Methodist Church Begins General Conference In Tampa, Florida

By Believe Out Loud

April 24, 2012 marks the start of the United Methodist Church’s General Conference in Tampa, Florida.  The 11 day conference will discuss everything from budget cuts to homosexuality.  The United Methodist Church, the second largest Protestant denomination in the United States, is the latest denomination to address the inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the life of the church.

At the moment, the Methodist Church does not ordain gay and lesbian pastors nor recognize same sex marriage. However the Reconciling Ministries Network as well as many other participants at the conference are working hard to extend Jesus’ welcome to all of God’s children, including those in the LGBT community.   

Check out this fantastic video to learn more about the Reconciling Ministries Network’s fabulous work! 

Visit General Conference to learn more about all of the topics being discussed by the nearly 1000 delegates in attendance.  

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Image courtesy of Reconciling Ministries Network