CUMC DSW Resolution 21.20

2001 - GROUNDED IN SCRIPTURE
A REPORT ON ANNUAL CONFERENCE

From the Desert Southwest Annual Conference
which was held in Mesa from June 6-10:

Resolution 21.20:
Affirmation of the Western Jurisdictional Resolution
"We Will Not Be Silent"

Whereas, the Western Jurisdictional Conference during its session at Casper, Wyoming, July 12-15, 2000, passed the following resolution entitled "We Will Not Be Silent":

"We of the Western Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church have heard the call of the prophet Micah "to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." We have heard Jesus* invitation for all to come to the banquet table of God*s abundant grace.

"Certain actions of General Conference 2000 have caused tremendous pain for individuals and communities and have resulted in an attempt to suppress our prophetic and pastoral ministries among all people, regardless of sexual orientation.

"The votes may have been cast but our voices will not be silent. Our jurisdictional vision calls us to be "a home for all God*s people, gathered around a table of reconciliation and transformation." Affirming the statement of United Methodist of Color for a Fully Inclusive Church, "We acknowledge that there may be differences of opinion among us, but this does not require that we wait on justice." We cannot accept discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered persons and, therefore, we will work toward their full participation at all levels in the life of the church and society. Valuing the voices of those who disagree, we will continue to be in dialogue as we journey together in creative tension. We will continue to be in ministry with all God*s children and celebrate the gifts diversity brings. We will continue to feast at table with all God*s children."

WHEREAS, the Desert Southwest Annual Conference intends to support our brothers and sisters across the Western Jurisdiction.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Desert Southwest Annual Conference both affirms and supports the action taken by the Western Jurisdictional Conference at its 2000 session, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Conference Secretary shall ensure that the text of this resolution be printed in the "Open Line", and that the Conference Secretary shall mail a copy of this resolution to each congregation in the Desert Southwest Annual Conference.