The Meaning of Methodist, Part 3 // The Rev. Clarke Campbell-Evans // August 21, 2022

Hyde Park United Methodist

In the Exodus reading, Moses discovered that the task of leading the people and advancing the mission of God among the Israelites was too great for one person to handle. That’s why he created a connectional system of governance, administration, and support. Likewise, the idea of connectionalism is at the heart of being United Methodist. Each congregation is part of an interconnected whole of people and congregations around the world, joined by districts, conferences, jurisdictions, and central/regional conferences. We are ultimately connected by a General Conference. Likewise, no one person in the local church has all the power. We have staff and lay people serving on various committees that each share a vital part of leading the whole of the church. We all play a part in making ministry happen and advancing the mission of God.