Updates and Resources on A Way Forward
“I believe I am being led by the Holy Spirit”
Laity and Clergy coming to differing conclusions regarding homosexuality
The Rev. Dr. Adolf Hansen, Theologian-in-Residence at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis shares a booklet resource for laity and clergy.
In the addendum Dr. Hansen shares, “I’ve written these pages to show one way United Methodist laity and clergy might carry out their responsibilities if the proposed “one church model” is adopted (without a move to a congregational form of governance). If the UMC adopts a different model, the organizational layout delineated in this booklet might still be useful. My deepest hope is that all of us who are a part of the UMC will find a resolution that will enable us to expend our full energy on leading persons to become disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”
View and Download the Booklet Version
View and Download the Booklet in a Single Page Format
Hansen also wrote the book, Is it Time? Helping Laity and Clergy Discuss Homosexuality One Question at a Time, which was included in the 2018 Bishop’s Lenten Study for critical conversation throughout the districts of the Indiana Conference.
Resources
Prayers for the Week of October 15 – 21 Bulletin Insert
BULLETIN INSERT FROM COLLEGE AVENUE UMC
October 3
We do not know what goes on in the spiritual realm when we pray. We do know, however, that when we pray according to God’s will we receive access, through Jesus, into the very presence of God, who has authority over all enemies; visible and invisible. Let us put our trust in our Victorious Warrior and pray. Spend time with Him and seek His will. Listen for His ways and thoughts and pray boldly, asking in the powerful name of Jesus.
October 10
The Commission on a Way Forward has the responsibility to do a complete examination and possible revision of every paragraph of the Book of Discipline concerning human sexuality and explore options that help to maintain and strengthen the unity of the Church. Our responsibility is to pray for them. All of us are important in this process. Let us allow God to search our hearts and lead us in our prayers. May God be glorified!
Almighty God, help us to trust you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
October 15
Lord, we worship you as King of kings and Lord of lords. Thank you that your ways are perfect. We thank you for the members of the Commission on a Way Forward. Please guide them in the great responsibility they carry for the future of our denomination. As they seek you in truth, give them your path of wisdom. In the powerful name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
October 16
Thank you, Lord, that you are near to all who call upon you in truth. We ask that the Commission on a Way Forward pour out their hearts and emotions before you, as we do the same. Please remove any fear and give us all a new depth of understanding and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
October 17
Help us all, Lord, do our part in keeping peace with one another. We ask that your peace fill each member of the Commission on a Way Forward as they seek you. Renew a right spirit in us all. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
October 18
God, we ask that all 32 members of the Commission on a Way Forward obey your leading as they draw up plans to present to the Bishops for their November meeting. May your will be done. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
October 19
Dear God, we trust you with the future of our denomination. Only you know the way we should go. Help us all to be aware of your constant presence as we wait upon you for answers. We want you to be glorified. In the strong name of Jesus, Amen.
October 20
Lord, we pray for the next meeting of the Commission on a Way Forward– October 30 through November 1. We pray for each member to sincerely seek you. Please give them wisdom and clarity. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
October 21
Lord, remind us to continue to pray for the Commission on a Way Forward. Our desire is to see people come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Thank you for hearing our prayers and answering according to your perfect will and in your timing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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