Resolution #1:
Dave Byrum moves on behalf of the Appointive Cabinet the resolution be referred to the Annual Conference Mission and Justice Team, to collaborate with the Task Force and the Alliance for the perfection of the resolution for mid-year consideration by the Conference Coordinating Council, and implementation of the final product of their walk together. SECONDEDAgainst – Jimmy Moore
Amendment to Motion – Russ Abel moves an amendment to the Byrum motion that it be concluded by a vote by the Annual Conference Session 2018. MOTION PASSED AS AMENDED TO REFER.
Resolution #2:
Help End Suicide and Homelessness among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning (LGBTQ) Youth
Be more aware and intentional in helping local congregations provide resources to help educate families about how to respond with love to their youth whose sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression may not conform to their families’ expectations.
Tom Heaton responded on behalf of the Mission and Justice Team.
For – Darren Cushman Wood, Dan Gangler, Mary Hubbard, Becke Bolinger, 2 others (Paige & Teresa)
Motion – Leah Padgett moves to replace the title of Resolution #2 with the following: Help Prevent Suicide, Bullying, and Homelessness in All Youth and Young Adults. Insert on page 1 before line 5: Whereas, “More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from any other disease combined. Each day in our nation, there are an average of over 5,240 attempts by young people grades 7-12” (The Parent Resource Program, 2016) and “It is also the third leading cause of death in young adults in ages 15 to 24” (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 2016); and Whereas, al youth are vulnerable and at risk; and…. Replace lines 13-16 on page 2 with the following: Be it resolved, that where possible, the United Methodist congregations of Indiana are encouraged to promote and host education opportunities and training for suicide awareness and prevention, policies for reducing bullying, and best practices for creating safe spaces for homeless and all vulnerable youth and young adults, to equip community leaders, church staff, and clergy; and
Amendment to Motion – Shanique Edwards moves an amendment to the Padgett motion to replace the second whereas with “Whereas we acknowledge that all youth are at high risk for suicide, many are diagnosed with depression, and many have experienced bullying in some form, we as the United Methodist Church in Indiana also recognize that LGBTQ youth face unique challenges that make them particularly vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and actions. MOTION PASSED AS AMENDED.
Resolution #3: New Elections to General Conference did not pass