Methodist Update: Fabulous Flashmob for Full Inclusion

Methodist delegates from around the world are gathering in Tampa, FL, for the General Conference of the United Methodist Church. This meeting happens every four years, and it’s the only opportunity to revise the Book of Discipline, which governs the denomination on every level. 

This year, delegates will vote on a number of measures affecting LGBTQ+ congregants and clergy. The Book of Discipline currently bans same-sex marriages and non-celibate gay clergy. In addition, a 1972 motion declares that homosexuality is “incompatible with Christian teaching.”

In the midst of rising tensions, a group of young people lightened the mood with a flashmob rendition of “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” The dancers represented Methodist Students (Young People) for an All Inclusive Church (MOSAIC), and the song illustrated their certainty that the arc of justice will bend toward full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in the denomination. 

The flashmob was met with clapping and booty-shaking from the gathering crowd, and onlookers cheered enthusiastically as the “Love your Neighbor” banner was unfurled. 

Click here to watch the video.

Tyler Sit, a student at the Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, GA, helped organize the dance. He spoke with the United Methodist News Service to explain: 

I believe in The United Methodist Church and I believe we can offer a prophetic voice in the 21st century, but that is not going to happen if we I don’t have all voices at the table. Any form of oppression is hurting the church. I am passionate about creating a church that reflects the kingdom of God.

We’ll follow up with updates and personal reflections after the votes are tallied. In the meantime, you can keep up with the proceedings on Twitter with the hashtag #gc12love. Or follow the Reconciling Ministries Network, which is working for full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life of the United Methodist Church. 

Originally posted at South & Out; photo by Kathleen Barry for UMNS