An essential nature of the United Methodist Church is connectionalism. The connectional nature of the church is not only the linking of local churches, but also the sharing of leadership, doctrine and rules, an ethos, and more importantly: a common mission. The connectional nature of the UMC system allows its members to work with one another, sharing resources and experience, for the greater mission of the Church in the world. This connectional nature is emphasized through the structure of the church. The members of a local church are connected to one another through the charge of its pastor, which is connected to its district, annual conference, and jurisdiction. This is then connected to the General Conference and the Church as a whole.
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How do you perceive yourself, your gifts, your motives, your role, and your commitment as a provisional member and commissioned minister in The United Methodist Church? As I continue to grow, I have discovered that the foundation provided to me through being raised within the United Methodist Church has developed my understanding of self as something that cannot be separated from the Church. My gifts for servant leadership, application of critical thought, and ability to guide as a companion have led me to affirm my calling as a leader within the Church. My strongest gift is compassion. It is my compassion for all whom I encounter, paired with my understanding of prevenient and sanctifying grace that drives me to continue being a leader in the United Methodist Church. I understand my role as a leader in ministry as one who empowers others to find and live out their ministry. Growing up I observed how the Church operated, I found myself listening to individuals and helping them discern where their place was within this community. After a few of these encounters, I became attentive of where the Church as a whole was being called to serve. Through monthly preaching, I affirm the work that the Holy Spirit is already doing, while also prompting the Church to build upon this work as it lives into its
How do you perceive yourself, your gifts, your motives, your role, and your commitment as a provisional member and commissioned minister in The United Methodist Church? As I continue to grow, I have discovered that the foundation provided to me through being raised within the United Methodist Church has developed my understanding of self as something that cannot be separated from the Church. My gifts for servant leadership, application of critical thought, and ability to guide as a companion have led me to affirm my calling as a leader within the Church. My strongest gift is compassion. It is my compassion for all whom I encounter, paired with my understanding of prevenient and sanctifying grace that drives me to continue being a leader in the United Methodist Church. I understand my role as a leader in ministry as one who empowers others to find and live out their ministry. Growing up I observed how the Church operated, I found myself listening to individuals and helping them discern where their place was within this community. After a few of these encounters, I became attentive of where the Church as a whole was being called to serve. Through monthly preaching, I affirm the work that the Holy Spirit is already doing, while also prompting the Church to build upon this work as it lives into its