|
Developments and Changes Since 1968
When The United Methodist Church was created in 1968, it had approximately
11 million members, making it one of the largest Protestant churches in
the world.
Since its birth, United Methodism has experienced a number of changes
in its life and structure. It has become increasingly aware of itself as
a world church with members and conferences in Africa, Asia, Europe, and
the United States. While its membership in Europe and the United States
has declined noticeably since 1968, membership in Africa and Asia has grown
significantly.
An increasing number of women have been admitted to the ordained ministry,
appointed to the district superintendency, elected to positions of denominational
leadership, and consecrated as bishops. In 1980 Marjorie Matthews was the
first woman elected to the Church's episcopacy.
The Church has endeavored to become a community in which all persons,
regardless of racial or ethnic background, can participate in every level
of its connectional life and ministry.
United Methodism has struggled with a number of critical issues. It
has created and refined theological and mission statements. It has discussed
and acted on matters of social importance such as nuclear power and world
peace, human sexuality, the environment, abortion, AIDS, evangelism, and
world mission.
The Church has been concerned with the faithfulness and vitality of
its worship. It published a hymnal in 1989, which included a new Psalter
and revised liturgies for baptism, the Lord's Supper, weddings, and funerals.
Its 1992 General Conference authorized a new Book of Worship. A Spanish
language hymnal, Mil Voces Para Celebrar, was published in 1996.
The United Methodist Church represents the confluence of three streams
of tradition: Methodism, the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, and
The Evangelical Association. With other churches that are also members
of the body of Christ, it humbly and gratefully offers up its praise to
God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit for creating and sustaining
grace. It seeks further grace as it ministers to the world.
Back to What
is the United Methodist Church? & Related Links
|
.gif)
.gif){kind=small}
The space
for this web site has been provided courtesy of the