As we begin 2020, the UMC finds itself in what is frequently being called a “liminal” time. The first time I encountered that word, I doubted its validity. However, Oxford defines it as: “Liminal” – adjective – 1) relating to a transitional or initial stage of a process; 2) occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold.
I guess being in the Oxford Dictionary makes it a real word? Anyway, “liminal” is being used to refer to the fact that the UMC is basically “in between” what it has been and what it may become in response to the polarizing issue of same-sex marriage and ordination. In truth, there are many more variables at play than just this one issue, and we are always, historically, on the threshold between what has been and what will be. This year, there are some major changes being proposed to the 2020 session of General Conference. All of us, to some degree, wrestle with change. Major change usually causes major wrestling. Uncertainty about the nature of that change almost always makes our wrestling more intense. (Consider the difference in how you react to a clear medical diagnosis compared to how you react to an undefined one.) There is much uncertainty about what General Conference 2020 may do.
There are several ways we can respond to liminal times. We can be anxious and fearful – which is damaging to our health and relationships. We can be anxious and controlling – which is isolating and damaging to our relationships. We can be in denial – which leaves us ill-prepared for whatever happens, or we can lean into our relationships with God and each other while strengthening our discipleship practices – which leads to increased physical and spiritual health and stronger relationships.
I haven’t seen any proposals for General Conference 2020 that I think will be adopted “as is.” I think it is very possible that no proposal for substantial change will be adopted. Whatever happens, I think there will be people unhappy with the result. For now, however, we have to live with the reality of uncertainty.
What I do know, for certain, is this: no mainline denomination in the USA, however they have chosen to address the issue of same-sex marriage and ordination, is growing. In fact, they are all in serious decline. If we don’t turn our attention to spiritual vitality, whatever General Conference 2020 does will be, ultimately, irrelevant.
Over the next six months, we will keep you informed about developments and processes in the UMC. The Bethany UMC clergy staff will continue to uphold their ordination vows to maintain and teach the doctrine and polity of the UMC, defined by the General Conference and expressed in the Book of Discipline. More critically, we will continue to implement our Core Vision. We began with our “Worship + 3” emphasis at the beginning of the 2019 school year. That emphasis will continue even as we align our ministries more closely to our Core Vision. Our clergy staff firmly believes this is the pathway that leads to greater openness to God’s renewing work. We will continue to lead people to “Experience God’s Love, Know Jesus Christ, and Grow in His Image.”
As we wait in this liminal time, let’s direct our energies to seeking a new breath of God’s life and Spirit into our personal faith as well as our congregational life. Let’s push deeper into worship, discipleship, service, and generosity. Let’s open ourselves more radically to the indwelling and enlivening of God’s Holy Spirit, personally and church-wide. Remember, we don’t know what the future holds, but we know – and trust - Who holds our future.
Be Blessed,
Tom Deviney
