, Strategy and Structure for Strengthening the annual conferences, faith communities, and local churches; Connection with the Greater Deaf Community for the • working with general boards and agencies for New Century. strengthening the connection with the greater deaf com- A new era demands a new approach. As the greater munity; deaf community desires to serve the church and become • creating action plans and legislation for annual a resource for the whole connection, it is recommended conferences and General Conference. that the General Conference of 2000 adopt the proposed 2. The Steering Committee shall also identify gen- plan for “Strengthening the Connection with the Greater eral boards and agencies as well as target annual confer- Deaf Community for the New Century.” ences and seminaries for strengthening the connection Persons who are Deaf, late-deafened, hard of hear- with the greater deaf community. ing or deaf-blind desire to serve the church and become 3. All trained persons will be expected to serve in a resource for the whole connection. teams of two or more to provide resources, leadership, Structure and a presence for the greater deaf community at annual 1. A Steering Committee shall be established by an meetings of the targeted general boards and agencies, assigned staff member of the General Board of Global annual conferences, and seminaries. Ministries. 4. Targeted general boards and agencies will pro- 2. 1. There shall be a steering committee composed vide adequate agenda time at their annual meetings for of ten (10) members recruited for the steering commit- the 2000-2004? quadrennium for these trained teams to tee by an assigned staff member of GBGM as follows: educate, inform, and lead them to strengthen their connection with the greater deaf community. two persons who are deaf, two late-deafened, two hard 5. Targeted annual conferences will agree to pro- of hearing, one deaf-blind, one deaf institutional min- vide adequate time and access to conference staff and istry professional, and two clergy with experience cabinet to educate, inform, and lead them to strengthen in ministry with the greater deaf community persons their connection with the greater deaf community. who are Deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing, or deaf- 6. Targeted seminaries will agree to provide ade- blind. quate time and access to administration, faculty, and 3. 2. It is strongly urged that tThe committee shall staff to educate, inform, and lead them to strengthen be inclusive with regard to gender, ethnicity, jurisdic- their connection with the greater deaf community. tions, and different sign language and hearing abilities. 7. Teams shall report back to the Steering 4. 3. The initial meeting will be called by the staff Committee for direction and development as the process member of the General Board of Global Ministries dur- of strengthening the connection with the greater deaf ing the first year of the quadrennium and tThe Steering community continues through the quadrennium. Committee members shall elect their own officers: pres- • providing resources for the general church, ident, vice-president, and secretary. annual conferences, faith communities, and local 4. The Committee will work with the liaison staff churches; and working with general boards and agen- member from UMCOR Health. cies, and engaging in interagency cooperation especially 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1175

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with the older adult division and the task force on dis- National Cooperative Ministry Leadership ability ministries. •developing Christian leadership among the com- Amend Resolution 3101 as follows: munity of persons who are Deaf, late-deafened, hard of 3101. National Cooperative Ministry Leadership hearing and deaf-blind. This includes having the ability WHEREAS, the effectiveness of cooperative proj- to attend seminaries or other credentialing systems for ects, ministries, and parishes for the purposes of congre- entering the pastoral ministry when God calls. gational nurturing, outreach to communities of the poor • encouraging and nurturing young people who are and marginalized, and witnessing to Christian commit- Deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing or deaf-blind to ments in rural, urban and suburban communities has engage in this ministry long been recognized; and • creating new places for worship with people who WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church is expe- seek to worship with other people who are Deaf, late- riencing a decline in the number of ordained clergy per- deafened and deaf-blind • engaging in ministry with persons who have been sons and will need to find ways to enlist and train historically undereducated and underemployed persons for new models of ministry, among such models • improving global health through mission includ- being those that will seek to work in cooperative proj- ing communication in sign language or other means of ects, ministries, and parishes; in fulfillment of the man- communication such as assistive listening devices date from the 2008 General Conference “to plan and Accountability carry forward a national cooperative parish consultation The Steering Committee of “Strengthening the in order to facilitate broader use of existing cooperative Connection with the Greater Deaf Community for the forms and the incorporation of new patterns and Next Century” The Committee will be accountable to an processes that continue to emerge throughout the assigned section of the General Board of Global church,” an event known as “Soaring High: Cooperative Ministries sharing yearly progress reports and evalua- Ministries Changing Lives, Congregations and tion. The steering committee shall also report to The Communities” was held in Huntsville, AL in 2009. United Methodist Congress of the Deaf for discussion, Under the coordination of the Rural Chaplains sharing information, and plans for implementation. Association, this gathering reaffirmed the need and Summary potential for bringing people together for training, net- As The United Methodist Church prepares to enter into a new century, one of our most pressing concerns is working and celebration; to strengthen our connection with one another and with Therefore, be it resolved that the General Board of our world. Methodism has a long history from its ori- Global Ministries, the General Board of Discipleship, gins with John Wesley of commitment to its connection the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, with the forgotten communities of our world. The and the General Commission on Christian Unity and United Methodist Church’s connection with the greater Interreligious Concerns be called upon to work deaf community is a history of forgotten stories and for- together to provide leadership for the continued devel- gotten people. Never has there been a more important opment of the delivery of cooperative forms of min- time to act as God’s people and strengthen our connec- istry to The United Methodist Church and tion with the greater deaf community for the next cen- ecumenically; provide encouragement, financial sup- tury. In The United Methodist Church, the ministry with port and work with constituencies that are at the fore- people who are Deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing and front of cooperative ministries. This will include deaf-blind is a vital part of our four focus areas, develop- training events that expand the effective use of cooper- ing leaders and create new places for worship, including ative patterns and processes within the Church and people that have not been included in worship, improv- ecumenically; ing global health and engaging in ministry with the poor. Be it further resolved, that the annual conferences, districts, and local churches of The United Methodist Church be called on to implement processes that will R3101. eventuate result in understandings of how to initiate Petition Number: 20218-GM-R3101; Kemper, Thomas - needed cooperative projects, ministries, and parishes New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global and to facilitate their movement toward local and global Ministries. mission and ministry. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1176

1176 DCA Advance Edition R3102. Churches within the Latin America/Caribbean region, the program related United Methodist general agencies Petition Number: 20206-GM-R3102; Kemper, Thomas - and representatives of MARCHA (Methodists New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic Ministries. Americans) have affirmed the growing importance of our shared mission and ministry; and Deletion WHEREAS, the Encounter with Christ permanent Delete Resolution 3102. fund (025100) administered by the General Board of Rationale: Global Ministries is a primary source of financial sup- Relevant provisions of this resolution are proposed port for our mission partnership, with interest monies of to be merged into revisions to R3105, “Facilitation of some three hundred and seventy five thousand dollars Cooperative Ministry Throughout the Church,” making having already supported around fifty joint mission proj- R3102 redundant. ects in Methodist and United churches in twenty one countries and four regional entities of the region; and WHEREAS, a unique dimension of Encounter involves a process of shared decision making regarding R3103. the utilization of interest monies on behalf of mission among the leadership of CIEMAL (Council of Petition Number: 20207-GM-R3103; Kemper, Thomas - Evangelical Methodist Churches in Latin America and New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global the Caribbean) and MCCA (Methodist Church in the Ministries. Caribbean and the Americas) and the General Board of Deletion Global Ministries; and WHEREAS, the bishops/presidents and other lead- Delete Resolution 3103. ership of CIEMAL and MCCA conveyed to the Rationale: Conference of Methodist Bishops meeting in Panama in Relevant provisions of this resolution are proposed November, 2010 the critical importance of Encounter to be merged into revisions to R3105, “Facilitation of for our mission partnership, and Cooperative Ministry Throughout the Church,” making WHEREAS, the process of globalization and immi- R3103 redundant. gration has brought us ever more closer together with sister and brother Methodists of Latin America and the Caribbean; and WHEREAS, MARCHA, along with a host of other R3144. United Methodists has supported the development of the Encounter permanent fund 025100 and the Encounter Petition Number: 20905-GM-R3144-G; Alegria, Raul, Advance Special 14729 A from the beginning of the USA for Methodists Associated to Represent the Cause of Hispanic Americans. mission effort: THEREFORE, be it resolved, that General Encounter with Christ in Latin America Conference celebrate the achievement of reaching the and the Caribbean amount of 1.5 million dollars in the Encounter permanent fund 025100, and call upon annual conferences, Replace current Resolution 3144 with the follow- local churches and individuals to renew and increase ing: their commitment to Encounter as a primary mean of WHEREAS, the 2008 General Conference estab- expressing our solidarity together in mission and min- lished a Coordinating Group for the Holistic Strategy on istry with Latin America and the Caribbean. Latin America and the Caribbean Special Program in order to develop a mission partnerships with Methodist and United Churches throughout Latin America and the R3241. Caribbean; and WHEREAS, the Coordinating Group, constituted Petition Number: 20269-GM-R3241; Kemper, Thomas - by bishops of The United Methodist Church, New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global bishops/presidents of the Methodist and United Ministries. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1177

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A Covenant to Care: AIDS in USA national surveillance data does not record the hearing status of people with HIV/AIDS, the Department of Amend current Resolution 3241 as follows: Health and Human Services believes that deaf and hard #3241 A Covenant to Care: Recognizing and of hearing people have been disproportionately infected Responding to the Many Faces of AIDs in the USA with HIV.3 United Methodists have been in ministry since the As of December 2001 2006, according to CDC beginning of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. They have fol- estimates, 850,000 to 950,000 more than one million lowed the way of healing, ministry, hospitality, and serv- people in the United States were infected with HIV. ice shown by Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel of One-quarter of these were unaware of their status! Luke (4:16-21), Jesus identified himself and his task Approximately 40,000 56,300 new HIV infections occur with that of the servant Lord, the one who was sent to each year: about 70 75 percent men and 30 25 percent bring good tidings to the afflicted, hope to the broken- women. Of these newly infected people, almost half are hearted, liberty to the captives, and comfort to all who younger than 25. Almost half of the men are African mourn, giving them the oil of gladness and the mantle of Americans, 30 percent are white, 20 17 percent are praise instead of a faint spirit (Isaiah 61:1-3). God’s Hispanic. Among newly infected women, approximately Word calls us to a ministry of healing, a ministry that 64 percent are African American, 18 percent are white, understands healing not only in physiological terms but and 18 percent are Hispanic. A small percentage of men also as wholeness of spiritual, mental, physical, and and women are part of other racial/ethnic groups.4 No social being. longer is HIV a disease of white gay men or of the east The Context of Caring Ministry in the United States and west coast; it has not been for more than a decade. In recent years, AIDS in the United States has In 2001 2007, 39 40 percent of persons with AIDS were received less media attention, but that does not mean the living in the South, 29 percent in the Northeast, 19 20 disease has gone away. Though medical drugs can pro- percent in the West, 10 11 percent in the Midwest, and long the life of people who have been infected, there is 3 percent in the US territories.5 no cure for AIDS. Not only must our commitment to United Methodists churches, districts, and confer- ministry continue, but it must also expand, particularly in the area of prevention education. ences can help to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS by pro- HIV/AIDS affects and infects a broad cross-section viding sound, comprehensive, age-appropriate and of people in the United States and Puerto Rico: all ages, culturally sensitive preventive education, including all races, both sexes, all sexual orientations. The cumu- information that abstinence from both sex and injection lative number of AIDS cases reported to the Centers for drug use is the safest way to prevent HIV/AIDS. In addi- Disease Control (CDC) through December 2001 2008 is tion, the church can provide grounding in Christian val- 816,149 1,106,391. Adult and adolescent AIDS cases ues, something that cannot be done in public schools or total 807074 with 851,974 among males and 141,048 in governmental publications on HIV/AIDS. 211,804 among females.1 Youth and Young Adults: AIDs is increasingly In the early 1980s, most people with AIDS were affecting and infecting our next generation of leaders, gay white men. Overall incidences of new cases of AIDS particularly among racial and ethnic minorities. In the increased rapidly through the 1980s, peaked in the early United States, HIV is the fifth leading cause of death for 1990s, and then declined. However, new cases of AIDS people between the ages of 25 and 44. Among African among African Americans increased. By 1996, more American men in this age group, HIV has been the lead- cases of AIDS were reported among African Americans ing cause of death since 1991. In 1999, among African than any other racial/ethnic population. The number of American women, 25 to 44 years old, HIV was the third people diagnosed with AIDS has also increased among leading cause of death. Many of these young adults Hispanics, Asians/Pacific Islanders, and Native were infected in their teens and early twenties. At least Americans/Alaska Natives. with American Indians and half of all new HIV infections are estimated to be among Alaska Natives in 2005 ranking 3rd after African people under 25 with the majority of infections occur- Americans and Hispanics.2 In 2001 2005, the rate of ring through sexual contact. In 2007, African American adult/adolescent AIDS cases per 100,000 population blacks and Latinos/Hispanics accounted for 87% of all was 76.3 71.3 among African Americans, 28.0 27.8 new HIV infections among 13 to 19 year olds and 79% among Hispanics, 11.7 10.4 among Native of HIV infections among 20 to 24 year olds in the Americans/Alaska Natives, 7.9 8.8 among whites, and United States even though, together they represent only 4.8 7.4 among Asians/Pacific Islanders.2 Though about 32% of people these ages.6 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1178

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Racial and Ethnic Minorities: African Americans, dles), drug use is also fueling the heterosexual spread of Hispanics and Native Americans have been dispropor- the epidemic. A significant proportion of women tionately infected with HIV/AIDS. Representing only infected sexually were infected by injection drug-using an estimated 12 percent of the total US population, men. Reducing the toll of the epidemic among women African Americans make up almost 38 percent half, 45 will require efforts to combat substance abuse and percent of all AIDS cases reported in the country. reduce HIV risk behaviors.11 Almost 63 percent of all women reported with AIDS People who are Deaf, Late Deafened, and Hard of were African American. While there were fewer new Hearing: In the United States, as many as 40,000 deaf HIV infections among black women than black men in and hard-of-hearing individuals are believed to be living 2006, CDC’s new analysis finds that black women are with HIV disease. studies on the deaf or hard of hearing far more affected by HIV than women of other races.7 are limited and it is unclear how many people in this It is critical to prevent patterns of risky behaviors subpopulation are living with HIV/AIDS. Estimates fall that may lead to HIV infection before they start. Clear into a wide range of 8,000 to 40,000 people.12 Health communications between parents and their children experts suspect that HIV prevalence in the deaf commu- about sex, drugs, and AIDS is an important step. Church, nity may be higher than in the hearing community, but school, and community based prevention education is comprehensive data is lacking. An indicator is that one another step. Youth and young adults must be actively in seven deaf people has a history of substance abuse, involved in this process, including peer education. compared with one in ten hearing people. The National The large and growing Hispanic population in the Center for Health Statistics reports that adults with hear- United States is also heavily affected by HIV/AIDS. In ing loss have poorer health and increased risk of engag- 2000, Hispanics represented 13 percent of the US popu- ing in health risk behaviors than adults with good lation (including residents of Puerto Rico) but accounted hearing. The rate of substance use disorder among deaf for 19 percent of the total number of new cases of AIDS or hard of hearing is higher than among the general pop- reported that year. Although Hispanics accounted for ulation. Substance use, in turn, is linked to higher risk 14.4% of the United States population in 2005, they for HIV infections12 Research has also shown that deaf accounted for 18.9% of persons who received an AIDS high school students have much less knowledge about diagnosis.8 HIV transmission than their hearing counterparts. Women: AIDS among women has been mostly “an Undergraduate deaf college students scored significantly invisible epidemic” even though women have been lower on the HIV/AIDS Knowledge Index than hearing affected and infected since the beginning. AIDS has undergraduate students. This lack of knowledge about increased most dramatically among women of color. HIV disease contributes to the fact that the deaf are often Women of color are especially impacted by the disease.9 not diagnosed with HIV until symptomatic and die African American and Hispanic women together repre- sooner than hearing individuals.12 Because 75 percent of sent less than 25 percent of all women in the United the culturally deaf community uses American Sign States, yet account for more than 75 percent of reported Language (ASL) as their primary means of communica- cases of AIDS. In 2000, African American and Hispanic tion, ASL is the most effective means of communication women represented an even greater proportion (80 per- of HIV/AIDS information for this group; but the mes- cent) of cases of AIDS reported in women. Of newly sage must be clear. At a United Methodist HIV/AIDS infected women in 2001, approximately 64 percent were event in 2002, a speaker noted that deaf people have died African American and 18 percent were Hispanic. The and others have delayed medical treatment because they majority of female adult and adolescents living with an believed themselves healthy when they saw the sign for HIV diagnosis in 2008 were infected with the virus “HIV” and “positive” conveyed to them in ASL. They through heterosexual contact (73%). An estimated 15% thought HIV positive meant “good result” and did not of diagnosed HIV infections in 2009 among females realize that they were being told they were infected. were attributed to injection drug use.10 Of the total num- Many people erroneously assume that American Sign ber of new HIV infections in US women in 2009, 57% Language (ASL) users have high English proficiency, occurred in blacks, 21% were in whites, and 16% were but the truth is that ASL has its own grammar and syn- in Hispanic/Latinas.11 In 2000, 38 percent of women tax and communicates in concepts. As a result, HIV pre- reported with AIDS were infected through sexual con- vention and treatment materials are often culturally tact with HIV-positive men while injection drug use inappropriate and linguistically incomprehensible for accounted for 25 percent of cases. In addition to the the deaf and hard of hearing.12 It should also be noted direct risks associated with drug injections (sharing nee- that over 98 percent of those with hearing loss, includ- 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1179

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ing many elderly people, do not know sign language. In ond, to help infected people stay healthy; and third, to prevention education contexts, assistive listening sys- help infected individuals initiate and sustain behaviors tems and devices, such as “pocket talkers,” should be that will keep themselves safe and prevent transmission used to aid those who are hard of hearing. Developing to others.14 Efforts such as needle exchange programs communication methods appropriate for the deaf or hard need to be implemented and/or expanded in order for the of hearing may help reduce health risk behaviors in this spread of HIV to be reduced. population and ensure equal access to health services. The Challenge for Ministry These methods may include peer to peer communica- Across the United States, in churches large and tion, as research suggests that the deaf are more likely to small, pastors and laity have asked, “What can my learn from each other rather than from formal informa- church do?” Churches can build on areas which are tion sources.12 already doing well; they can covenant to care. Churches Older adults: The number of those persons aged 50 and other United Methodist organizations need to con- years and older infected living with HIV/AIDS is tinue or begin compassionate ministry with persons liv- increasing at twice the rate of those under 50, according ing with HIV/AIDS and their loved ones. In terms of to experts on aging at Baylor College of Medicine in prevention education, United Methodists have an oppor- Houston who are targeting older Americans for safer sex tunity to teach not only the facts about HIV transmission education. has been increasing in recent years.13 The and how to prevent infection but to relate these facts to myth that older people are sexually inactive has pro- Christian values. Congregations can do HIV/AIDS pre- duced dreaded consequences. The most prevalent behav- vention education in broader contexts, such as human ior risks for older adults are multiple sexual partners and sexuality and holistic health, as well as addressing soci- having a partner with risk behavior. Since they are not etal problems, such as racism, sexism, addition, and worried about pregnancy, older couples are less likely to poverty. use condoms and, therefore, increase their risk of infec- We call on United Methodists to respond: tion. Most older people mistakenly believe that if they 1. Churches should be places of openness and car- are heterosexual and don’t inject drugs, they cannot get ing for persons with AIDS and their loved ones. We ask AIDS. In 2005, persons aged 50 and older accounted for congregations to work to overcome attitudinal and 24% of persons living with HIV/AIDs (increased from behavioral barriers in church and community that create 17% in 2001). Some older persons may be less knowl- stigma and discrimination of persons with AIDS and edgeable about HIV/AIDS and therefore less likely their loved ones. Congregations can offer Christian hos- to protect themselves.13 Reaching this group of people pitality and become arks of refuge to all. We must with HIV prevention messages means exploring avenues remember that: such as church, widows’ support groups at senior cen- • the face that AIDS wears is always the face of a ters, and Golden Age Clubs at community centers and person created and loved by God; churches. • the face that AIDS wears is always the face of a Drug-Associated HIV Transmission: Since the epi- person who is someone’s mother or father, husband or demic began, injection drug use (IDU) has directly and wife, son or daughter, brother or sister, loved one or best indirectly accounted for more than one-third (36 percent) friend; of AIDS cases in the US. Racial and ethnic minorities in • the face that AIDS wears is always the face of a the US are most heavily affected by IDU-associated person who is the most important person in someone AIDS. In 2000, IDU-associated AIDS accounted for 26 else’s life. percent of all cases among African Americans and 31 per- 2. Each congregation and annual conference, cent among Hispanic adults and adolescents, compared through their Church and Society committees, should with 19 percent of all cases among white adults/adoles- mobilize persons for legislative advocacy at the local, cents. Non-injection drugs such as cocaine also contribute state and national levels to support for HIV/AIDS initia- to the spread of the epidemic when users trade sex for tives in the United States. These advocacy efforts will be drugs or money, or when they engage in risky sexual strengthened through partnerships with organizations/ behavior that they might not engage in when sober.14 coalitions who are currently involved in this issue. HIV prevention and treatment, substance abuse pre- 3. Educational efforts about AIDS should use reli- vention, and sexually transmitted disease treatment and able medical and scientific information about the dis- prevention services must be better integrated to take ease, transmission, and prevention. Spiritual resources advantage of the multiple opportunities for interven- must also be included to enable people to address issues tion—first, to help uninfected people stay that way; sec- related to discipleship, ministry, human sexuality, health 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1180

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and wholeness, and death and dying. Education helps to 6. Advocates for Youth. they learn that a member has been infected by the HIV 7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “HIV/AIDS among African Americans.” 2006. opment of sound policies, educational materials and pro- 8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “HIV/AIDS cedures related to the church school, nurseries, and other among Hispanics in the United States.” 2006. tion can save lives. 9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “HIV/AIDS among US Women.” 2008. ate response for its context. Ministries should be devel- 10. Avert (Averting HIV and AIDS). collaboration with local departments of public health 11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “HIV/AIDS and with other United Methodist, ecumenical, interfaith, among US Women.” 2009. 12. US Department of Health and Human Services, HIV/AIDS pandemic. Congregations can organize to HIV/AIDs Bureau 2008. support to those in their community who are caring at 13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC home or elsewhere for a person who has AIDS. Projects HIV/Surveillance Report, 2005. Day (December 1) and the Black Church Week of Prayer 14. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Drug- Associated HIV Transmission Continues in the United States,” for the Healing of AIDS and their loved ones, develop- 2002. ing strong general church programs for children and 15. For more information about the Covenant to Care youth that also include AIDS education, pastoral coun- Program or the church and HIV/AIDS Ministries, contact seling, recruiting volunteers, and offering meeting space UMCOR, General Board of global Ministries, Room 1500, 475 for community-based organizations, including groups Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10115; Voice Phone: 212 870 3871; Fax: 212 870 3624; TDD:212 870 3709. 5. The United Methodist Church has a congregational HIV/AIDS ministry called the Covenant to Care Program, whose basic principle is “If you have HIV/AIDS or are the loved one of a person who has R3244. HIV/AIDS, you are welcome here.” We commend those Petition Number: 20220-GM-R3244-G; Kemper, who have been in ministry through this program and rec- Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of ommend “Covenant to Care” to all United Methodist Global Ministries. organizations. More information is available on the General Board of Global Ministries’ Web site at UM Global AIDS Fund .15 Footnotes: Amend Resolution 3244 as follows: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report 2008. http://www.cdc.gov/ #3244 United Methodist Global AIDS Fund hiv/surveillance/resources/reports/2008report/ Distribution 2. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases WHEREAS, for twenty almost thirty years the (NIAID), Fact Sheet: HIV Statistics (December 2005). General Conference of The United Methodist Church (31 January has spoken with prophetic compassion to the global 2006) issues of HIV/AIDS. Our resolutions, however, have not 3. Department of Health and Human Services (HRSA) “Programs: The Deaf and Hard of Hearing and HIV/AIDS.” always been matched by a resolve to commit significant http://hab.hrsa.gov/programs/factsheets/deaffact.htm (4 March 2003) financial and denominational resources in the struggle 4. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for education, prevention, treatment and care in the (NIAID), Fact Sheet: HIV Statistics (December 2002). worldwide struggle against HIV/AIDS; and (31 January WHEREAS, the United Nations has now declared 2003) 5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “US HIV and the pandemic a “global emergency,” saying human life is AIDS Cases Reported through December 2007 Year-end Report.” threatened everywhere and world security is at risk as the planet faces the worst health crisis in 700 years; and 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1181

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WHEREAS, with 42 33 million people infected, sons who are not serving with on any of these agencies) more than 20 25 million already deceased, and 16,000 chosen by the committee for expertise and diversity. approximately 7,500 new infections daily, the leaders of Be it further resolved, that this Global AIDS all the nations in the world unanimously asked faith- Initiatives Committee will be responsible for the promo- based organizations to join them in the battle to save tion, use, supervision and distribution of these funds. human life; and Tthe United Methodist Global AIDS Fund Committee WHEREAS, the 2004 General Conference estab- will: lished the United Methodist Global AIDS Fund 1. assist local congregations and conferences in (UMCOR Advance #982345) and the 2008 General identifying and creating global partnerships for mutual Conference reaffirmed this global health initiative that HIV/AIDS ministry; by 2010 had funded 175 church-oriented and Christ- 2. provide support for projects sponsored by local centered HIV/AIDS projects in 37 countries plus scores congregations or organizations related to The United of Annual Conference AIDS projects; and Methodist Church, partner autonomous Methodist WHEREAS, to date the response of Christians, churches and the ecumenical church; including United Methodists, has been minimal, partic- 3. encourage partnerships between congregations ularly in comparison to our resources and other commit- and conferences in the United States and Methodist con- ments; and gregations and ecumenical organizations globally that WHEREAS, the United Methodist Global AIDS are engaged in the struggle against HIV/AIDS; Fund Committee has launched an on-going campaign 4. advocate for social justice, particularly related to called “20/20: Visioning An AIDS-Free World,” increasing governmental and nongovernmental funding and issues regarding the role of pharmaceutical compa- Therefore, be it resolved, that the 2004 2012 nies; for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria; General Conference commits itself to establishing 5. develop appropriate promotional materials and recommits itself to the United Methodist Global AIDS funding guidelines; and Fund (UMGAF).; During the 2009-2012 quadrennium, 6. Engage the leadership of a person with appropri- United Methodists will raise $3 million through appor- ate skills for a special global AIDS assignment tionments and match this with an additional $5 million (#4091c). resource United Methodists through training through Advance gifts; and networking opportunities; and Be it further resolved, that of the total money raised 7. seek funding for Committee operations from var- in each annual conference for UMGAF, 25 percent shall ious sources. be retained by the annual conference that raised it, to be used in programs combating HIV/AIDS in their region and in other global connectional projects. Each annual conference shall designate an appropriate agency for the R3395. promotion and distribution of these funds. Petition Number: 20650-GM-R3395; Paige, Peggy - Be it further resolved, that of the total money raised Iron Mountain, MI, USA for UM Rural Fellowship. in each annual conference for the United Methodist Global AIDS fund, 75 percent shall be remitted by the Delete Resolution conference treasurer to the treasurer of the General Council on Finance and Administration Advance office Delete Resolution 3395, Affirmation of Rural at the General Board of Global Ministries for distribu- Chaplains. tion to a new Global AIDS Initiatives Committee by Rationale: UMCOR in consultation with the inter-agency United The update of Resolution 3396 includes informa- Methodist Global AIDS Fund Committee. (with no more tion currently contained in Resolution 3395, therefore, than ten total representatives from The ten-member Resolution 3395 should be deleted from the Book of Committee will be comprised of one representative each Resolutions. from the General Board of Global Ministries, Council of Bishops, General Board of Church and Society, Division on Ministries with Young People, Youth and Young Adults Ministries, General Commission on Christian R3396. Unity and Interreligious Concerns, and General Petition Number: 20649-GM-R3396-G; Paige, Peggy - Commission on Communications, and three four per- Iron Mountain, MI, USA for UM Rural Fellowship. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1182

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Rural Chaplains Be it further resolved that the United Methodist Church commend and reaffirm its commitment to the Delete current Resolution 3396 and replace with the Rural Chaplains Association as rural chaplains continue following: to carry out their ministries with hurting people and Ministries of Rural Chaplains: communities; and Whereas, the General Conference for the past four Be it further resolved that the General Board of quadrennia has affirmed the Rural Chaplains Association Global Ministries be encouraged to continue an active and the ministries of rural chaplains, and called on the relationship with the Rural Chaplains Association in the United Methodist Church to prepare rural chaplains as a future. significant means of enabling renewal in towns/villages and rural churches and communities globally; and Whereas, the Rural Chaplains Association has women, men, laity and clergy members, both United R3411. Methodist and ecumenical, in the USA and some from Petition Number: 20222-GM-R3411; Kemper, Thomas - the international community; and New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Whereas, rural chaplains are lay and clergy persons Ministries. who have sensed the call to live in, work with, and advocate for town and rural persons, families, congregations Rural and Urban Ministry Plan and communities; and Whereas, special emphasis is placed on advocacy Amend Resolution 3411 as follows: for justice issues among all people, regardless of ethnic- 3411. Holy Boldness: Pathways to Transfor- ity, gender, age or economic status; and mation 2009-2012 2016 Whereas, rural chaplains meet annually for support, A United Methodist Rural and Urban Ministry Plan encouragement, networking, resourcing, and enrichment for Making Disciples of Jesus Christ for the by means of focus events to enrich person-related chap- Transformation of the World laincy-type skills, Biblical understandings and experien- Revise third paragraph as follows: tial exposures related to issues such as immigration, WHEREAS, the primary goal of the Plan calls for migrant workers, farm works, rural businesses and com- the United Methodist Church to provide a vision for the munities; and future: identify areas of focus and collaboration; organ- Whereas, rural chaplains work with other prophetic ize and mobilize financial and human resources; persons/groups on the local level who are committed to Revise eleventh paragraph and subsequent para- long-term involvement aimed at developing local and graphs as follows: outside resources to assist with transformation of the WHEREAS, urban transformation will require an lives of rural congregations and communities; and ecumenical and interfaith collaborative effort by local Whereas, the Rural Chaplains Association greatly churches working in cooperation with other denomina- empowers the development of lay leadership, serves as tional members of the Methodist family and other one way of recognizing the gifts and graces of rural peo- denominations, community organizations, businesses, ples, and unleashes new possibilities for God’s spirit to and governmental institutions; collaboration will need to move across the countryside; and occur beyond the city limits by collaborating with exur- Whereas, rural chaplains are an asset to the General ban churches that share similar challenges, and churches Board of Global Ministries in its ministry through the in suburban areas that have committed persons, four emphases of the General Church, and especially resources, and relational roots in urban neighborhoods, with the Rural Chaplains ongoing relationship with the all of which strengthen ministry; and, Rural Urban Network (RUN); and WHEREAS, collaboration will also need to occur Whereas, the Rural Chaplains Association contin- at the national level with the National Urban Strategy ues to work to expand its international/global linkages Council Rural and Urban Network Advisory Council by exposing participants to the cultural, economic, polit- and general agency teams (Global Ministries, Church ical, ecological and religious life of their people; and Society, Discipleship, Higher Education and Therefore be it resolved that Rural Chaplains con- Ministry, Religion and Race, and Communications) tinue to be recognized as having a special relationship to working together to identify common strategies that they the General Board of Global Ministries as those called to can mutually accomplish; the national strategies linking serve others; and with local strategies and needs; national collaboration 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1183

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involving the ethnic ministry plans already adopted by Deletion our Church with a particular sensitivity to those who are poor; and finally, national collaboration involving other Delete Resolution 6049. ecumenical and inter-faith bodies and national urban Rationale: resources; Relevant provisions of this resolution are proposed THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we call to be incorporated into the new resolution, “Haiti upon the general agencies, the National Urban Security Reconstruction and Development,” making R6049 Council the Rural and Urban Network Advisory redundant. Council, jurisdictional networks, annual conferences, districts, and, especially, local churches to take authority and responsibility in being holy and bold to accomplish R6070. the goals and objectives of the Plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the General Petition Number: 20211-GM-R6070; Kemper, Thomas - Board of Global Ministries Office of Urban Ministry New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Ministries. Rural and Urban Networks will be responsible for the coordination and implementation of the Plan. Deletion Objectives and action steps have been developed and will be implemented as funding is made available; and Delete Resolution 6070. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED in order to facilitate Rationale: this coordination and implementation, the Office of Relevant provisions of this resolution are proposed Urban Ministries Rural and Urban Networks will have to be incorporated into a new resolution on Cuba mak- copies of the plan available for any who wish to partner ing R6070 redundant. in this effort, and that with God’s help, we can reclaim our cities for United Methodism and, in the process, meet Christ on the streets walking with his people. R9999. Petition Number: 20212-GM-R9999-G; Kemper, Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of R3412. Global Ministries. Petition Number: 20208-GM-R3412; Kemper, Thomas - New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global Haiti Reconstruction and Development Ministries. Add new Resolution to The Book of Resolutions as Deletion follows: Haiti Reconstruction and Development Delete Resolution 3412. Psalm 11:3 “If the foundations are destroyed, what Rationale: can the righteous do?” Relevant provisions of this resolution are proposed The history of Haiti is one of both spirit and struggle. Haiti became the first independent Black republic to be merged into revisions to R3411, proposed to be re- and remains the first and only country to win independ- named, “Pathways to Transformation 2009-2016: A ence from slavery. Centuries of foreign imposition, dic- United Methodist Rural and Urban Ministry Plan for tatorship, and debt contributed to a weakening of the Making Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation nation’s infrastructure, inadequate social services, and of the World, making R3412 redundant. persistent conditions of impoverishment. Seeking employment, many people migrated from the countryside to the capital city, and hundreds of thousands of R6049. Haitians re-established life and livelihoods on other shores. Petition Number: 20210-GM-R6049; Kemper, Thomas - These conditions all contributed to the massive New York, NY, USA for General Board of Global destruction that resulted when on January 12, 2010, a Ministries. 7.0 earthquake struck Haiti. The disaster took the lives 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1184

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of more than 300,000 people, including 17 percent of 4. Urges governments and multilateral institutions government employees and destroyed nearly every gov- that have not forgiven debts owed by Haiti to do so and ernment building. More than 300,000 people were to give grants rather than loans for the reconstruction. injured, increasing the pressure on an already fragile 5. Urges non-governmental organizations working healthcare system. More than one million were left with- for development in Haiti to use a Rights-Based out homes. People throughout Haiti and the Haitian Approach, respecting the dignity of all people; strength- Diaspora continue to grapple with the impacts and are ening governmental, corporate and community sectors; paving the way forward for healing. and giving equal voice and value to women, children, In the midst of crisis are opportunities to change the and young people. cycles that have contributed to Haiti’s struggles. The 6. Ensures that women play meaningful, sustained Haitian people are Haiti’s greatest strength. The earth- and formal roles in the long-term reconstruction efforts quake, in spite of its tragic dimensions, has obliged them and in the design, implementation and monitoring of aid and the international community to examine the causes programs; measure should be taken to protect women of Haiti’s chronic underdevelopment and impoverish- from sexual violence, particularly in temporary settle- ment. It provides an opportunity for the Haitian people ments; enable grassroots and other women’s organiza- to demand and work toward a different future, the fruit tions to build their capacity to function effectively as of seeds sown and partnerships forged today. development and social justice promoters. The United Methodist Church is deeply committed 7. Calls on the U.S. government to create an expe- to a long term relationship with the Eglise Méthodiste dited Haitian Family Reunification Parole Program to d’Haiti (EMH) and other organizations that lasts beyond allow thousands of Haitians who reside legally in the the season of immediate relief needs. We continue to U.S., many as U.S. citizens, to bring their family mem- partner with Haitians and the global community in pro- bers from Haiti to the U.S. (as part of the Church’s over- viding humanitarian assistance and economic empower- all call to support reunifying families, see “Welcoming ment. In the year following the earthquake, significant the Migrant to the U.S.” 2008 Book of Resolutions contributions were made from the United Methodist #3281). Church. The funds are being invested in rebuilding Haiti 8. Urges United Methodists to create local pro- in a way that strengthens the capacity of the people and grams which deepen the awareness and understanding of to develop a sustainable infrastructure. Haiti, its history and culture and to engage members of As we partner with the people of Haiti, we embrace the US Haitian Diaspora in these programs. the faith and hope depicted by the prophet Isaiah: “The 9. Invites those who seek to accompany our broth- Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs ers and sisters in Haiti in responding directly to the in parched places, and make your bones strong...Your needs in Haiti to discuss strategies for recovery with ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foun- Global Ministries and coordinate efforts through EMH dations of many generations; you shall be called the and in cooperation with the United Methodist repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in.” Committee on Relief. (Isaiah 58:11a & 12) 10. Urges The United Methodist Church and its To this end, the General Conference of The United congregations to collaborate with the EMH, Grace Methodist Church: Children’s Hospital, Global Health Action and other 1. Shares in the sorrow for all the lives lost in the partners to increase the long-term capacity of the health earthquake and continues to pray with the Haitian peo- care infrastructure of the country. ple for continued strength of spirit. 2. Recognizes the need for Haitians to lead the reconstruction efforts of their country and calls on governments, the United Nations and multilateral institu- R9999. tions to work with the Haitian government, Haitian civil Petition Number: 20435-GM-R9999-G; Pasion, Earlie - society, and the Haitian Diaspora, to rebuild the country Cauayan City, Philippines for Global Young People’s in a way that is stronger than it was before the earth- Convocation and Legislative Assembly. quake. 3. Encourages financial support through The Bringing Justice to Gatumba Genocide Advance to ensure that 100% of the funds are used for long term relief and development efforts in an account- Add a new Resolution to the Book of Resolutions as able and responsible manner. follows: 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1185

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WHEREAS, during the night of August 13, 2004, individuals brought to justice from committing similar in a refugee camp in Burundi, Africa, called Gatumba, atrocities in the future; now therefore, 166 innocents from the Democratic Republic of Congo BE IT RESOLVED, that The Global Young (DRC) were mercilessly slaughtered by armed factions People’s Convocation and Legislative Assembly meet- and 116 other victims were maimed and injured; ing in Berlin, Germany, calls upon the International WHEREAS, almost all the 166 people killed and Criminal Court, the Government of Burundi, and the the 116 people injured were members of the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Banyamulenge tribe, that had earlier been forced from to investigate the August 13, 2004, attack on the their homes in the southern Kivu region of the DRC; Gatumba refugee camp, to name the individuals and WHEREAS, the report S/2004/821 of October 5, groups responsible, and to bring these individuals to 2004, of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in justice; and DRC concluded that the massacres of Banyamulenge in BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Global the camp of Gatumba were planned and only the Young People’s Convocation and Legislative Assembly Congolese Tutsi were targeted. The report of human calls upon the next General Conference of The United rights declared also that the massacres of Banyamulenge Methodist Church to call upon the International in the camp of Gatumba were planned, consequently Criminal Court, the Government of Burundi and the only Banyamulenge ethnic were targeted; government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to WHEREAS, Pasteur Habimana, FNL- investigate the August 13, 2004, attack on the Gatumba PALIPEHUTU’s spokesman of Agathon Rwasa recog- refugee camp, name the individuals and groups respon- nized the responsibility of this movement in the sible and bring these individuals to justice. massacres of Banyamulenge refugees; Rationale: WHEREAS, there is evidence that the massacres To put international pressure to bring the perpetra- were perpetuated by FNL-PALIPEHUTU, FDLR com- tors of Gatumba genocide to justice for purposes of posed by Interahamwe that committed genocide in aking a stand against genocide, healing of the victims’ Rwanda, and Mai-Mai under authority of Col. families and preventing future atrocities from happen- Nakabaka, Baleke, Ekofo, jointly with DRC’s soldiers ing. chaired by General Budja Mabe and Col. Mutupeke; WHEREAS, there has been no one brought to justice by the DRC, Government of Burundi, or the International Criminal Court; and R9999. WHEREAS, there is still violence in the form of Petition Number: 20443-GM-R9999-G; Sachen, Kristin killing, burning houses, rape, and terror being perpe- L. - San Francisco, CA, USA for California-Nevada trated against the Banyamulenge people; Annual Conference. WHEREAS, the International Rescue Committee released a study in January 2008, which found that con- East Turkistan flict and humanitarian crisis in Congo may have claimed the lives of 5.4 million people since 1998 and continue Be it resolved that The United Methodist Church to leave as many as 45,000 dead each month—making it supports self-determination and independence of the the world’s deadliest crisis since World War II; people and land of East Turkistan (Xinjiang Uyghur WHEREAS, that the people of The United Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China); Methodist Church cannot remain silent when faced with Be it further resolved that The United Methodist acts of genocide; Church support the United Nations’ efforts to protect the WHEREAS, that the people of The United human rights of all Uyghurs and other peoples of East Methodist Church cannot remain silent when there is Turkistan (Xinjiang) (including political prisoners) violence perpetrated against innocent men, women, and wherever they live and to preserve the distinct religious, children; and cultural, and linguistic heritage of the people of East WHEREAS, that although the seeking of justice for Turkistan; and the Gatumba genocide will not address all the current Be it further resolved that the general boards and issues of violence in the DRC, it will send a message agencies of The United Methodist Church continue to that such blatant planned acts shall not be tolerated by monitor this situation and provide opportunities for the international community and it will stop the specific United Methodist church members to advocate for 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1186

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justice for the people of East Turkistan (Xinjiang), Korea including political prisoners. Rationale: Add a new resolution to the Book of Resolutions as Following our 2009-2012 Social Principles shown below: Paragraphs 162.III. The Social Community B) Rights of • The United Methodist Church supports a peace- Religious Minorities; 164. V. The Political Community ful diplomatic engagement between the United States A) Basic Freedoms and Human Rights; and 165.VI. The (USA) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea World Community A) Nations and Cultures, we resolve (DPRK) to end the Korean War. the following: • The USA and the DPRK enter into a peace treaty and normalize their relations. • The USA support the process of healing and reconciliation between two Koreas for peaceful reunifica- R9999. tion with mutually acceptable ways. • The USA cooperates with other nations in the Petition Number: 20478-GM-R9999-G; Jackson, process of developing a viable and long lasting peace Fredric O. - White Plains, NY, USA for New York regime in the Far East and Pacific Rim. Annual Conference. 1 similar petition. Rationale: The USA and DPRK are legally at war under the A Call for Peace March Armistice Agreement in 1953, threatening the peace and stability of Korea and the Northeast Asia. The division WHEREAS The Book of Resolutions contains between North and South Korea devastated the life of “Korea: Peace, Justice, and Reunification,” a comprehen- Koreans and has created ten million separated families, sive resolution on Korea’s peace, first adopted in 1988 and never seeing each other since. then amended and readopted in 2000, 2004, and 2008, and WHEREAS the year 2013 marks the 60th anniversary of the armistice of the Korean War, and WHEREAS the cycle of 60 years marks a new begin- R9999. ning in Asia, a concept similar to the biblical Jubilee, and Petition Number: 20510-GM-R9999-G; Sidorak, BE IT RESOLVED that The United Methodist Stephen J. Jr. - New York, NY, USA for General Church proclaim the message of God’s peace and recon- Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious ciliation in the Korean Peninsula on July 27, 2013 on the Concerns. 60th anniversary of the armistice of the Korean War and recommend the following actions: Trail of Repentance and Healing a. Organize a peace march at the Demilitarized Zone in Korea on July 27, 2013 led by United Methodist WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church and its Episcopal leaders. predecessors have acknowledged an historic desire to b. Organize a peace march in Washington D.C. on spread the good news of the gospel yet in many cases July 27, 2013. have caused indignities, cultural genocide and atrocities c. Seek the support for these peace marches from against tribal persons, and WHEREAS, God has been present with all persons the Korean Methodist Church, the World Methodist since creation, and through prevenient grace has been a Council, the National Council of Churches of the United living and moving Spirit among the world’s diverse cul- States, and the World Council of Churches. tures; and in many parts of the world, to become a d. Organize a taskforce for peace in Korea to pre- Christian may mean one is expected to abandon one’s pare for these peace marches. culture and traditional religion, resulting in tension and division within families and tribes, and the loss of the unique identity associated with family and clan, includ- R9999. ing in some places: the requirement to stop speaking one’s own language, to change one’s clothing and hair, Petition Number: 20506-GM-R9999-G; Ryder, Jack E. - to discontinue participation in native prayer ceremonies LaGrange Park, IL, USA for Northern Illinois Annual and many cultural activities such as music and dance, Conference. and 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1187

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WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church adopted tance, and healing; and making such resources available Resolution 3322 [Confession to Native Americans] in to conferences and local congregations, 1992 and readopted the same in 2004 and 2008 recog- Therefore, be it resolved, that The United Methodist nizing the worth and dignity of all persons and our Church begin a process of healing relationships with church’s participation in the destruction of Native indigenous persons to continue throughout the quadren- American people, culture and religious practices, and nium and beyond that necessarily includes such activi- WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church adopted ties as using study guides and resources; Resolution 135 [Support Restitution to the Cheyenne self-examination, discovering the ongoing impact of his- and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma for the Sand Creek toric traumas; confessing our own participation in the Massacre] in 1996 acknowledging the genocide of continuing effects of that trauma; building relationships almost 200 persons, mostly women and children, at a with indigenous persons wherever we, the church, are; U.S. peace camp in an attack led by a Methodist building those relationships through listening and being preacher, Col John Chivington, and present with indigenous persons; working beside indige- WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church adopted nous persons to seek solutions to current problems; Petition 80158 [Sand Creek Massacre National Historic advocating and resourcing programs which are self- Site Support] in 2008 to contribute $50,000 toward the determined by native and indigenous persons to be part development of the Sand Creek Massacre National of the healing process; and holding an Act of Historic Site Research and Learning Center for promot- Repentance Service for the Healing of Relationships ing awareness of the site and for its use for Native with Indigenous Persons in each conference, and American services of remembrance and commemora- Be it further resolved, that every conference, and every local congregation of The United Methodist Church tion, and develop and nurture relationships with the indigenous WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church adopted persons of the place where that conference resides Resolution 121 [Healing Relationships with Indigenous through a process of deep listening and learning, and Persons] in 2000, readopted as Resolution 133 in 2004, Be it further resolved, that every conference, and and revised and readopted as Resolution 3323 in 2008 every local congregation of The United Methodist that recognized that the history of Christianity’s spread Church is encouraged to implement specific actions to across the world often accompanied by actions which demonstrate a genuine attitude of repentance such as damaged the culture, life ways and spirituality of indige- 1) encourage and resource the education and training of nous persons, and indigenous leadership including laity and pastors, by WHEREAS, Resolution 3323 directs the 2012 providing culturally sensitive learning environments, General Conference of The United Methodist Church to 2) wherever the church is holding land and/or property hold an Act of Repentance Service for the Healing of in trust, consider transferring a portion of that land Relationships with Indigenous Persons which would and/or property or its income to indigenous persons’ launch study, dialogue, and acts of repentance in all con- projects, and 3) in conjunction with ¶2547.2, whenever ferences over the following quadrennium, and a conference entity is closing a charge or holds excess WHEREAS, an Act of Repentance service is a first land, consider transferring any land and property to an step in launching a process of healing relationships with indigenous community, and indigenous persons throughout the world in order to be Be it further resolved, that full implementation of the living and resurrected body of Christ in the world, the recommendations in this resolution be proposed to and the Council of Bishops for consideration, and WHEREAS, a call to repentance is followed by Be it further resolved, that Bishops of The United confession, and confession is followed by a call for a Methodist Church shall provide spiritual leadership and change for the better as a result of remorse or contrition pastoral guidance for the fulfillment of this essential for one’s sins, and work to heal the soul of our church, our people and the WHEREAS, the General Commission on Christian land. Unity & Interreligious Concerns (GCCUIC) was Rationale: charged in Resolution 3323 with the responsibility of This Resolution is the fruit of the General planning the 2012 General Conference event; the neces- Conference’s direction in Resolution 3323, “Healing sary study; development of resources, models and Relationships with Indigenous Persons.” The provisions guidelines for building relationships with indigenous within are created to ensure that the 2012 Act of persons in preparation for a process of listening, repen- Repentance will be followed with tangible results. 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1188

1188 DCA Advance Edition R9999. implications of the Doctrine of Discovery and its effects on Indigenous Peoples world wide. For The United Petition Number: 20831-GM-R9999-G; Marshall, Anne, Methodist Church to repent for past sins it needs to be OK, USA for Native American International Caucus. aware of this ancient doctrine... Doctrine of Discovery

DOCTRINE OF DISCOVERY R9999. Whereas, in 2007 the United Nations passed the “Declaration of Indigenous Peoples” which called into Petition Number: 20870-GM-R9999-G; Perez-Galang, question the validity of the Christian Doctrine of Laddie - Vacaville, CA, USA for Western Jurisdiction Discovery, which for centuries served as “legal” ration- Inter-Ethnic Coordinating Committee. ale for stealing land and dehumanizing aboriginal peoples, as well as justification for the establishment of Border Ministry in the Western Jurisdiction boarding schools throughout North America to “civi- Whereas, there is an unprecedented number of lize” Indian children; and deportations taking place today that dramatically affect Whereas, in 2009 President Obama pledged to the the lives of millions of people in the US and Mexico, Native people the United State’s support of the The United Methodist Church needs to partner with the “Declaration of Indigenous Peoples”; and Methodist Church of Mexico in ministry to these depor- Whereas, “The Declaration of Indigenous Peoples” tees left in the border towns with no resources to relo- seeks to right the historical wrongs through the use of cate to their places of origin. From January 2009 to July the Papal Bull of The Roman Catholic Church which are of 2011, there had been 1,107,415 deportations official decrees by the Pope sanctioning the seizing of [Downloaded September 13, 2011 from indigenous lands worldwide; and ]. Because the crossing to the US without declaring war against all non Christians throughout the the proper documentation has become a titanic effort, world and sanctioning and promoting the conquest, col- our neighbors from the south receive a massive number onization and exploitation of non-Christian nations and of deportees every week, and their territories; and Whereas migrants around the world are forced to Whereas, in 1453 Spain was given rights of con- leave their homes for economic reasons and foreign quest and dominion over one side of the globe and policies of developed countries aggravate their already Portugal the other; and affected economic status, with more than 240 million of Whereas, in 1823 the Christian Doctrine of them moving around the world continually in search of Discovery was adopted into law by the U.S. Supreme a better life, and an estimated of 23% of the world’s Court (Johnson V. McIntosh). Chief Justice Marshall migration arrives in North America, and observed that Christian European nations had assumed Whereas the numbers of deaths of undocumented dominion over the lands of America-upon discovery- migrant workers wanting to cross to the US has reached Indians had lost their rights to complete sovereignty as an unprecedented number, with an average of 200 deaths independent nations and retained a mere right of occu- recorded every year in the Arizona desert and between pancy in their lands. 1995 and 2004 more than 2,640 migrants have died Therefore be it resolved, all levels of The United intending to cross the United States and Mexico border, Methodist Church is called to condemn the Doctrine of and since 2004 more than one undocumented migrant Discovery as a legal document and basis for the seizing has died per day in the effort to cross, and of native lands and abuses of human rights of Indigenous Whereas the number of deportations (from 2009 to Peoples; and July of 2011 deportations equaled 1,107,415: 389,834 in Be it further resolved, that the United Methodist 2009, 392,862 in 2010, and 324,719 in 2011, more than Church will work toward eliminating the Doctrine of the number of deportations combined in the last ten Discovery as a means to subjugate Indigenous peoples years) continues to impact both sides of the US and of property and land. Mexico border as US families are being separated from Rationale: family members; our neighbors from the southwest To bring attention to and to educate The United receive a massive number of deportees every week, esti- Methodist Church on the damaging results and further mating that 1,000 of them wander around the border of 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:24 AM Page 1189

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Tijuana every day with no help, and the programs trying a) Include the impact of deportation on the to address this need are too few to provide help for so Mexican side of the border by intentionally planning and many of them, and providing resources to respond to the needs of families Whereas the growing fear of terrorist attacks has that are trapped in the border struggle. mobilized the Department of Homeland Security to b) Work to challenge the criminalization of make the crossing of the border for undocumented migrants by law enforcement agents in Mexico resulting migrant workers a Herculean effort, for there are almost from the bad propaganda originating in the US that only 21,000 border patrol agents at this moment, more than migrants with criminal records are deported. twice as many as there were in 2004, working to stop 2) The General Board of Church & Society, The undocumented migration; as of May of 2011, 17,659 of General Commission on Religion and Race, and The them stationed along the southwest border with Mexico, General Board of Global Ministries and The Women’s which is the contributing factor to the steady decline in Division: the flows of undocumented migration in recent years a) Work with national and international civil rights, (the November 2006 annual report made by the Office of human rights and migrant rights organizations to Immigration Statistics reported that apprehensions, develop resources and advocacy materials for use in bor- detentions of foreign nationals has been drastically der cities in Mexico that are impacted by the unprece- reduced from 1,291,000 in 2005 [Downloaded dented number of deportations. September 14, 2011 from http://www.dhs.gov/ b) Mobilize congregations to support programs xlibrary/assets/statistics/yearbook/2005/Enforcement_A outside the US that are responding to the deportation R_05.pdf] to 517,000 in 2010 [Downloaded September impact. 14, 2011 from http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/statis- c) Work in collaboration with CONAM (Comisión tics/publications/enforcement-ar-2010.pdf]) forcing Nacional de Asuntos Migratorios) of the Methodist undocumented crossers to walk the Arizona desert Church of Mexico to educate and advocate for the rights where they lose their life, and of women, men and children who face the challenges of Whereas our Methodist tradition based on the adapting to a new way of life as a result of their depor- Judeo-Christian values reminds us that we are to care for tation. the sojourners by loving them as ourselves and providing for their welfare instead of oppressing them (Leviticus 19:30), just as Jesus modeled for us and identified with them and calls us to provide hospitality to the R9999. sojourners (Matthew 25:38-40), for he says: “Whatever Petition Number: 20871-GM-R9999-G; Perez-Galang, you did for one of the least of these, you did it for me,” Laddie - Vacaville, CA, USA. 1 similar petition. (Matthew 25:40); and by doing so we spread scriptural holiness throughout the land and participate in our own End Impunity in the Philippines salvation, and Whereas without addressing immigration reform, “Indeed, the extra-judicial killings, enforced disap- the crackdown, criminalization, imprisonment and pearances and other forms of human rights violations deportation of productive undocumented migrants, will were conducted with impunity as the perpetrators continue to occur, separation of families, death in the remain free and exempted from justice while the victims desert, division of communities, and frustration of the are vilified and dismissed as subversives and undeserv- future of so many talented Dreamers will continue to ing of any of form of justice. . . . People have been take place, offended, profaned, and outraged by an artist’s work. Yet, Therefore, the General Conference requests that the what greater offense, profanity, and outrage can there be Inter-Agency Task Force and specific general agencies than the violation and destruction, with impunity, of that named below, having demonstrated deep commitment to most real and live image of God—the human being? . . . and success in addressing immigration issues generally, The effects of impunity will continue to scar the people mobilize and respond to the impacts of deportation out- of this country, impairing seriously family and commu- side of the United States and specifically in Mexico nity relations now and in the future, be they the children, including but not limited to the following measures: relatives, and friends of the victims or the children, rel- 1) The Inter-Agency Task Force on Immigration, atives and friends of those who perpetrate human rights representing the Council of Bishops, Agencies and abuses. We have seen and continue to see its tragic racial/ethnic caucuses: results on our social fiber—broken community relations, 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:25 AM Page 1190

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the forced migration of our people, the destruction of • Independent probe of May 10, 2010 elections our natural resources and sovereignty and national dig- • Suspend/review Visiting Forces Agreement; nity seriously compromised. It must be stopped.” Father expel US forces Rex R.B. Reyes, Jr.—General Secretary of National • Immediately resume and genuinely advance for- Council of Churches in the Philippines. mal peace talks with NDFP and MILF. “President Aquino’s avowed commitment for human rights is starting to unravel. While the record of former president Macapagal-Arroyo remains unbeaten, I am afraid that President Aquino’s record could turn out R9999. worse given the rise in human rights abuses under his Petition Number: 20872-GM-R9999-G; Perez-Galang, watch,” he said. Laddie - Vacaville, CA, USA. “Former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo would do well to answer the many questions regarding her Pursue Formal Peace Talk accountability not only for the massive corruption and fraud under her administration, but also on her responsi- The Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP), bility for the gross human rights violations under her the broadest ecumenical formation of church leaders watch,” said Cristina Palabay, convenor of the End advocating for the formal peace negotiations between Impunity Alliance. the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Under the Arroyo administration, Karapatan says it National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), is has documented 1,206 victims of extrajudicial killings, alarmed over recent pronouncements of both sides that 206 victims of enforced disappearances and thousands may not auger well for the continuation of the formal more victims of other forms of abuses. peace talks. Since Aquino assumed office on July 1, 2010, up to After the spark of hope that was brought about by July 21, 2011, Karapatan says it has already documented the GPH-NDFP formal peace talks last February, which produced the February 21, 2011 Oslo Joint Statement, 50 cases of extrajudicial killings, eight cases of enforced the recent pronouncements to the media from both GPH disappearances and more than a hundred cases of illegal Peace Panel Chair Atty. Alex Padilla and NDFP Peace arrests and detentions. Panel Spokesperson, Fidel Agcaolli, bodes for another “Impunity prevails because no one has been put postponement of the formal talks. The talk was post- behind bars for the violations up to the present. Thus, it poned already last June and they feel that another post- is important that freedom-loving individuals call on the ponement may truly derail the peace negotiations. Aquino administration to decisively stop human rights The PEPP also encourages both sides to abide by violations in the country and end the reigning climate of their own reaffirmation of the validity and binding effect impunity by ensuring justice is rendered to victims.” of all previous bilateral agreements as stated in the (Source: ) One of the major developments last February was Therefore, be it resolved, for The United Methodist the setting up of a timetable for the negotiations. For Church to urge Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” advocates, the schedules indicated in the timetable can Aquino, Jr., to end impunity and stop human rights vio- be guideposts to peace. They call on both panels to work lations in the Philippines. hard in order to meet the proposed schedules. If both Be it further resolved for The United Methodist sides abide by this, and try to build bridges instead of Church to urge Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” hurdles, and they reiterate this - through principled Aquino, Jr., to order the landowners (Cojuangcos, negotiations - our country will enjoy what the Psalmist Arroyos, Ayalas, Sys, etc.) to return the land to their promised, “a future awaits those who seek peace” rightful owners, the farmers. (Psalms 37:37). Be it further resolved for The United Methodist (Source: Most Rev. DEOGRACIAS S. INIGUEZ, Church to support, endorse, and help promote IBON JR., D.D.—Head of the Secretariat; Archbishop ANTO- Foundation’s “Challenges for Democracy”: NIO J. LEDESMA, SJ, DD Ms. SHARON ROSE JOY •Investigate/ prosecute former President Gloria RUIZ-DUREMDES—Co-chairpersons August 28, Macapagal-Arroyo/allies for electoral fraud, corruption, 2011) along with military/ police for serious human rights vio- Therefore, be it resolved, for The United Methodist lations Church to urge Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:25 AM Page 1191

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Aquino, Jr., to order the immediate continuation and exchange of goods, acquiring goods for industrialization genuinely advance formal peace talks with NDFP and and guaranteeing energy supply. MILF. 10. Inaugurate a truce between the warring forces Be it further resolved for The United Methodist of the GRP and NDFP for the purpose of alliance and Church to urge Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” other constructive purposes as stated above. Aquino, Jr., and its administration to accept NDFP’s “10-Point Proposal for a Concise Agreement for an Immediate Just Peace”: 1. Unite the Filipino people through a broad R9999. alliance of patriotic and progressive forces and a clean Petition Number: 20957-GM-R9999-G; Carlsen, and honest coalition government for genuine national Jonathan - Arcadia, FL, USA. independence and democracy against any foreign domi- nation or control and against subservience. Religious Liberty 2. Empower the toiling masses of workers and peasants by respecting their democratic rights and pro- Add new Resolution: viding for their significant representation in organs of Religious Liberty the coalition government and for assistance to the organ- The United Methodist Church, as a worldwide izations, programs and projects of the toiling masses. denomination, declares religious liberty, the freedom of 3. Uphold economic sovereignty, carry out belief, to be a basic human right. Filipino-owned national industrialization and land Biblical/Theological Basis of Religious Liberty reform and oppose imperialist plunder and bureaucratic Religious liberty has its roots in the Bible. Our con- and military corruption in order to develop the national victions concerning religious liberty are inferred directly economy. from what the Bible teaches about the reciprocal duties 4. Cancel the foreign debt and reduce the appro- between government and the individual and about how priations for the military and other armed organization God deals with each individual. of the GRP in order to provide adequate resources and Jesus Christ taught: “Give to the emperor the things savings for economic development, improvement of the that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are means of livelihood, the alleviation of poverty, the real- God’s” (Mark 12:17). This means that both government ization of gender equality, promotion of children’s rights and God have just claims on the individual. But when and welfare and healthy environment. government claims for itself what belongs to God 5. Promote and support a patriotic, scientific and alone—worship or the religious conscience—government pro-people culture through the educational system, mass overreaches its bounds. Government is God’s appointed media and mass organizations, cherish the cultural her- instrument to keep order and execute justice. It may col- itage of the Filipino nation and all the ethno-linguistic lect taxes and regulate behavior (Romans 13:1-7). But it communities in the country. cannot command the conscience. 6. Recognize the right to self-determination and Moreover, the Bible clearly teaches that God has autonomy of national minorities, ensure proportionate given people free will. People are free to obey Him or to representation in organs of the coalition government and disobey. They can follow “the straight and narrow way” institutions and provide for affirmative action to coun- or the wide path to Destruction. God does not command tervail long running discrimination and wrongs. worship of anyone. Therefore, it is presumptuous, if not 7. Investigate and try government officials who are blasphemous, for mortals to command what God does liable for treason, corruption and human rights viola- not. tions. The Bible further teaches that the church will expe- 8. Carry out a truly independent foreign policy for rience persecution until the Lord’s return (Matthew world peace and economic development, oppose imperi- 5:11-12, 24:9-14; 2 Timothy 3:12; Revelation 6:9-11) alist acts of plunder and foreign aggression and interven- and this persecution is the reality of the present day, so tion, and prevent the basing and stationing of foreign that more Christians died for their faith in the twentieth troops and weapons of mass destruction in the country. century than in the previous nineteen centuries com- 9. Maintain normal trade and diplomatic relations bined. with all countries and develop the closest of relations As United Methodists, we know this reality. Our with other ASEAN countries, China, South and North spiritual ancestors in the Wesleyan, Evangelical, and Korea, Japan and Russia, emphasizing equable United Brethren movements faced persecution from the 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:25 AM Page 1192

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beginning. On both sides of the Atlantic, Methodist, 8. to train, to appoint, to elect, or to designated by Evangelical, and United Brethren preachers suffered succession necessary leaders; mob attacks and government-imposed penalties for 9. to observe days of rest and to celebrate holidays preaching the Gospel. In the British possessions in the and ceremonies in accordance with the precepts of one’s Caribbean, early Methodist missionaries found them- religion or belief; selves jailed as “disturbers of the peace.” Our brothers 10. to establish and maintain communications with and sisters in Germany found their freedom to worship individuals and religious communities in matters of reli- secured only with the unification of the German states in gion and belief at the national and international levels. 1871. Even today amid civil strife in various places, our The declaration further establishes the rights of par- people find themselves the victims of atrocities commit- ents to provide religious training for their children. ted by supporters of one faction or another. Freedom from attack. Our test of religious liberty is We grieve, therefore, when some in our denomina- not limited by these standards. “We hold governments tion or in our sister churches deny or minimize the responsible for the protection of the rights of the people” extent of persecution throughout the world, dismissing it (The Social Principles, ¶ 164A); therefore, we believe as the “ravings of the religious right.” We grieve that that governments must not only allow people the free- some downplay the issue, calling it “an obstacle to dia- doms listed above, but also must protect religious people logue,” and subordinate their compassion for the perse- from threats, intimidation, coercion, slander, violence, cuted to other issues. Most of all, we object to the robbery, vandalism, false accusations, and spurious liti- correlating and confounding a passion for the Gospel gation by others. with religious bigotry. Such delusions prompt irrespon- Freedom to doubt, to evangelize, and to convert. We sible speculations and slanders that the expressed desire also believe that religious liberty includes the freedom to to win non-Christian peoples to Christ may lead doubt or to deny the existence of God, and to refrain Christians to commit hate crimes and that persecutions from observing religious practices. Further, we believe that persons of faith have the right to propagate their occur because the churches are too fervent in their evan- faith through evangelistic outreach and, if this is so, then gelism. persons also have the right to convert from one faith to Basic principles of religious liberty another. Persons must be allowed to live within the con- Internationally accepted principles. The preamble straints and the demands of their convictions. We believe to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that it is the right of a person to be allowed to follow the call “the advent of a world in which human beings shall of conscience when it becomes impossible to live by enjoy freedom of speech and belief has been proclaimed both the dictates of the stand and the decisions of faith. as the highest aspiration of the common people.” Threats to Religious Liberty Minimal standards of the right of belief are ampli- Religious liberty involves much more than the right fied by the international community in the Declaration to worship within the walls of a house of worship. on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Religious individuals, institutions, and their members the Discrimination based on Religion or Belief, adopted have the right—indeed, the obligation—to be engaged in by the General Assembly of the United Nations on faith-based witness on issues of state and society. Broad November 25, 1981. It declares that the right of freedom latitude must be allowed in defining this religious func- of thought, conscience, religion, or belief is basic to the tion. following freedoms: The experience of twenty centuries of persecution 1. to assemble and to worship; teaches that religious liberty is threatened from many 2. to establish and maintain places for those pur- quarters. We have already mentioned the harassments poses; and persecutions by nongovernmental groups—other 3. to establish and maintain charitable, humanitar- religions, anti-religious societies, even one’s family and ian, and social outreach institutions: friends (Matthew 10:34-39), but governments also 4. to produce and possess articles necessary to the threaten religious people in many ways. rites and customs of a religion or belief: Theocracies and other governments and societies 5. to write, to issue, and to disseminate relevant that give special privileges to adherents of one religion publications; or ideology too often seek to enforce a monopoly of reli- 6. to teach religious beliefs; gious expression or belief. All governments have a par- 7. to solicit and receive voluntary financial and ticular responsibility to ensure and guarantee not only other contributions from individuals and institutions; the religious rights and spirituality of indigenous groups, 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:25 AM Page 1193

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but also the political, economic, social, and cultural rights its compelling reason in a way that places the most min- of those who are not members of the favored group. imal burden on religion. A grave threat to religious liberty exits in nation Denominational Action to Expand Religious states where all forms of voluntary association—even Liberty for the purposes private religious worship—are limited The United Methodist Church places a high priority or prohibited. In such situations, special accommodation on the struggle to maintain freedom of religious belief that uses the United Nations Declaration as a minimum and practice throughout the world. Whenever, because standard must be made for the observance of religious of their religious faith, individuals and groups are denied functions. their rights, our members have an obligation to speak out Religious liberty is menaced in other ways. on their behalf. Governments or political movements have used reli- To this end, the General Commission on Christian gious institutions or organizations for their own pur- Unity and Interreligious Concerns in cooperation with poses by compromising their personnel through offering the Council of Bishops shall compile an annual report on power, or by manipulation, infiltration, or control. religious liberty throughout the world. This report will Governments also subvert religious organizations by devote special attention to instances of religious oppres- means of surveillance of their legitimate activities sion and to plight of persecuted Christians. To prepare through the use of informers, covert searches of reli- this report, the commission will consult with and main- gious property, and politically motivated threats to the tain liaison with Amnesty International, Christian safety of religious leaders or the financial operation of Solidarity International USA, the Congressional Human religious institutions. Rights Caucus, Freedom House, the Institute on Governments may also infringe on religious liberty Religion and Democracy, Open Doors, the Puebla with actions that are more insensitive than consciously Institute, the Society of St. Stephen, the State hostile. Local governmental zoning ordinances some- Department Advisory Committee on Religious Freedom times unfairly restrict a church’s ability to expand, Abroad, Voice of the Martyrs, and other authorities on improve, or relocate their property. The single-minded the issue of international human rights. This report will pursuit of public policy objectives without proper regard be completed each year in time for a summary to appear for their impact on religion constitutes a multi-faceted in the September issue of The Interpreter to help local threat to religious liberty. Whether the objective is to churches prepare for the International Day of Prayer for raise public monies by taxing churches, to maintain the the Persecuted Church, held every November. separation of church and state by banning religious dis- Also, when the commission or the Council of cussion in schools, or to compensate creditors by forc- Bishops or their members become aware of a church ing churches to refund the donations given them by leader’s denying, minimizing, or excusing religious those who have gone bankrupt, they represent the oppression or persecution, they shall admonish the removal of religion from society’s mainstream and the offender of his or her error following the guidelines set demotion of religious liberty from an inalienable right to forth in Matthew 19:15-17 and Galatians 6:1-2. If, after a special privilege to be granted or withdrawn at the gov- two admonishments, the offender has not publicly apol- ernment’s discretion. ogized, they shall issue a public rebuke. We pledge our continual efforts to protect against Moreover, we call on our members, agencies, and these activities. institutions to: We recognize that situations exist where religious 1. affirm and support these concerns for religious observances seem to threaten the health or safety of a liberty in the ecumenical groups in which we partici- society. However, the importance of religious liberty pate; dictates that restrictions of religious observances that are 2. pursue application of these minimum standards alleged to be contrary to government policy on the pre- of the human rights of religious liberty in all societies sumption that public health of safety is threatened must and work toward conditions where governmental units be carefully examined. Governments must present a neither inhibit any particular religion including atheism; compelling interests test (i.e., public health and safety 3. advocate, through prayer, education, and political could be affected by a particular religious observance) to action, to gain religious liberty in all places where it is any government action that places a substantial burden lacking; on sincere religious practices. That is, government 4. extend the compassionate ministry of the Church should have to prove a compelling reason for burdening to persons who suffer because either religious or govern- a religious practice as well as proving that it is pursuing mental authorities seek to deny these rights to them, 843504028428_003A.qxp 1/25/12 6:25 AM Page 1194

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assuming a special responsibility to work on behalf of the world in observing the International Day of Prayer “unregistered,” in addition to governmentally sanctioned for the Persecuted Church. religious institutions. Rationale: 5. educate ourselves so that we will be able to iden- This resolution, a Book of Resolutions’ stellar entry tify and respond to violations of religious liberty both in since 1988, vanished in 2008 under the eight-year rule our own and in other societies; (¶ 510.2a). This version features a better theological 6. Support all United Nations activities to promote foundation, an historical perspective, fuller lists of religious liberty and curtail religious intolerance; and religious liberty threats and resources, and support for the 7. Participate wholeheartedly with churches around International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.