Bishop David Bard invites Michigan United Methodists to conversations on human sexuality.

LANSING — Bishop David Bard has hosted two dialogs this fall on the subject of human sexuality and The United Methodist Church. Two more such dialogs are planned before year-end.

“Weaving the Future: connectional conversations” is an opportunity for individuals across the state to share their hopes, dreams and concerns about the official position of The United Methodist Church as it relates to individuals who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, or Queer.

At the 2016 General Conference, delegates approved a proposal from the Council of Bishops to form a commission to explore how the church might live with grace with one another in light of significant differences on LGBTQ inclusion. In November 2016, each bishop was asked by the Council to organize conversations in his or her area parallel to the work of the Commission on a Way Forward.

“I invite Michigan United Methodists to gather with hearts and minds open to each other and to God’s Spirit as together we discuss our differences and also our hopes and dreams for The United Methodist Church,” Bishop Bard said. He added, “It is my expectation that as followers of Jesus we will gather to listen deeply to each other and take from these conversations not only a more profound understanding of both shared values and differences, but also a renewed commitment to compassionate and intelligent conversation even when the topics are difficult.”

Here are the next opportunities for dialog:

• Dialog 4 will be held Thursday, December 7 at 7:00pm at the Area Ministry Center, 1011 Northcrest, Lansing MI 48906, 517/347-4030.

Those interested in learning more about the official position of The United Methodist Church on human sexuality can visit http://www.umc.org/topics/topic-human-sexuality-homosexuality.

Last Updated on November 7, 2017