Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, resident bishop of the South Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, issued this statement following the May 25, 2018, decision from the UMC Judicial Council:
Bishop Holston
The Judicial Council of the United Methodist Church issued on May 25, 2018, its ruling regarding petitions to the special session of the 2019 General Conference.
In summary, United Methodist individuals and entities will be permitted to submit petitions to the called General Conference that are in harmony with the Council of Bishops’ report, which is based on the work of the Commission on a Way Forward.
The special session of the 2019 General Conference will determine whether petitions are “in harmony.” In addition, the General Conference can choose – by a two-thirds vote – to consider petitions that are not in harmony with the Council of Bishops’ report.
In the coming days, you will be invited to continue your prayers for the church in particular ways. Let us stay focused on our commitment to make disciples of Jesus Christ in our communities and beyond.
Grace and Peace,
L. Jonathan Holston
Click here to read the Judicial Council’s decision.
Click here to read the Council of Bishops’ response
to the Judicial Council’s decision.
