Day 3 - GC2008

Yesterday was the third and final day that I was a part of General Conference in person. Opening worship was excellent including a convicting sermon by Bishop João Somane Machado of the Mozambique Annual (regional) Conference. He had some convicting words for the United Methodist Church, in effect - what happened to the spiritual fervor and missional focus that you had before? A few thoughts from the day:

• I was interviewed by Jenny for the UMC Young Clergy documentary which she is developing. I think that it is going to be a great project.
• The human sexuality debate within the United Methodist Church is painful, tense and emotional. At times we just do not trust each other.
• Another serious and painful issue is the relationship between the United States and other countries - both in the delegate relationships and in the church organization. Too often it felt like us and them.
• The conferences committee is working on some ground breaking legislation that has the potential to create a seismic shift in the denomination that has great potential for missional effectiveness.
• Reata Restaurant has amazing food. I ordered my first ever steak medium rare as this is what was recommended for the particular cut. It was good, but I do not think that I will make that level of cooking a habit.

Day 2 - GC2008

Part of the Kansas delegation from the General Conference 2008 Photo Gallery

It has been another amazingly full day. Again, I do not know how the delegates are going to have the physical stamina to make it through the rest of the conference. I am already getting worn out. Here are some thoughts from the day:

• The Vision Pathways intro video was one of the best video productions that I have seen in a long time.
• I was disappointed with the presentation for the General Conference on Finance and Administration - a lot of enthusiasm and very little substance.
• The very first young people’s address rocked. Great content and innovative presentation around the room.
• Legislative committees take a long time to organize.
• It takes a tremendous amount of energy to be a denomination.

Opening Worship - GC2008

I arrived in Fort Worth today made it to the hotel and quickly hopped on the shuttle to go to the Convention Center to see what there was to see.

I forgot my camera at home, so don’t plan on any picture I was pretty bummed about that, but am getting over it. A few takeaways from todays events.

• Opening worship was a very good experience - I really felt God’s Spirit at times.
• Although moving at times, there are many changes to the flow of the opening worship service that would likely take place if it were at Resurrection.
• Rules matter.
• There was a strong theme of unity throughout all of the worship - songs, liturgy and prayers.
• It will be a long conference - I am tired today and I have not had near the preparation as a delegate nor will I be here as long as the delegates.
• God is good and at work in the denomination.
• Business sessions are more fun if you can make commentary on the goings on from the mezzanine.

GC2008: The Experience

Along with a group of clergy from Resurrection, I am traveling to Fort Worth to experience several days of the 2008 General Conference of The United Methodist Church. This is a global gathering that happens every four years and is the only body that can speak for the denomination.

I am looking forward to see, hear, experience, feel, and be a part of the conference.

I suggest that you find out more here - http://gc2008.umc.org

You might also check for bloggers present at the entire event, including…

• Mark
• Adam
• Luke