Resources

Holy Conferencing

A 2005 survey of U.S. conferences by JustPeace revealed that several conferences were seeking to order their life and decision-making processes in ways marked by holy conferencing.  JustPeace continues to be available as a resource to conferences, the Council of Bishops, and the Church as we confer about our faith and life together.

Prior to the 2008 General Conference, church leaders and delegates embraced a different tone as it approached the 2008 legislative sessions.

(Read the article, United Methodists seek change in tone at assembly, from the United Methodist News Service for more information).

Here are the Guidelines:

  1. Every person is a child of God.  Always speak respectfully.  One can disagree without being disagreeable.
  2. As you patiently listen and observe the behavior of others, be open to the possibility that God can change the view of any or all parties in the discussion.
  3. Listen patiently before formulating responses.
  4. Strive to understand the experience out of which others have arrived at their views.
  5. Accurately reflect the view of others when speaking.  This is especially important when you disagree with that person.
  6. Avoid using inflammatory words, derogatory names or an excited and angry voice.
  7. Avoid making generalizations about individuals and groups.  Make your point with specific evidence and examples.
  8. Make use of facilitators and mediators.
  9. Remember that people are defined, ultimately, but their relationship with God – not by the flaws we discover, or think we discover, in their views and actions
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