Dear Central Family,

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted many things and altered countless plans.  One thing that has been impacted is the future of the United Methodist denomination.   Prior to the pandemic the worldwide United Methodist Church was careening toward certain division.  The Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation was widely anticipated to pass at General Conference in May 2020 resulting in two separate denominations – a progressive/centrist post-separation UMC and a new traditional Methodist denomination. 

Due to the coronavirus the General Conference has been postponed until August 29 – September 7, 2021.  Until the pandemic subsides and a vaccine is available, it remains uncertain if that date will be a possibility.  The future of the denomination is on hold and remains uncertain.

There have been a variety of reactions to the postponement of the United Methodist General Conference.  Some are relieved because the denomination has more time to resolve differences and work toward unity.  Some are frustrated because they have long waited for the UMC to allow same sex marriages and ordain LGBTQIA persons.  These remain an impossibility under the current Book of Discipline.  Some are frustrated because the advent of a new traditional Methodist denomination is postponed.  Traditional Methodists want to end the quarreling, focus on evangelism, church multiplication, a traditional view of scripture and orthodox Wesleyan doctrine.    

What does this mean for our Central church family?  Central will remain in the United Methodist Church under the current Book of Discipline until General Conference convenes and the future of the denomination is decided.  It will be at least 18 months and possibly longer until anything changes.

Prior to the pandemic as General Conference approached, I drew a truthful comparison between pastors who are focused on Christology, and those who are not.  I made my views known and shared my interest in the new traditional Methodist denomination.  Some members of our congregation let me know that they were pleased with my position.  They approved of my stance and shared their appreciation and gratitude.  Some members of our congregation let me know that they were disappointed with my position.  They did not approve of my stance and shared their disagreement and frustration.  

I want you to know, if my views offended you, if my sermons made you feel criticized, if my statements made you feel judged, if you think I damaged our reputation in the community of Fayetteville, or if I caused you harm in any way, I sincerely apologize.  I did not intend for my opinion about the new traditional Methodist denomination to cause harm to anyone.  Whether you agree or disagree with my opinion, I am still your pastor, I love you and I care about you. 

The best thing for our Central family to do until General Conference convenes, is show one another kindness and grace.  We may disagree over issues, but it is time to come together in unity and demonstrate agape love.  In the coming year, our focus will be to reach people for Jesus Christ, make disciples who make disciples, care for the needy in our community and be light and salt in the world. 

When General Conference nears, our lay leaders and executive team will keep the congregation well-informed. We will send email updates, provide informational meetings and host gatherings like Family Conversations where our members can talk with one another and form a shared vision for Central’s future.  Until that time, I am available to talk with church members if that is helpful. 

Dr. Jan Davis
Senior Pastor