Day 3 - GC2008
Yesterday was the third and final day that I was a part of General Conference in person. Opening worship was excellent including a convicting sermon by Bishop João Somane Machado of the Mozambique Annual (regional) Conference. He had some convicting words for the United Methodist Church, in effect - what happened to the spiritual fervor and missional focus that you had before? A few thoughts from the day:
I was interviewed by Jenny for the UMC Young Clergy documentary which she is developing. I think that it is going to be a great project.
The human sexuality debate within the United Methodist Church is painful, tense and emotional. At times we just do not trust each other.
Another serious and painful issue is the relationship between the United States and other countries - both in the delegate relationships and in the church organization. Too often it felt like us and them.
The conferences committee is working on some ground breaking legislation that has the potential to create a seismic shift in the denomination that has great potential for missional effectiveness.
Reata Restaurant has amazing food. I ordered my first ever steak medium rare as this is what was recommended for the particular cut. It was good, but I do not think that I will make that level of cooking a habit.