Take up advocacy for Lent

Dear Minooka UMC Found Family,

John Wesley, the person credited with starting the movement that would become the United Methodist Church, refused to limit his ministry to private, individual spiritual matters. Quite the opposite—he famously declared, “I look upon all the world as my parish.” Wesley understood the inherent, inescapable connection between our faith in Jesus and public engagement.

Following Wesley’s lead, our current Book of Discipline* states:

While we do not believe churches should affiliate with particular political parties, we do encourage churches to speak out boldly on social issues from a gospel perspective. We further believe churches have a right and responsibility to educate and equip their members to be effective advocates for justice in the wider world.

You can find that under the Government Responsibilities, A., Church & Society section of the Book of Discipline.

*What’s the Book of Discipline? “The law, doctrine, administration, organizational work, and procedures of The United Methodist Church.” Read about some of the changes to the current (2020/2024) version. Additionally, last fall we offered a sermon series called Terms & Conditions on being a disciple in the UMC that included teaching on the Book of Discipline.

Jesus teaches us that we must always look for ways to help those suffering in hunger and poverty. Addressing systemic issues around hunger and poverty means engaging in public policy. But, honestly, government policy can be convoluted and confusing. Still, remaining silent and on the sidelines is not an option. So what do we do?

With the parable of the persistent widow as inspiration, our guest speaker, author Cynthia Changyit Levin, will share practical ways we can raise our voices with and for neighbors in need through her talk, Advocacy as a Lenten Practice. Do not miss this opportunity to hear from—and learn from—Cynthia in worship this Sunday, February 22nd!

Plotting Goodness,
Pastor Dave