General Conference Update from Administrative Council

Here’s a copy of Sue Mahanna-Boden’s announcement, made in the Sunday Service on June 30, 2024

Good morning.

I’m Sue Mahanna-Boden and I currently serve in the capacity of Chairperson of the Administrative Council. On behalf of the Council, I wanted to speak with you today regarding some of the decisions made at the General Conference of the United Methodist Church that met in May of 2024.

Although several issues were addressed at the General Conference, the one that has generated more conversation deals with human sexuality, specifically celebrating same-sex marriages and the ordination (and receiving) of LGBTQ+ clergy.  The General Conference removed traditional language forbidding same-sex marriages and the ordination LGBTQ+ clergy. As a result, as a church family, we do need to decide our position policy/statement on this issue; one that is truthfully, lovingly and respectfully developed that does not violate each of our own consciences; one that reflects who we are and what we value as a body of Christ at Richmond First United Methodist Church.

There will be a process implemented to address just this. At the recent Administrative Council meeting on Monday, June 24th, a 4-step process was agreed upon by the Council members to assist us in our conversations with the goal of making a policy decision by early October.

We will have two congregational meetings.

1. The first will be on August 10 at 9:00 am to noon in the Fellowship Hall.
   1. We will ask people to register prior to the meeting to prepare for those attending; food and drink will be provided.  
2. From these conversations, a survey will be sent to the congregation on September 6 continuing until September 16.
   1. Surveys will be both electronic and paper & pencil.
   1. The Administrative Council will evaluate the information and then will consider the next steps.
3. A second congregational meeting is scheduled for September 22 at 9:00 am to noon in the Fellowship Hall.
   1. Information from the surveys will be shared.
4. A policy decision will be made by early October.

I want to reiterate that in this process of coming together as a church family, your voice matters. I strongly encourage you to attend both congregational meetings. Come prayerfully.

You will hear from me often in addition to other members of the Administrative Council regarding this important process. I want to assure you that each member of the Administrative Council deeply loves this church. I know too, that each of you here in the sanctuary and those watching on-line, deeply love this church as well.

So let’s love her together.