Index Provides page numbers for commonly asked questions
2020 State of the Church Address
Annual Conference 2020: Five Areas of Focus Reports
Creating New and Renewed Congregations
Around the world, United Methodists are innovating with what it means to be the church, planting new congregations and revitalizing faith
communities in every kind of setting. United Methodists seek to re-evangelize the world so that we can reach more people, especially the young
and those from diverse backgrounds. By being relevant and vital, United Methodists will touch more lives and draw more people to Christ.
Dismantling Racism
We are committed to creating a culture of inclusiveness. We are richer with diversity and we will continue to find ways to witness with
full inclusion and the embracing of all our sisters and brothers of color.
Christ calls us to be in ministry with the poor and marginalized. Our emphasis is on “with” – standing with those who are regarded as
“the least of these,” listening to them, understanding their needs and aspirations, and working with them to achieve their goals. It also
means addressing the causes of poverty and responding in ways that lift up individuals and communities. United Methodists believe working
side by side with those striving to improve their situation is more effective long term than top-down charity.
Promoting Abundant Health
Knowing that poverty and health are intertwined, The United Methodist Church has been a key player in fighting diseases such as malaria
and AIDS and promoting initiatives that improve well-being. The church raised $75 million to provide education, infrastructure, communication
and prevention to fight malaria. The death rate from malaria in Africa has been cut in half through international efforts such as this.
The new “Abundant Health” campaign is focused on reaching one million children with lifesaving interventions such as immunization, quality
health care and access to clean water. Children everywhere need protection from disease and access to treatment.
Developing Principled Christian Leaders
The church needs leaders rooted in Christ, who have a vision for changing the world. Today’s young people have fearless hearts, vibrant
ideas and a passion for ministry. Their talents should be nurtured to shape the church’s path into the future. The church must recruit young
people — including women and people of color the world over — for ministry, equip them to be effective leaders and be open to where they want
to lead us. We also must strengthen lay members, who are ministering at every level of the church. Read more about Principled Christian Leaders