Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, resident bishop of the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church, released this statement regarding the further postponement of the General Conference:
Bishop Holston
Friends, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 meeting of the General Conference has once again been postponed. I ask all South Carolina United Methodists to remain patient – with our hearts, minds and hands firmly engaged in the day-to-day mission and ministry to which God had called us.
As we contemplate yet another COVID-19-driven interruption to our expected rhythms, it is instructive to turn to the scriptures for guidance and assurance amid the uncertainty:
“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” – Proverbs 4:25-26 (NIV)
Ours is a connectional church – a community of believers rooted in faith and committed to serving our God by loving and caring for one another.
It is important to note that this session of General Conference – initially planned for 2020, but most recently scheduled for later this year – has only been postponed until 2024, not canceled. We also should remember that we are a global church, spanning four continents and scores of nations – each with its own societal and technological challenges.
As part of a worldwide denomination, we must see the work that we do not only from our own perspective, but also through the eyes of others. While we in the United States are fortunate for the progress that has been made in re-engaging in person after more than a year of isolation, we must acknowledge the difficult path that remains ahead in this struggle for many of our fellow United Methodists abroad.
I would like to ask you to consider anew the challenge we have faithfully met throughout this time of pandemic:
• Let us fervently seek God’s guidance so we can do what we need to do in this moment.
• Let us be the leaders that our neighbors need to make a difference for the sake of Christ.
• Let us commit to growing as disciples and engaging with our communities.
• Let us take the next faithful step to courageously answer the call to follow where God leads.
Grace and peace,
L. Jonathan Holston
Resident Bishop
South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church
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