a Reconciling

              Congregation

by Larry Knisley

A “Reconciling Congregation” is a United Methodist Congregation which makes an intentional statement of inclusion of all persons — but particularly GLBT persons — in the life of the congregation.  Maynard began its journey to be a reconciling congregation six years ago under the leadership of Pastor Glenn.  Within our denomination, a network was begun in 1984 to connect such like-minded congregations.  It is known as the Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN).  However, we have been so busy in our ministry efforts that we have yet to affiliate with RMN.

     I’m proud to report that on April 14, 2005, at leadership council, the members voted unanimously to take the final step and officially become a “Reconciling Congregation” by affiliating with RMN. 

What does RMN do?

–    Celebrates the God-given gifts of GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered) persons in the life of the church and society!

–    Creates communities of individuals whether Sunday School Classes, Campus Ministries, Clusters, Congregations, or Convocations that affirm the inclusive Church of Christ!

–    Prepares inclusive educational and worship resources:  Liturgies, Prayers, Bible Studies, Becoming Reconciling, Workshops, and Website.

–    Advocates for change:  Witness at General Conference, Annual Conferences, and Church Trials.  Sign on with GLBT legal cases to ensure equal civil rights.

–    Coordinates a ministry of care for all participants in this journey for justice recognizing the need for healing along the way.

–    Envisions and works for the end of oppression and discrimination in the UMC and bringing authentic reconciliation to the Body of Christ.

There are approximately 200 Reconciling Congregations.  We can celebrate that!  However, I must point out that in a connectional system of 42,000 United Methodist Churches, this is not even 1/2%.  It is just my opinion, but I believe that there are at least 4000 other congregations out there that are afraid to come out of the closet.  What a “lost ministry”!  I hope and pray that some day soon, our affirming clergy who are not in openly affirming congregations will follow Pastor Glenn’s example and attempt to move their congregations forward.  May we Maynardites be ready to help prayerfully and financially when such an opportunity presents itself.  May it be so!

On December 3 and 4, 2004, Maynard Avenue UMC and many of its friends, celebrated Maynard becoming a reconciling congregation!  What joy to know that we have been doing things "right" at Maynard.  Our doors our open to all and we celebrate our diversity.  Check out some of the images from our celebration.

>>> Reconciling Celebration

>>> Bishop Ough's letter

>>> Good Shepard Award